Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gently wash and thoroughly dry the strawberries. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Using a small knife or melon baller, carefully hollow out the center of each strawberry.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined and fluffy.
- Transfer the cheesecake filling to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip, or a Ziploc bag with a corner snipped off.
- Carefully pipe the cheesecake filling into each hollowed-out strawberry. Don't overfill.
- Place the filled strawberries in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to firm up.
- Melt the chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth.
- Remove the filled strawberries from the refrigerator.
- Hold each strawberry by the stem or bottom, and dip it into the melted chocolate, swirling to coat completely. Allow excess chocolate to drip off.
- Place the dipped strawberry on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Repeat with the remaining strawberries.
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with desired toppings.
- Place the baking sheet with the dipped and decorated strawberries in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
- Once the chocolate is set, serve and enjoy.
Notes
Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Dry the strawberries thoroughly to ensure the chocolate adheres properly. Don't overheat the chocolate. Chill the filling before dipping to help the strawberries hold their shape. Get creative with toppings. Store the finished strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Consider adding lemon zest, orange zest, or a tablespoon of liqueur to the cheesecake filling for a unique twist. Vegan option: use vegan cream cheese and vegan chocolate.
