Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs to the mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Blend in sour cream, heavy cream, flour, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until everything is fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in chopped strawberries to the cheesecake batter.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Before serving, drizzle strawberry sauce over the top of the cheesecake for a gorgeous finish.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving this cheesecake is where the fun really begins! You can plate it beautifully by adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder or little chocolate shavings for extra flair. Fresh mint leaves can offer a nice contrast when placed on top. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to create an indulgent dessert experience. It’s also delightful alongside a cup of coffee or tea!
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (and let’s be honest, that’s a big if!), it’s important to store your cheesecake properly. Wrap it closely in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the fridge. This dessert is good for about 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the cheesecake for longer storage; just remember to wrap it tightly before freezing!
Tips for success
- Make sure your cream cheese is completely softened before mixing for the creamiest texture.
- Don’t rush the cooling and refrigeration process — letting it chill overnight yields the best results.
- For an even richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa.
Different ways to try it
Want to switch things up? There are plenty of creative twists you can put on this cheesecake! Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top or incorporating nuts into your crust for added crunch. You could even swap strawberries for other fruits, like raspberries or blueberries, depending on what you have on hand.
Your questions answered
What’s the prep time for this cheesecake?
The total prep time is about 30-45 minutes, but don’t forget to factor in the cooling and chilling time, which can take at least 4 hours or overnight.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Certainly! Low-fat cream cheese can work as a substitute in this recipe, but it may alter the texture slightly.
How should I store this cheesecake?
Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. If you want to store for longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months for the best quality.
With this guide, you’ll be able to create a luscious red velvet strawberry cheesecake that’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite!
