Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries

Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries are a delightful and elegant dessert perfect for any occasion. These bite-sized treats combine the fresh sweetness of strawberries with a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, topped with crunchy graham cracker crumbs. They are simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to create these delicious and visually appealing dessert bites.

Ingredients

• 1 pint of fresh strawberries: These will be the base of your dessert, providing a fresh and juicy contrast to the creamy filling.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich and creamy filling for the strawberries.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and a smooth texture to the filling.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling.
• 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs: Adds a classic cheesecake flavor and crunch.
• Optional toppings: Chocolate drizzle, crushed nuts, or sprinkles for extra flavor and decoration.

Instructions

Step 1:

Prepare the Strawberries:

• Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly and patting them dry.
• Using a paring knife, hull the strawberries by cutting off the green stems and creating a small hollow in the center of each strawberry. Be careful not to cut through the bottom of the strawberry.

Step 2:

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
• Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined. The filling should be smooth and slightly fluffy.

Step 3:

Fill the Strawberries:

• Using a piping bag or a small spoon, fill each hollowed-out strawberry with the cheesecake mixture.
• Be generous with the filling, allowing it to slightly overflow from the top of the strawberry for an appealing look.

Step 4:

Add the Graham Cracker Crumbs:

• Once all the strawberries are filled, sprinkle the tops with graham cracker crumbs. This adds a nice crunch and gives the strawberries a classic cheesecake taste.

Step 5:

Optional Toppings:

• For an extra touch of indulgence, consider drizzling the filled strawberries with melted chocolate, or adding crushed nuts or colorful sprinkles.
• These toppings not only enhance the flavor but also make the strawberries look even more festive and appealing.

Step 6:

Chill and Serve:

• Place the filled strawberries on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• This allows the cheesecake filling to set and the flavors to meld together.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve the Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries chilled for the best flavor and texture. They make a great addition to any dessert table or party platter.
• If you want to prepare them in advance, you can store the filled strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• For a fancier presentation, you can arrange the strawberries on a platter and garnish with mint leaves or additional drizzles of chocolate.

Helpful Notes

• Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.
• Use a piping bag with a star tip for a decorative and professional-looking finish when filling the strawberries.
• Be careful not to overfill the strawberries, as the filling may spill out when you pick them up.

Tips from well-known chefs

• Chef Nigella Lawson suggests adding a pinch of lemon zest to the cheesecake filling for a fresh and tangy twist.
• Chef Ina Garten recommends using high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor in your cheesecake filling.
• Chef Gordon Ramsay advises using fresh, ripe strawberries for the best taste and presentation.