Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes are the ultimate dessert for any occasion. Their delightful combination of rich chocolate and sweet strawberry makes them a perfect treat for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or just because you want something delicious. These mini cheesecakes are not only adorable but also easy to make ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy them at your leisure.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Portable: These mini cheesecakes are easy to transport, making them great for parties or picnics.
- Versatile Flavor: The chocolate and strawberry combination appeals to both kids and adults.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare these cheesecakes in advance and chill until ready to serve.
- Adorable Presentation: Each mini cheesecake is topped with a fresh strawberry, adding a charming touch.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry items, this recipe is easy to follow and budget-friendly.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make the process of making Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mini cheesecake pan
- Food processor
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mini cheesecake pan: Essential for creating perfectly shaped mini cheesecakes that hold together well.
- Food processor: Makes quick work of grinding graham crackers for the crust.
- Electric mixer: Ensures your filling is smooth and fluffy without much effort.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 sleeve (9 cookies, 137 grams) graham crackers
– 3 tablespoons (43 grams) REAL Seal® unsalted butter, melted
– 12 ounces (340 grams) REAL Seal® cream cheese, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (140 grams) seedless strawberry preserves
– Red gel food coloring, if desired
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup (85 grams) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup REAL Seal® heavy cream
– 12 small strawberries
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 12-cup mini cheesecake pan with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- Place the graham crackers in the bowl of a food processor and pulse until finely ground.
- Add in the melted butter and pulse until moistened.
- Divide the mixture among the cavities of the cheesecake pan, about 1 heaping tablespoon in each.
- Firmly press the crumbs into the bottom of each cavity. A shot glass or other small object makes this easier.
- Bake the crusts for about 5 minutes, or until fragrant. Remove from oven and reduce temperature to 325°F.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar on medium-high speed using an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the strawberry preserves, food coloring (if using), vanilla extract, and fine salt. Beat until smooth.
- Add in one large egg and beat until just combined.
- Divide this mixture among each cavity in your mini cheesecake pan.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for about 18 minutes or until set. Allow cooling to room temperature before covering with plastic wrap. Let chill for at least three hours or overnight.
Step 5: Make the Topping
- Place the chocolate chips in a medium heatproof bowl.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream just until simmering.
- Pour over the chocolate chips and let sit for three minutes before stirring until melted and smooth.
- Allow it to cool slightly to thicken.
Step 6: Assemble Your Cheesecakes
Top each cooled cheesecake with ganache, then press a small strawberry into each one before serving or storing in the fridge for up to one day.
Enjoy these delightful Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes as they bring joy to every occasion!
How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes
Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes are delightful treats that can be served in various ways to enhance their appeal. Whether for a special occasion or a casual gathering, these cheesecakes are versatile and can impress your guests.
Individual Cups
- Serve in mini cups – Present each cheesecake in a small cup for easy serving and a fun presentation.
Garnished with Fresh Fruit
- Top with fresh strawberries – Place a fresh strawberry on each cheesecake for added color and flavor.
Pair with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream – A creamy topping complements the flavors and adds a light texture.
Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle with extra chocolate – Enhance the chocolate flavor by drizzling melted chocolate over the top before serving.
Festive Platter
- Arrange on a dessert platter – Present the cheesecakes on a beautiful platter for an elegant touch at parties.
How to Perfect Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes
To achieve the best results with your Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients – This ensures that your cream cheese blends smoothly, creating a creamy filling without lumps.
- Don’t overmix – Mixing too much can incorporate air into the batter, leading to cracks during baking. Mix until just combined.
- Chill properly – Allowing the cheesecakes to chill for several hours enhances their flavor and texture, making them taste even better.
- Check doneness carefully – The cheesecakes should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool.
- Experiment with flavors – Feel free to add other flavors like lemon zest or almond extract to customize your mini cheesecakes.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes
When serving Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideas:
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cheesecakes.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels – The salty crunch of pretzels pairs perfectly with sweet chocolate desserts.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – Creamy vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that enhances the flavors of strawberry and chocolate.
- Coffee or Espresso – A warm cup of coffee brings out the flavors in both chocolate and strawberry, making it an ideal pairing.
- Cheeseboard – Include cheeses that complement sweet desserts, such as brie or goat cheese, for an interesting contrast.
- Mini Pastries – Offer an assortment of mini pastries like eclairs or fruit tarts alongside for variety on your dessert table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.
- Overmixing the filling: Combining the ingredients too much can lead to a dense texture. Mix just until smooth to keep your cheesecakes light and fluffy.
- Skipping the chilling time: Patience is key! Allowing the mini cheesecakes to chill for at least 3 hours helps them set properly. Skipping this step may result in a runny consistency.
- Not greasing the pan: Failing to grease the cheesecake pan can make it difficult to remove the mini cheesecakes. Always use nonstick spray for easy release.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Each oven heats differently; make sure your oven is preheated correctly. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and texture.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your filling. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth mixture.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 1 day in the refrigerator.
- If topped with ganache, consume them within that timeframe for optimal taste.
Freezing Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes
- Freeze unadorned mini cheesecakes for up to 2 months.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap before freezing.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to enjoy.
Reheating Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the cheesecakes on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, heat on low power for 15-20 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place them in a covered pan on low heat, allowing gentle warming while keeping moisture intact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits for Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes?
Yes! You can substitute strawberry preserves with other fruit preserves like raspberry or blueberry for different flavors.
How do I prevent cracks on my mini cheesecakes?
Make sure not to overbake them. Remove from the oven once they are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Can I make these mini cheesecakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cheesecakes can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of graham crackers?
You can use crushed cookies like Oreos or vanilla wafers as an alternative crust base.
How do I achieve a richer chocolate flavor?
Incorporate dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet ones, or add cocoa powder into the filling mixture for an extra chocolate boost.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes are not only delightful but also versatile. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion, they allow endless customization options such as flavored ganaches or different fruit toppings. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll surely impress your friends and family!
Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes
Indulge in the delightful world of Chocolate Strawberry Mini Cheesecakes, a perfect dessert that combines rich chocolate and sweet strawberry flavors. These charming mini treats are ideal for any occasion—from romantic dinners to birthdays or simply when you crave something sweet. Their adorable size makes them easy to serve and transport, while their make-ahead convenience allows you to enjoy these delicious desserts at your leisure. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll impress friends and family with this crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 mini cheesecakes 1x
Ingredients
- 9 graham crackers
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 12 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup seedless strawberry preserves
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a mini cheesecake pan.
- In a food processor, blend graham crackers until fine, mix with melted butter, and press into the pan.
- Bake crusts for 5 minutes, then lower the oven temperature to 325°F.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth; mix in strawberry preserves, egg, and vanilla.
- Divide filling among crusts and bake for about 18 minutes until set. Chill for at least three hours.
- Make ganache by heating heavy cream and pouring over chocolate chips; stir until smooth.
- Top each cheesecake with ganache and a fresh strawberry before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini cheesecake
- Calories: 184
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 42mg