Cheesecake deviled strawberries are a tasty treat! They feature fresh strawberries filled with a creamy cheesecake mix that’s sweet and smooth. Yum!
These little bites are perfect for parties or just because you want a snack. I love how easy they are to whip up—just mix and fill, and enjoy your sweet creation!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Choose large, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and presentation. If strawberries are not in season, you can use blueberries or raspberries, though the presentation will be different. Try to select the freshest fruits available!
Cream Cheese: Regular cream cheese provides that classic cheesecake flavor. For a lighter option, try using low-fat cream cheese or even mascarpone for a unique twist. Both will have a slightly different texture.
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens the cheesecake filling without the grittiness of granulated sugar. If you want a healthier alternative, consider using stevia or another sugar substitute, but adjust to taste since they can be sweeter.
Heavy Cream: This contributes to a rich, fluffy texture. For a dairy-free version, substitute it with coconut cream or a plant-based whipping cream. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit!
Chocolate Cookie Crumbs: I love using crushed Oreos for their rich flavor, but you can use any chocolate cookie or even graham cracker crumbs for a different base. Adjust according to your taste preferences!
How Do I Hollow Out Strawberries Without Damaging Them?
Hollowing out strawberries can be tricky, but with a little care, it’s easy! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with fresh strawberries that are firm and ripe for easy handling.
- Using a small paring knife or a strawberry huller, make a small cut at the bottom of the strawberry.
- Work carefully around the inside to scoop out the center. Aim to leave the walls intact so you have a stable shell.
- Practice makes perfect! If you mess a few up, don’t worry—this will still be delicious!
Be gentle, and you’ll end up with beautiful strawberries ready to be filled!
How to Make Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, large and ripe
- 4 oz (112g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chocolate cookie crumbs (such as crushed Oreos or chocolate wafer cookies)
- Optional: small edible flowers or fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of active preparation time. After filling the strawberries, you’ll want to chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. So, in total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes before you can dig in and enjoy these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberries:
Start by washing the strawberries gently under cool water. Pat them dry carefully with a paper towel. Next, take a small paring knife or a strawberry huller and carefully remove the stem and hollow out the center of each strawberry from the bottom. Be gentle and don’t cut all the way through the top. You want them to hold their shape!
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a medium bowl, take the softened cream cheese and beat it with a hand mixer until it’s nice and smooth. Once smooth, add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix again until everything is well combined and creamy. This mix is where the cheesecake flavor comes from!
3. Whip the Heavy Cream:
Now, grab a separate bowl and pour in the heavy cream. Using a hand mixer, whip the cream until you see stiff peaks forming. This means it’s perfectly whipped! Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until it’s all blended and there are no lumps. This will make your filling light and fluffy.
4. Fill the Strawberries:
Using a piping bag or a spoon, carefully fill each hollowed strawberry with the cheesecake mixture. Make sure to fill them generously for that delicious cheesecake bite!
5. Add the Crust Effect:
To give your strawberries a nice crust, dip the bottom of each filled strawberry into the chocolate cookie crumbs or sprinkle the crumbs over the bottom. This step adds a delightful crunch!
6. Chill and Garnish:
Place the filled strawberries on a serving plate and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the filling set. When you’re ready to serve, you can garnish them with little edible flowers or fresh mint leaves on top for a beautiful finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once chilled, serve these delightful cheesecake deviled strawberries and watch them disappear! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese Instead?
Yes, you can definitely use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of this recipe! The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How Do I Store Leftover Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Enjoy them cold for the best flavor! However, they are best enjoyed fresh.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and hollow out the strawberries a few hours in advance. Just wait to fill them until about 30 minutes before serving for the freshest taste!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Besides chocolate cookie crumbs, you can sprinkle in some crushed nuts, graham cracker crumbs, or even drizzle a bit of melted chocolate over the top for extra flavor!
