Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: No baking required, and the ingredients are simple and accessible.
• Customizable: Add your favorite flavors, toppings, or garnishes to make them your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These strawberries fit seamlessly into any event, from casual gatherings to elegant celebrations.
• Portion-Controlled: Bite-sized portions make them a guilt-free indulgence.
• Kid-Friendly: Fun to make and eat, these treats are a hit with both kids and adults.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Chill time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 20-25 stuffed strawberries

Nutritional Information (per stuffed strawberry)

• Calories: 60
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Strawberries:

• 20-25 large fresh strawberries

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream (optional for lighter texture)

Optional Garnishes:

• Graham cracker crumbs
• Melted chocolate (dark, milk, or white)
• Fresh mint leaves
• Sprinkles

Special Equipment

• Paring knife or strawberry huller
• Piping bag with a star tip (or resealable plastic bag with the tip cut off)
• Small bowl for garnishes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

1. Wash the strawberries thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Use a paring knife or strawberry huller to remove the stems and core the centers, creating a small cavity for the filling. Take care not to cut all the way through the bottom.
3. If necessary, slice a small piece off the bottom of each strawberry to help them stand upright. Arrange them on a serving tray or plate.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined and slightly fluffy.
3. (Optional) For a lighter texture, gradually fold in the heavy whipping cream, beating until the mixture is smooth and pipeable.

Step 3: Fill the Strawberries

1. Transfer the cheesecake filling to a piping bag fitted with a star tip, or use a resealable plastic bag with one corner cut off.
2. Pipe the filling into each strawberry, swirling it to create an elegant design.

Step 4: Garnish and Chill

1. Sprinkle the tops with graham cracker crumbs for a classic cheesecake touch.
2. (Optional) Drizzle with melted chocolate, add fresh mint leaves, or top with sprinkles for added flair.
3. Refrigerate the strawberries for at least 15 minutes to allow the filling to set before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Arrange the chilled strawberries on a serving platter and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Strawberries

Fresh, large strawberries are ideal for this recipe. Look for berries that are firm, ripe, and evenly red for the best presentation and flavor.

Cream Cheese

Full-fat cream cheese provides the rich, tangy base for the cheesecake filling. Soften it at room temperature for easier mixing.

Powdered Sugar

Powdered sugar sweetens the filling while maintaining a smooth texture. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences.

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling, adding warmth and depth. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.

Graham Cracker Crumbs

Crushed graham crackers mimic the classic cheesecake crust, adding a crunchy contrast to the creamy filling.

Technique Tips

• Core with Care: Avoid over-hollowing the strawberries to keep them sturdy enough to hold the filling.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the strawberries helps the filling firm up and enhances the flavors.
• Use a Sturdy Bag: A piping bag with a star tip creates a professional look, but a resealable plastic bag works in a pinch.
• Prepare Just Before Serving: For the freshest presentation, assemble the strawberries close to serving time.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Chocolate-Dipped Bases: Dip the bottoms of the strawberries in melted chocolate before filling for an indulgent twist.
• Mini Cheesecake Towers: Stack a second strawberry on top of the filling for a double-decker effect.
• Dessert Skewers: Thread stuffed strawberries onto skewers with marshmallows, brownie bites, or cubes of pound cake.

Additional Tips for Success

• Select Even-Sized Berries: This ensures a uniform appearance and even filling distribution.
• Prep Ahead: Core the strawberries and prepare the filling in advance. Assemble them just before serving.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add lemon zest, almond extract, or a splash of liqueur to the filling for variety.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries

Mix 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the cheesecake filling and drizzle with melted chocolate.

Lemon Cheesecake Strawberries

Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to the filling for a citrusy twist.

Nutty Crunch Topping

Top the filled strawberries with chopped nuts like pecans, almonds, or pistachios for added texture.

Dairy-Free Version

Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped cream for a vegan-friendly dessert.

Keto-Friendly

Replace powdered sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like powdered erythritol and skip the graham cracker crumbs.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing

• Core and fill the strawberries, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Thaw in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Storage

• Store filled strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• For the best texture, enjoy them the same day they’re prepared.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter filling.
• Skip the powdered sugar and sweeten the filling with honey or maple syrup.
• Serve the strawberries without graham cracker crumbs for a lower-calorie option.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Tea Parties: Pair with finger sandwiches and scones for an elegant spread.
• Brunch Buffets: Add them to a fruit platter or yogurt parfait bar for a sweet touch.
• Dessert Trays: Combine with mini cheesecakes, brownies, or macarons for a dessert assortment.

Special Equipment

• Paring knife for coring the strawberries
• Piping bag for filling
• Small bowls for garnishes

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Frozen strawberries are not recommended as they release too much moisture and lose their firmness.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, but for the freshest presentation, assemble them no more than 4-6 hours before serving.

3. How can I make the filling thicker?

If the filling is too thin, add more cream cheese or chill it before piping.

4. What can I use instead of a piping bag?

A resealable plastic bag with the tip cut off works as a simple alternative.

5. Can I use flavored cream cheese?

Yes! Strawberry, chocolate, or lemon-flavored cream cheese adds a unique twist.

6. How do I prevent the strawberries from toppling over?

Slice a small piece off the bottom of each strawberry to create a flat base.

7. Can I use a different fruit?

Yes! Hollowed-out apples, pears, or even large blackberries can be stuffed with the cheesecake filling.

8. What’s the best way to crush graham crackers?

Place them in a resealable bag and crush with a rolling pin or pulse in a food processor.