If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the indulgent sweetness of chocolate-covered strawberries, look no further. Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Bites are a delectable treat that are sure to impress at any gathering. Perfect for parties, celebrations, or a sweet indulgence, these bites offer a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe and discover how to make these mouthwatering morsels.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (optional, for smoother coating)
- For the Strawberry Topping:
- 12 fresh strawberries, washed and dried
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
Directions to Perfect Cheesecake Bites
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add vanilla extract and sour cream, continuing to beat until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture into a piping bag or use a small cookie scoop to form bite-sized balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
- Chocolate Coating:
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If using vegetable oil, add it to the melted chocolate to make the coating smoother.
- Once the cheesecake balls are firm, dip each one into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully covered. Return to the parchment-lined sheet and allow the excess chocolate to drip off.
- Strawberry Topping:
- Wash and dry fresh strawberries. If desired, lightly dust them with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness.
- Place a strawberry on top of each chocolate-covered cheesecake bite while the chocolate is still soft, so it adheres well.
- Chill and Serve:
- Return the chocolate-covered cheesecake bites to the refrigerator to allow the chocolate to fully set. This will take about 30 minutes.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate, and fresh strawberries.
Tips for Success
- Chilling the Cheesecake Bites: Ensuring that the cheesecake balls are well-chilled before dipping in chocolate will make the process easier and prevent them from falling apart.
- Smooth Chocolate Coating: Adding a small amount of vegetable oil to the melted chocolate can help achieve a smoother coating and make the chocolate easier to work with.
- Decorating: For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle additional melted chocolate over the finished bites or sprinkle with edible gold flakes.
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Bites
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Bites are not only visually stunning but also offer an extraordinary blend of flavors. The creamy, tangy cheesecake filling pairs beautifully with the sweet, rich chocolate coating and the freshness of the strawberry on top. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a special treat, these bites will be a hit with everyone. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they are a perfect way to elevate any occasion.
Serving and Storage Tips for Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Bites
To ensure your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Bites remain delicious and fresh, follow these serving and storage tips:
Serving Tips
- Presentation:
- Arrange the cheesecake bites on a decorative platter or cake stand for an elegant presentation.
- Garnish with a few extra strawberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar for added visual appeal.
- Serving Temperature:
- Serve the cheesecake bites chilled. This helps maintain their firm texture and enhances the flavors.
- If they are too cold to bite into comfortably, allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
- Portion Control:
- Provide small forks or toothpicks for easy handling. This is especially useful for parties or gatherings where guests may prefer a more refined way to enjoy their treats.
- Pairing:
- These bites pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages, such as coffee, tea, or a glass of sparkling wine. Consider offering a selection of drinks to complement the rich flavors of the cheesecake bites.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration:
- Store the cheesecake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep them fresh and prevent the chocolate coating from becoming soft.
- They can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Freezing:
- For longer storage, you can freeze the cheesecake bites. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Frozen cheesecake bites can be kept for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
- Avoiding Moisture:
- Ensure the container is completely airtight to avoid moisture, which can affect the texture of the chocolate coating.
- Layering:
- If stacking the bites in a container, separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Checking Freshness:
- Before serving previously stored bites, check for any changes in texture or flavor. If the chocolate has developed a white film (bloom), it’s still safe to eat but may not look as appealing.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Bites at their best, whether you’re serving them fresh or after a period of storage. Enjoy!
1. Can I use different types of chocolate for the coating?
Yes, you can use various types of chocolate for coating your cheesecake bites. Semi-sweet chocolate is a popular choice, but you can also use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate. If using white chocolate, you might want to add a small amount of vegetable oil to make it easier to work with, as white chocolate can be thicker and more prone to burning.
2. Can I make the cheesecake filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesecake filling in advance. Once made, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before shaping into balls and coating with chocolate. This can save you time on the day of your event or gathering.
3. How can I prevent the chocolate coating from cracking?
To prevent the chocolate coating from cracking, make sure the cheesecake balls are well-chilled before dipping. Also, ensure the chocolate is melted properly and not too hot. If the chocolate is too warm, it can cause the cheesecake filling to soften and potentially crack. Adding a small amount of vegetable oil to the melted chocolate can also help achieve a smoother coating.
4. Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
Fresh strawberries are ideal for topping the cheesecake bites because they hold their shape and add a nice texture contrast. However, if using frozen strawberries, make sure they are thoroughly thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the chocolate coating. Pat them dry before placing them on top of the bites.