Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries are a fun and indulgent twist on the classic deviled eggs, but with a sweet, fruity filling. Fresh, juicy strawberries are hollowed out and filled with a creamy cheesecake filling made from cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla, then topped with a drizzle of strawberry jam or fresh berries for an extra burst of flavor. Each bite is a perfect combination of tangy, creamy, and sweet with a refreshing strawberry base.
The first time I made these, I was looking for a creative and light dessert for a gathering, and they were an instant hit! The sweetness of the strawberry’s pairs wonderfully with the rich, creamy cheesecake filling, and the jam or berries on top adds a lovely touch of freshness. What I love most about these strawberries is how easy they are to prepare, yet they look so elegant and impressive. Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries are perfect for parties, brunches, or as a fun, bite-sized dessert for any occasion!
Perfect for:
- Summer parties
- Special events
- Celebratory occasions
- Dessert lovers
- Strawberry enthusiasts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why these Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries will become your new favorite dessert:
- Delicious Flavor Combo: The balance of sweet strawberries with creamy cheesecake is an irresistible pairing.
- Easy to Make: Quick to assemble with minimal ingredients, these treats are a breeze to prepare.
- Fun Twist on a Classic: A playful take on deviled eggs, but with a refreshing dessert twist.
- Burst of Freshness: The ripe strawberries add a naturally sweet and juicy element.
- Light and Creamy Filling: The cheesecake filling is rich but not heavy, making it a light dessert option.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party, BBQ, or holiday gathering, these strawberries are a showstopper.
- No-Bake Dessert: Since they don’t require baking, these strawberries are perfect for warm weather or when you’re short on time.
- Customizable Filling: You can add a variety of flavorings, like vanilla, lemon, or chocolate, to suit your taste.
- Visually Stunning: Their bright red color and pretty presentation make them an eye-catching dessert.
- Portion-Controlled: These bite-sized treats are the perfect portion, satisfying your sweet tooth without overindulgence.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: None
- Servings: 12 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 60-70 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 8g, Fat: 3g
Ingredients
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
For the Strawberries:
- 12 large fresh strawberries
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
- Crumbled graham crackers (for garnish, optional)
Ingredient Highlights
- Fresh Strawberries: The star of the show, offering natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Cream Cheese: Forms the creamy, tangy base of the cheesecake filling.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the filling.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling.
- Graham Crackers: Optional for garnish, giving the dessert a nod to traditional cheesecake crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Strawberries:
- Wash and Dry Strawberries: Rinse the strawberries under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Remove Tops: Slice the tops off the strawberries and hollow out the center with a small spoon or paring knife, leaving a hollow space for the filling.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- Mix Cream Cheese: In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Mix in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined.
- Add Heavy Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and mix until the filling is light and fluffy.
Assemble the Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries:
- Fill Strawberries: Use a small spoon or piping bag to fill each strawberry with the cheesecake filling.
- Optional Garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of lemon zest or crumbled graham crackers on top of the filled strawberries for added flavor and texture.
Serve:
- Chill and Serve: Chill the filled strawberries for 15 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries:
- At a Summer BBQ: Serve these as a refreshing dessert option at your next barbecue.
- For Afternoon Tea: Pair with a pot of iced tea for a light and elegant treat.
- For Birthdays or Celebrations: Perfect for birthdays or holiday parties as a cute, bite-sized dessert.
- With Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate for a decadent touch.
- As a Picnic Treat: Take these strawberries along for a picnic or outdoor gathering.
- On a Dessert Platter: Serve alongside other mini desserts for a sweet dessert table.
- With Fresh Mint: Garnish with a sprig of mint for an extra burst of flavor and color.
- For Brunch: These strawberries make a fun and delicious addition to a brunch spread.
- As a Gift: Package them up in a cute box for a homemade gift.
- With Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe, firm strawberries to ensure the best texture and flavor for your deviled strawberries.
- Hollow Out Carefully: When removing the strawberry centers, be gentle to avoid tearing the fruit. Use a small spoon or melon baller for precision.
- Make the Filling Ahead: Prepare the cheesecake filling a day before for a smoother texture. Store it in the fridge until ready to fill the strawberries.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavors for the cheesecake filling, like vanilla, chocolate, or lemon zest, to create unique twists.
- Add a Dash of Vanilla Extract: A small amount of vanilla extract in the filling can elevate the flavor profile of the cheesecake.
- Sweeten with Honey or Maple Syrup: If you prefer a natural sweetener, honey or maple syrup can replace powdered sugar in the filling for a different taste.
- Chill Before Serving: Let the filled strawberries chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set properly.
- Top with Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts on top for extra crunch and flavor.
- Use a Piping Bag: For a neater, more professional presentation, pipe the cheesecake filling into the strawberries instead of spooning it.
- Double the Recipe: These treats are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, so make extra to ensure everyone gets a taste!
Recipe Variations
- Lemon Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries: Add lemon juice to the cheesecake filling for a tangy twist.
- Chocolate Cheesecake Filling: Mix cocoa powder or melted chocolate into the cheesecake filling for a chocolate variation.
- Berry Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries: Add mashed raspberries or blueberries to the filling for a fruity addition.
- Peanut Butter Cheesecake Filling: Swirl in peanut butter for a nutty version of this treat.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream for a vegan version.
- Coconut Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries: Add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical twist.
Special Equipment
- Pastry Bag or Piping Bag – For filling the strawberries with cheesecake filling neatly.
- Piping Tips – To create decorative edges when filling the strawberries.
- Melting Pot or Double Boiler – For melting chocolate to drizzle over the strawberries.
- Sharp Knife – To hollow out the strawberries carefully.
- Spoon – For scooping out the cheesecake mixture into the strawberries.
- Cutting Board – To prepare and trim strawberries safely.
- Baking Sheet – To place the filled strawberries for chilling.
- Small Bowls – For mixing the cheesecake filling ingredients.
- Rubber Spatula – To fold and scrape the cheesecake mixture.
- Chill Rack or Tray – For cooling the stuffed strawberries and keeping them firm.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are preferred for their texture, but you can use frozen if necessary. Thaw and pat dry before using. - How long do these strawberries last in the fridge?
These strawberries are best eaten within 2 days, stored in an airtight container in the fridge. - Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheesecake filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to fill the strawberries. - Can I make these without the graham cracker topping?
Absolutely! The graham cracker topping is optional, but it adds a nice crunch. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Conclusion
Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries are a sweet and decadent twist on traditional deviled eggs, using juicy, ripe strawberries as the base. The hollowed-out strawberries are filled with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling made from cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a hint of vanilla. Topped with a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs and maybe even a drizzle of chocolate, these little treats are both visually stunning and absolutely delicious.
These bite-sized delights are perfect for a party, brunch, or any occasion where you want to serve something unique and indulgent. The natural sweetness of the strawberries balances beautifully with the rich, creamy cheesecake filling, and the graham cracker crumbs add a delightful crunch that mimics the crust of a traditional cheesecake.
I can’t wait to see how your Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!