Name: Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 5 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 40 Nilla wafers, crushed; 3 Tbsp butter, melted; 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 Tbsp vanilla extract; 3 eggs; 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened; 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 pint strawberries, sliced; 2 oz semisweet chocolate, melted

If you love the dreamy combination of rich cheesecake and luscious fresh fruit, you’re going to adore this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe. It perfectly balances a creamy, velvety cheesecake base with a crunchy vanilla wafer crust, all topped with a light, fluffy cream cheese mousse, fresh strawberries, and a decadent drizzle of melted chocolate. This dessert is an absolute crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of elegance and joy to any occasion, plus it’s surprisingly simple to make at home!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl with a textured rim sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a crumbly mixture of brown sugar that has a coarse, sandy texture. Resting inside the bowl is a wooden spoon with a natural grain pattern, partially covered by the brown sugar. Next to the bowl is a crumpled, off-white linen cloth adding soft texture to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe is all about using simple, quality ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component, from the buttery crust to the creamy filling and fresh fruit topping, plays an essential role in making this dessert truly special.

Nilla wafers, 40 crushed: These form the crispy, sweet base that adds crunch and contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers.
Butter, 3 Tbsp melted: Binds the crust ingredients together, adding richness and that perfect buttery flavor.
Cream cheese, 3 (8 oz) packages softened: The star of the cheesecake layer, delivering smoothness and tanginess.
Sugar, 3/4 cup: Sweetens the cheesecake filling just right without overpowering.
Vanilla extract, 1 Tbsp: Adds warmth and depth to every bite of the filling.
Eggs, 3: Help set the cheesecake with a creamy yet firm texture.
Cream cheese, 1 (8 oz) package softened: For the mousse topping, brings extra creaminess.
Cool Whip, 1 (8 oz) tub thawed: Lightens the mousse, giving it a fluffy, airy feel.
Sugar, 1/4 cup: Sweetens the mousse topping, balancing the tang of cream cheese.
Vanilla extract, 1 tsp: Enhances the flavor of the mousse layer subtly.
Strawberries, 1 pint sliced: Fresh, juicy, and vibrant, these are the highlight of the topping.
Semisweet chocolate, 2 oz melted: Drizzled over the fruit for a rich, elegant finish.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°. Combine the crushed Nilla wafers with melted butter until everything is nicely moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an ungreased 9 or 10-inch springform pan, creating an even, compact base that will bake up crisp and flavorful to hold the creamy cheesecake.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Using a mixer, beat the three softened cream cheese packages along with 3/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon vanilla until smooth and creamy. Then, reduce your mixer speed to low and incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing just until fully combined. This method ensures a silky, lump-free filling that bakes up dense and luscious.

Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the rich cheesecake batter over your prepared crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes until the center is mostly set. Don’t worry if it cracks slightly on top—this is totally normal and won’t affect the taste. Once baked, run a knife around the pan edges to loosen the cake and let it cool completely right inside the pan.

Step 4: Prepare the Mousse Topping

While your cheesecake cools, whip up the mousse topping. Beat the remaining 8 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until smooth. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip without overmixing; you want to keep it light and airy. Spread this mousse delicately over the cooled cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, better yet, overnight to let it set beautifully.

Step 5: Add Strawberries and Chocolate

Once chilled, top your cheesecake with the fresh sliced strawberries. Finally, melt the semisweet chocolate and drizzle it over the strawberries in an elegant pattern. This finishing touch adds a rich bittersweet contrast that marries perfectly with the tangy cheesecake and fruity topping.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Your Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe is now ready to slice and devour! Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between slices for perfect cuts. Serve chilled and enjoy every dreamy, creamy bite.

How to Serve Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

A round cheesecake with a light golden crust at the bottom, topped with a thick creamy white layer, and covered with even, glossy red strawberry slices arranged in close rows on the top. The cake sits on a white marbled textured surface with a white plate filled with extra sliced strawberries and a spoon to the left. To the right, a green bowl with dark sauce and a beige linen cloth are placed casually. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh strawberries are the star garnish here, adding vibrant color and juicy freshness. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or add a mint leaf on each slice for a burst of green and texture contrast. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the strawberries also gives a charming snowy effect.

Side Dishes

This cheesecake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent duo. If you want to keep it lighter, a simple glass of sparkling rosé or a cup of freshly brewed coffee will complement the rich flavors nicely and balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, serve your cheesecake on a decorative cake stand with extra strawberries and chocolate shavings scattered around the plate. You could also create individual mini cheesecakes in small jars or ramekins, layering the crust, filling, and toppings for a cute, gift-worthy dessert option perfect for parties or special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cheesecake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep the mousse topping’s delicate texture intact by not stacking anything on top.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the cheesecake, wrap it securely with plastic wrap and then a layer of foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and add the strawberry and chocolate toppings fresh after thawing for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best enjoyed cold, so reheating isn’t typically necessary. If you prefer your cheesecake slightly less chilled, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance the creamy texture without melting the mousse or strawberries.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen strawberries for the topping?

Fresh strawberries are ideal because they hold their shape and texture well, but if you only have frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid extra moisture that could affect the cheesecake’s topping.

What type of chocolate is best for drizzling?

Semisweet chocolate is perfect because it adds a nice balance of sweetness and slight bitterness that enhances the strawberries and cheesecake without being too rich or overpowering.

Can I substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream?

Yes, homemade whipped cream is a wonderful substitute that will give a fresh, less processed taste and texture. Just be sure to fold it gently into the cream cheese mixture to keep it light and fluffy.

Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

Using a springform pan helps with easy removal of the cheesecake without damaging its edges, especially since this recipe has multiple layers. If you don’t have one, a regular round pan lined with parchment paper works, but be extra careful when slicing to avoid breaking the cake.

What can I do if my cheesecake cracks during baking?

Cracking is normal and doesn’t affect taste. To minimize it, avoid overbaking and don’t rapidly cool the cheesecake. You can cover cracks with the mousse topping, fresh strawberries, and chocolate drizzle so no one will even notice!

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe truly brings together the best of all worlds—a buttery crust, rich and creamy cheesecake, velvety mousse topping, fresh fruit, and luscious chocolate drizzle. It’s a dessert that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself after a long day. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how magical these flavors are together!