Description
Chocolate-covered strawberries with a creamy cheesecake filling. The perfect sweet treat!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, washed and thoroughly dried
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or vegetable shortening)
- Optional: Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or other toppings for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness or chocolate intensity as desired. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes (1 hour is better).
- Prepare Strawberries: Select large, plump strawberries. Wash and thoroughly dry them. Carefully hollow out the center of each strawberry using a paring knife or melon baller, creating a cavity for the filling. Optionally, slice a tiny bit off the bottom for stability.
- Fill Strawberries: Transfer chilled cheesecake filling to a piping bag (or zip-top bag with a corner snipped) or use a small spoon. Fill each strawberry cavity generously. Arrange filled strawberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill Filled Strawberries: Refrigerate the filled strawberries for another 30 minutes to help the filling set.
- Melt Chocolate: In a heat-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Melt in the microwave (30-second intervals, stirring in between) or over a double boiler until smooth.
- Dip Strawberries: Remove filled strawberries from the refrigerator. Dip each strawberry into the melted chocolate, coating completely or partially. Tap off excess chocolate.
- Decorate (Optional): While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with desired toppings like sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut.
- Set Chocolate: Place dipped and decorated strawberries back on the baking sheet. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
- Serve: Serve chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling.
- Thoroughly dry strawberries to help chocolate adhere.
- Be careful not to overheat the chocolate when melting.
- Keep refrigerated to prevent spoilage.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes