Step-by-step instructions
- Wash and Dry: Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Remove Tops: Slice off the green tops of each strawberry to create a flat base.
- Hollow Out: Using a small knife or a strawberry huller, gently hollow out the centers, making enough room for the filling.
- Beat the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Fill the Strawberries: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling into each hollowed strawberry, filling them generously.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the crushed graham crackers over the tops for that classic cheesecake crust flavor. If you wish, drizzle melted chocolate for an extra treat.
- Chill: Place the stuffed strawberries in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the filling firm up.
Best ways to enjoy it
These stuffed strawberries are great on their own, but there are creative ways to serve them. Consider serving alongside:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess.
- A fresh fruit salad that includes mint for a refreshing twist.
- A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce to enhance the dessert experience further.
How to store & freeze
To keep your Stuffed Cheesecake Strawberries fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay delicious for up to two days.
- Freezing: While you can freeze the strawberries, keep in mind that their texture may change upon thawing, making them more suitable for smoothies than as a fresh dessert. If you do freeze them, prepare the cheesecake filling fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.
Helpful cooking tips
- Choose firm strawberries: Ensure the strawberries are large and firm for easy hollowing and holding the filling.
- Use a piping bag: If you want to give the strawberries a professional finish, use a piping bag to fill them neatly.
- Experiment with flavors: You can add citrus zest or a splash of almond extract to the filling for unique flavor variations.
Creative twists
- Chocolate-dipped: Prepare your stuffed strawberries and dip just the tip in melted chocolate for an even more indulgent treat.
- Nut butters: Mix a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter into the cheesecake filling for a nutty twist.
- Flavor swaps: Use flavored cream cheese (like strawberry or chocolate) to change up the filling profile.
Common questions
What’s the prep time for Stuffed Cheesecake Strawberries?
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day before and just keep them chilled in the refrigerator until your event.
How can I make these vegan-friendly?
For a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and ensure your powdered sugar is vegan. You can also experiment with vegan whipped toppings!
