Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and dry the strawberries thoroughly.
- Cut off the stems of the strawberries.
- Using a small knife or melon baller, carefully hollow out the center of each strawberry, creating a small well for the cheesecake filling. Be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom!
- Pat the inside of the strawberries dry with a paper towel. This will help the filling adhere better.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Taste the filling and adjust the sweetness or spice level as needed.
- Transfer the cheesecake filling to a piping bag fitted with a star tip (optional, but recommended for a prettier presentation).
- Carefully pipe the filling into the hollowed-out strawberries. If you don't have a piping bag, you can use a small spoon or spatula to fill them.
- Fill each strawberry to the top, creating a nice mound of filling.
- Get creative with your toppings! Sprinkle the filled strawberries with chocolate shavings, chopped nuts, sprinkles, flaky sea salt, or drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Arrange the Deviled Strawberries on a serving platter.
- Cover the platter with plastic wrap and chill the Deviled Strawberries in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to firm up.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
Choose large, ripe, and firm strawberries. Soften the cream cheese for a smooth filling. Pat the strawberries dry before filling. Chill before serving. Get creative with toppings. You can prepare the cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Variations include chocolate-covered, spicy chocolate, peanut butter, or vegan options. Experiment with different spices or add liqueur to the filling.
