White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake
White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines the creamy richness of white chocolate with the sweet, fruity tang of fresh strawberries.
This show-stopping cheesecake is perfect for celebrations, romantic dinners, or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat. With its smooth, velvety texture and a balance of flavors, this dessert is sure to impress!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Springform pan (9-inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Food processor or rolling pin (for crushing cookies)
- Double boiler or microwave (for melting chocolate)
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheet
Ingredients Overview
- White Chocolate: Adds a luxurious creaminess and sweetness to the cheesecake.
- Strawberries: Provide a fruity balance that complements the richness of the cheesecake.
- Cream Cheese: The star ingredient, giving the cheesecake its smooth and creamy texture.
- Crust: A buttery cookie base adds texture and holds everything together.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed vanilla wafer cookies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 8 oz white chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
For Garnish (optional):
- Whipped cream
- White chocolate shavings
- Fresh strawberries
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and melted white chocolate until fully incorporated.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust.
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
- In a saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries and sugar. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens. Let cool completely.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake is completely cooled, spread the strawberry topping evenly over the top.
- Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, white chocolate shavings, and fresh strawberries if desired.
Recipe Tips
- Prevent Cracking: Use a water bath or place a pan of water on the oven rack below the cheesecake to add moisture while baking.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese, eggs, and white chocolate are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Strawberry Substitutes: If fresh strawberries are unavailable, use frozen ones or substitute with raspberry or cherry topping.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Coffee or Espresso: The richness of the cheesecake pairs beautifully with a strong coffee or espresso.
- Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly enhances the fruity notes of the strawberries.
- Light Salad: Serve as a dessert following a simple, light meal like a fresh garden salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different crust?
Yes! Try using crushed chocolate cookies or shortbread for a variation.
Can I freeze the cheesecake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day or two in advance. It tastes even better after chilling overnight!
Serving Suggestions
White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake is perfect for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or family gatherings. Serve it as the centerpiece of your dessert table, and don’t forget to share the recipe—it’s bound to be requested!
White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed vanilla wafer cookies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 8 oz white chocolate melted and slightly cooled
- For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- For Garnish optional:
- Whipped cream
- White chocolate shavings
- Fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until evenly moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and melted white chocolate until fully incorporated.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the filling over the prepared crust.
- Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
- In a saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries and sugar. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the sauce thickens. Let cool completely.
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
- Once the cheesecake is completely cooled, spread the strawberry topping evenly over the top.
- Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, white chocolate shavings, and fresh strawberries if desired.