Cheesecake stuffed strawberries are a fun and delicious treat! Imagine juicy strawberries filled with creamy cheesecake mixture, making every bite a sweet surprise.
These little bites are perfect for parties or just a tasty snack. I love popping them in my mouth; it feels like dessert and fruit rolled into one! You’ll want to make extra! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Choose large, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and size. If strawberries aren’t in season, you can use raspberries or blueberries instead, but consider the size of the fruit for filling.
Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese gives the creamiest texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-fat cream cheese works too, but may alter the texture slightly.
Powdered Sugar: This is essential for sweetness and smoothness. If you prefer a less sweet stuffing, you can reduce the amount or use honey or maple syrup as natural sweeteners.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic for cheesecake, but you can substitute with crushed cookies like Biscoff or digestive biscuits for a different flavor. Gluten-free alternatives are also available if needed.
Caramel Sauce: This is optional but adds a nice touch. You can use store-bought or make your own by heating sugar until it melts. Just be careful, as it gets very hot!
How Do You Hollow Out Strawberries Properly?
Hollowing strawberries can seem tricky, but it’s simple with the right technique. Follow these steps to make a perfect pocket for your cheesecake filling:
- Start with a clean, dry strawberry. Hold it firmly by the stem.
- Use a small paring knife or a strawberry huller. Insert it gently at the top of the berry and rotate to cut out a small cone-shaped piece from the center.
- Remove the core and add a little twist to help pop it out. Be careful not to cut through the bottom!
- Check the cavity and enlarge it slightly if needed to hold more filling.
Practice makes perfect — don’t worry if your first few aren’t perfect! You can nibble on the scraps for a little taste test.
Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pint large fresh strawberries
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tbsp caramel sauce or drizzle (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious treat takes about 20 minutes to prepare and requires at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in total, you’ll be looking at around 50 minutes from start to enjoy! It’s a quick and fun recipe!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberries:
Start by washing the strawberries under running water. Make sure they are dry after washing. Remove the green tops (the stems) with a knife, then carefully hollow out the center of each strawberry using a small knife or a strawberry huller. You want to create a little pocket without cutting through the bottom. Set these aside.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. This should take about 1-2 minutes. Once smooth, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix again until everything is well combined and fluffy. Taste the filling to see if you’d like it sweeter; you can add a bit more powdered sugar if you prefer!
3. Fill the Strawberries:
Transfer the creamy cheesecake mixture into a piping bag or a small plastic bag with a corner snipped off. This makes it easy to fill the hollowed strawberries! Pipe the cheesecake filling into each strawberry, making sure they are generously filled.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once all the strawberries are filled, sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs on top of each one. If you’re using caramel sauce, drizzle a little over the top of the crumbs for that extra sweet touch.
5. Chill and Serve:
Arrange the filled strawberries on a serving plate, and pop them into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the filling set up and makes them even more refreshing!
Once chilled, they are ready to be enjoyed. These cheesecake stuffed strawberries are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cream cheese with the natural juiciness of strawberries. Dig in and enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese if you’re looking for a lighter option. However, keep in mind that the texture might be a bit different— it may not be as creamy as full-fat cream cheese.
How Should I Store Leftover Stuffed Strawberries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can keep them chilled to maintain their flavor and texture.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and fill the strawberries just a few hours before serving. This will help the strawberries stay fresh and the filling will remain fluffy!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Get creative! Other toppings like crushed nuts, chocolate shavings, or fresh fruit slices can add different flavors and textures. You can also mix some fruit puree into the filling for added flavor.
