Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

This Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake is rich, creamy, and made to match the image exactly, with a deep chocolate cookie crust, a smooth vanilla-chocolate cheesecake filling, and a dramatic topping of fresh strawberries, chocolate curls, and glossy chocolate drizzle. It’s an elegant dessert that looks bakery-style but is easy enough to make at home. The contrast between the creamy cheesecake, juicy strawberries, and dark chocolate makes every bite indulgent and perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or dinner parties.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Crust

  • 2 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (Oreo-style, filling removed)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup melted semi-sweet chocolate, slightly cooled

For the Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries (whole and sliced)
  • 1/2 cup chocolate curls or chocolate chips
  • 1/3 cup chocolate ganache or chocolate syrup

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).Mix chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until fully combined.Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan.Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and creamy.Add sugar and mix until fully incorporated.Add sour cream and vanilla, mixing on low speed.Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined.Pour in the melted chocolate and gently mix until smooth and evenly colored.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the cooled crust.Smooth the top and tap the pan gently to remove air bubbles.Place the pan on the center rack and bake for 55–65 minutes, until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles.Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.

Step 4: Chill

Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature.Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set.

Step 5: Decorate

Arrange whole strawberries in the center and sliced strawberries around the edges.Sprinkle chocolate curls generously over the top.Drizzle chocolate ganache or syrup over the strawberries and edges for the dramatic finish shown in the image.

Cooking Notes

  • Always use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth texture
  • Do not overmix once eggs are added to avoid cracks
  • Cooling slowly in the oven prevents sinking
  • Chill fully before decorating for clean edges
  • Use fresh, dry strawberries so the topping stays glossy

Variation

  • Use a brownie crust instead of cookie crumbs for extra richness
  • Add a thin strawberry jam layer under the topping
  • Mix mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter
  • Use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter flavor
  • Add a white chocolate drizzle for contrast

Tips

  • Line the pan bottom with parchment for easy release
  • Wipe the knife between slices for neat servings
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator
  • Cheesecake tastes even better the next day
  • Add toppings just before serving for the freshest look

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve chilled with extra chocolate drizzle on the plate
  • Perfect dessert for Valentine’s Day or romantic dinners
  • Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts
  • Pair with coffee or espresso
  • Garnish plates with extra strawberries for presentation

Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 65 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 35 minutes

Nutritional Info (Approximate per slice)

Calories: 520
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 36g
Sugar: 31g

FAQs

Is this cheesecake good for Valentine’s Day?

  • Yes, the strawberries and chocolate make it a perfect Valentine dessert.


Can I make it ahead of time?

  • Yes, it can be made up to 2 days in advance.


Can I freeze this cheesecake?

  • Yes, freeze without toppings and decorate after thawing.


Why did my cheesecake crack?

  • Overmixing or rapid cooling can cause cracks.


Can I use frozen strawberries?

  • Fresh strawberries are best for the topping.

Conclusion

Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that looks just like the image, with rich layers, fresh fruit, and a glossy chocolate finish. It’s creamy, indulgent, and perfect for holidays, celebrations, or anytime you want an impressive homemade dessert.

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