Decadent Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake

Get ready to elevate your dessert game with this mouthwatering Decadent Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake! Combining velvety cream cheese, rich chocolate, and juicy strawberries, every bite is a heavenly delight that will leave your taste buds singing!

Ingredients:

- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened

- 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 1 cup sour cream

- 3 large eggs

- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

- 1/2 cup melted chocolate

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1 cup chopped strawberries

- Fresh strawberries for topping

- Chocolate shavings for topping

- Whipped cream for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with some butter to ensure a smooth release after baking.

2. For the crust, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan and bake for 10 minutes. Once done, take it out and let it cool completely.

3. Meanwhile, prepare the cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a hand mixer until it becomes silky smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing well until they are fully combined.

4. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until smooth. Then, add the eggs one by one, beating well after each addition to ensure a creamy texture.

5. Gently fold in the melted chocolate and chopped strawberries into the cream cheese mixture, enhancing the dessert with a lovely chocolate-strawberry flavor.

6. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust, leveling it out evenly with a spatula.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes. It’s ready when the center is set and the edges are lightly browned. Once finished, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about an hour to cool gradually.

8. After cooling, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This is crucial for getting that perfect texture!

9. Before serving, decorate your cheesecake with fresh strawberries, sprinkle chocolate shavings on top, and add a generous dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent finish.

Nutritional Information:

Around 350 calories per slice, with a balance of carbs, proteins, and fats – perfect for a special treat!

Time: Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 60-70 minutes | Chilling time: 4 hours minimum