Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries are a fun twist on a classic treat! These lovely strawberries are filled with a creamy cheesecake mix that’s sweet and smooth.
They are super easy to make and perfect for parties or a sweet snack. I love how cute they look on any table! Plus, you can’t beat that sweet strawberry flavor paired with cheesecake goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: They create a simple crust that resembles cheesecake’s classic base. If you’re out of graham crackers, you can use crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even oats mixed with a bit of sugar.
Cream Cheese: The main ingredient here, it gives that creamy texture. If you need a lighter option, try using Neufchâtel cheese. For a vegan version, look for dairy-free cream cheese alternatives.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This makes the filling light and fluffy. If you’re looking to lower the fat content, you can swap with coconut cream or use a whipped topping if you’re short on time.
Strawberries: Look for large, ripe strawberries with vibrant color. If strawberries aren’t in season, try blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor. They won’t have the same look but will still be delicious!
How Do I Successfully Whip Cream for This Recipe?
Whipping cream is key to getting that light texture. Here’s how to whip it perfectly:
- Use cold heavy cream for the best results. Chilling your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping can help, too.
- Start mixing on medium speed until it starts to thicken, then increase to high speed.
- Whip just until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, or it can turn into butter!
Following these tips will help you create a creamy, airy filling that perfectly complements the strawberries. Enjoy making your Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries! They’re a treat everyone will love.
Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, divided
For the Strawberries:
- 16 large fresh strawberries with stems, washed and dried
- Fresh lemon zest, for garnish (optional)
- Strawberry sauce or coulis, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat will take you about 30 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 10 minutes to chill. So, you can have these ready to enjoy in just under an hour! Perfect for a quick dessert or a fun party treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust Base:
First, grab a bowl and mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. This will be your crust!
2. Form the Cheesecake Bases:
Now, take that crumb mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of mini muffin tin cups or silicone molds. You want to create small crust circles. Pop them into the fridge for about 10 minutes so they can set nicely.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, add the softened cream cheese and beat it until it’s smooth and creamy. Then, mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined and creamy.
4. Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip 1/2 cup of the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This means it should hold its shape well! Gently fold this whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until it’s all smooth and light.
5. Pipe the Cheesecake Layer:
Now, it’s time to fill those chilled graham cracker crusts. Use a spoon or a piping bag to evenly distribute the cheesecake filling over each crust, smoothing the tops for a nice finish.
6. Prepare the Strawberries:
Take your washed strawberries and use a small paring knife to carefully hollow out the bottoms. This helps them sit flat on your cheesecake bases.
7. Assemble:
Place each strawberry, hollowed side down, on top of your cheesecake bases. It will look like they’re nestled perfectly in the cheesecake!
8. Top with Whipped Cream:
For the finishing touch, whip the remaining 1/2 cup of heavy cream with a little powdered sugar until stiff peaks form again. Pipe a small dollop of this whipped cream on top of each strawberry.
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh lemon zest on top of the whipped cream and drizzle with strawberry sauce around the plate for a beautiful presentation. Serve these delightful treats chilled!
Enjoy this beautiful and tasty twist on strawberries and cheesecake! Perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Different Fruits for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While strawberries are a classic choice, you can use other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even mini peaches. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape on top of the cheesecake base.
Can I Make These Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cheesecake bases and filling in advance and assemble them just before serving. The filled strawberries will stay fresh in the fridge for up to an hour before the whipped cream starts to lose its shape.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within 1-2 days; just keep in mind that the strawberries may release some moisture over time.
What If I Don’t Have a Piping Bag?
No worries! If you don’t have a piping bag, simply spoon the cheesecake filling into the crusts using a teaspoon or a small spatula. It’ll still taste just as delicious, even if it’s not piped on as neatly!
