With its luscious, creamy filling and decadent layers, this Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake is truly a showstopper for any dessert table. Imagine a crispy chocolate cookie crust, silky chocolate cheesecake, and vibrant ribbons of fresh strawberries all nestled beneath a glossy layer of strawberry jam. Each bite delivers a delightful medley of rich cocoa and bright berry notes that make this cheesecake as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether it’s for a celebration or simply to treat yourself, this recipe brings together classic flavors in a way that feels both irresistible and delightfully special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every component of this Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake is thoughtfully chosen to deliver maximum flavor and the perfect balance of textures. With only a handful of simple, familiar ingredients, you’ll create a dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes—each ingredient playing its own starring role.

Chocolate cookie crumbs: These make the perfect, deeply flavored base, especially if you use classic Oreos.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter brings everything together for a rich, cohesive crust.
Cream cheese: Softened, it whips up ultra-smooth for that signature creamy cheesecake texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling without overpowering the chocolate or strawberry flavors.
Sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness, giving the cheesecake a light, luscious finish.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash enhances everything, letting the chocolate and berries shine.
Semi-sweet chocolate: Melted and swirled in, it introduces a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate layer.
Large eggs: These bind the filling and give your cheesecake its beautiful structure—add gently for best results.
Fresh strawberries: Sliced on top, they bring juicy brightness, flavor, and stunning color.
Strawberry jam: Warmed up, it glazes the strawberries and gives a gorgeous, fruity finish.
Whipped cream and chocolate shavings (optional): For an extra flourish that takes your presentation from simple to spectacular.

How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter in a bowl, ensuring every crumb is moistened. Press firmly into the base of a 9-inch springform pan, creating an even layer. A flat-bottomed glass works wonders here for pressing it down. Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes, letting the chocolate aroma fill your kitchen, then set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Chocolate Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth—a stand mixer or hand mixer will make quick work of this step. Add the sugar, sour cream, and vanilla extract, blending until creamy and unified. Next, pour in the melted, slightly cooled semi-sweet chocolate, turning the color of the batter into a dreamy, chocolatey canvas. Each egg goes in one at a time, mixed in gently on low speed so the filling stays delicate and doesn’t become overly airy (which can cause cracks). Now you’re ready for the magic—pour the luscious chocolate filling over your baked crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center will still have a subtle jiggle—like watching Jell-O after a gentle nudge. Once baked, turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake slowly cool for 1 hour in the gentle warmth. This step is crucial for that dreamy, crack-free finish. Finally, move the cheesecake to the fridge to chill thoroughly for at least 4 hours, or overnight, letting all the flavors come together and the texture set perfectly.

Step 4: Add the Strawberry Topping

Just before serving, artistically arrange fresh sliced strawberries across the top of your chilled cheesecake. Warm the strawberry jam just enough so it’s pourable, then lovingly spoon it over the berries. This not only adds gorgeous gloss and irresistible berry flavor, but also keeps the strawberries lusciously fresh and vibrant.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

If you want to go all out (and why not?), finish your Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake with billowy swirls of whipped cream and a sprinkling of chocolate shavings. Now, step back and admire your masterpiece—then dive in and savor every bite.

How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

Garnishes

For that bakery-worthy look, pile on the whipped cream in pretty rosettes around the edges of your Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake and sprinkle with curls of chocolate or a handful of mini chocolate chips. Try a few mint leaves too for a fresh pop of color. Your guests will be swooning before the first forkful.

Side Dishes

Since this cheesecake is rich and indulgent, simple accompaniments like freshly brewed coffee, a pot of tea, or a crisp glass of sparkling wine make wonderful pairings. For a full dessert plate, consider serving with extra fresh berries or a few chocolate-dipped strawberries—playing up the main flavors while keeping things elegant.

Creative Ways to Present

For weddings, birthdays, or any celebration, slice your Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake into neat wedges and plate with artistic drizzles of strawberry sauce and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. Or, for smaller gatherings, try making mini cheesecakes in muffin tins for individual treats—everyone loves a personal-sized dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake should be covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days for peak freshness—just be sure to place a piece of parchment between slices if you’re stacking them to prevent sticking.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze your cheesecake for longer storage. Chill it thoroughly first, then wrap individual slices (or the whole cake, without toppings) tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. Place in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and add the strawberries and jam just before serving.

Reheating

While cheesecake is traditionally served chilled, if you prefer a slightly softer and creamier texture, let a slice sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it can affect the texture. Just let patience have its delicious reward!

FAQs

How do I prevent my Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake from cracking?

The secret is gentle mixing and slow cooling. Don’t overbeat your eggs, use a water bath if possible, and let your cheesecake cool inside a turned-off oven with the door cracked before transferring to the fridge. This helps minimize dramatic temperature changes that cause cracks.

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for the topping?

It’s possible, but fresh strawberries offer the best texture and appearance for topping your Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture making the topping runny.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the crust. Double-check that all your other ingredients are gluten-free as well, and you’ll have a fantastic gluten-free Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake.

What’s the best way to melt chocolate for the filling?

The easiest method is to microwave in 15- to 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until the chocolate is smooth and glossy. You can also use a double boiler. Be sure to let the chocolate cool slightly before adding to the cream cheese mixture so it doesn’t seize or curdle.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will yield a slightly sweeter, creamier taste, while semi-sweet or even dark chocolate offers deeper cocoa notes. Choose the chocolate that makes your taste buds happiest—that’s the beauty of homemade cheesecake.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to create a memorable dessert that combines wow factor with unforgettable flavor, you can’t go wrong with this Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels as good to bake as it does to share. Gather your loved ones, grab a fork, and indulge in a slice of pure bliss—trust me, you’ll want to make this one again and again!

Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 6 hours
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the decadent flavors of chocolate and strawberries with this rich and creamy Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake. A luscious dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with a velvety chocolate filling, all nestled on a buttery chocolate cookie crust. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving a luxurious treat.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, finely crushed)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

24 oz cream cheese, softened (3 packages, 8 oz each)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
3 large eggs

For Topping:

1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup strawberry jam, warmed
Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
Prepare the crust: Combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan and bake for 8–10 minutes. Cool.
Make the filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, sour cream, vanilla, and melted chocolate. Mix well. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
Bake: Pour filling over crust. Bake for 55–65 minutes until set but slightly jiggly. Cool in the oven, then chill for at least 4 hours.
Finish: Top with sliced strawberries, warmed jam, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings before serving.

Notes

To prevent cracks, use a water bath while baking or place a pan of hot water in the oven.
For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate or add cocoa powder to the filling.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American