Description
Rich chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake blends creamy New York-style cheesecake with luscious chocolate and fresh strawberries. Sweet layers create an irresistible dessert that delights guests without overwhelming their palate.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 (8 oz/226 g) packages cream cheese
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 oz (226 g) semi-sweet chocolate
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsps cocoa powder
- 1 pound (454 g) fresh strawberries
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup strawberry preserves
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Crust Preparation: Pulverize graham crackers and blend with melted butter, pressing firmly into a lined springform pan, then toast in a preheated oven until golden and crisp.
- Strawberry Reduction: Gently simmer fresh strawberries, reducing to a concentrated, intensely flavored puree that will infuse the cheesecake with vibrant essence.
- Cheesecake Base: Whip cream cheese until silky, gradually incorporating sugar and flour, then fold in sour cream, reduced strawberry puree, and vanilla extract to create a luxurious foundation.
- Batter Composition: Introduce eggs one at a time, maintaining a uniform texture, and subtly tint with food coloring for a delicate pink hue.
- Precision Baking: Wrap springform pan in aluminum foil, place in a water bath, and bake at a low temperature to ensure a creamy, unblemished surface.
- Cooling Process: Allow cheesecake to cool gradually at room temperature, then refrigerate to achieve optimal consistency.
- Ganache Crafting: Heat cream and pour over dark chocolate chips, whisking until smooth and glossy, then elegantly drizzle across the chilled cheesecake.
- Finishing Touches: Whip heavy cream to billowing peaks, pipe decorative rosettes around the perimeter, and crown with chocolate-dipped strawberries for a stunning presentation.
Notes
- Crush Crackers Carefully: Use a food processor or rolling pin to create fine, even crumbs for a compact and sturdy crust.
- Prevent Soggy Base: Toast the graham cracker crust briefly to enhance flavor and create a moisture-resistant foundation.
- Master Smooth Filling: Bring cream cheese to room temperature and beat slowly to avoid lumps and achieve a silky texture.
- Bake with Precision: Use a water bath and low temperature to prevent cracks and ensure a creamy, even cheesecake consistency.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 37 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 22 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg