Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries are a crowd-pleaser for their simplicity, refreshing taste, and versatility. They have the rich and creamy texture of traditional cheesecake without the need for baking. The combination of sweet strawberries and a luscious cheesecake filling makes them an exciting and healthier alternative to classic desserts. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be customized with toppings, making them perfect for any celebration.

Ingredients

• 12 large strawberries

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup whipped cream

• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)

• Crushed graham crackers (for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Begin by washing the strawberries thoroughly and patting them dry with a paper towel. Cut the tops off the strawberries and carefully hollow out the center using a small spoon or a melon baller, leaving the outer edges intact.

2. In a medium-sized bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

3. Gently fold in the whipped cream to the cream cheese mixture until well combined and fluffy. If you want a sweeter filling, add honey or maple syrup and mix it in.

4. Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling into the hollowed strawberries. Be generous with the filling but don’t overfill to avoid spilling.

5. For an extra touch, sprinkle the top of each stuffed strawberry with crushed graham crackers for that classic cheesecake crunch.

6. Arrange the cheesecake-filled strawberries on a platter and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow them to set.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries. It takes about 20 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge, making the total time about 50 minutes.

Variations

• Fruit Topping: Add a variety of fresh fruit on top of the cheesecake filling, like blueberries, raspberries, or kiwi, for a burst of color and flavor.

• Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, drizzle melted chocolate over the stuffed strawberries before serving.

• Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped nuts such as almonds or pistachios for an added crunch.

• Flavor Infusions: Add a splash of lemon juice or a bit of cinnamon to the cheesecake filling for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but they can hold up well if kept chilled. Do not freeze as the strawberries will become mushy once thawed.

FAQs

How do I make sure the strawberries don’t become soggy?

To prevent the strawberries from becoming soggy, be sure to hollow them out just before serving and refrigerate them only after filling them with the cheesecake mixture.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the filling. However, Greek yogurt has a tangier flavor, so it will alter the taste slightly.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and hollow out the strawberries a day ahead of time. Assemble the strawberries with the filling just before serving.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese can be used as a healthier alternative without sacrificing too much on taste and texture.

Can I pipe the filling into the strawberries?

Yes, using a piping bag makes the process easier and cleaner. Just cut the tip of the bag to a small opening for better control.

How can I add more flavor to the filling?

Try adding lemon zest, cinnamon, or a splash of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture to give it more depth of flavor.

Can I use whipped topping instead of whipped cream?

Yes, you can use whipped topping (like Cool Whip) in place of whipped cream for convenience and a lighter texture.

Do these need to be refrigerated?

Yes, they should be refrigerated to maintain their freshness and ensure the cheesecake filling sets properly.

How many strawberries do I need for this recipe?

You’ll need about 12 large strawberries for this recipe, but you can adjust the number depending on the size and how many servings you need.

Can I make these without graham crackers?

Yes, the graham crackers are optional. If you’d like to skip them, you could also use crushed pretzels or nuts for a different texture.

Conclusion

Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries offer the perfect balance of sweet and creamy, all within a bite-sized, easy-to-eat form. They’re a versatile treat that can be customized with different toppings and flavors, making them an excellent choice for any gathering or event. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover or a strawberry enthusiast, these delectable little treats are sure to impress.