Deviled Strawberries (Made with a Cheesecake Filling)
Deviled strawberries made with a cheesecake filling are a delightful treat sure to impress everyone at your next gathering. These lovely bites not only taste fantastic but also look beautiful on any dessert table. They combine the sweetness of fresh strawberries with a creamy cheesecake filling and a crunchy graham cracker topping, making them irresistible.
Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking for a fun, festive dessert that captures the essence of spring and summer, look no further than deviled strawberries. They’re easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and can be made ahead of time, freeing you up for more pressing party preparations. Additionally, this recipe is versatile, making it perfect for various occasions, from birthday parties to elegant baby showers or even a simple family dessert night. Plus, who can resist anything that resembles a mini cheesecake?
How to Make Deviled Strawberries
Making deviled strawberries is straightforward and enjoyable! With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delectable treat that will leave your friends and family asking for seconds.
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Ingredients
- 18-24 large strawberries
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2/3 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
Directions
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Prep the Strawberries: Start by cutting off the stems of the strawberries and slicing them in half. To ensure they sit upright, slice a small sliver off the back of each strawberry half. Be careful to hollow them out gently using a small melon baller. You don’t need to remove too much – just enough to create a small indent for the cheesecake filling.
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Make the Whipped Cream: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This process should take about five minutes.
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Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and optional lemon juice. Use an electric mixer to beat until the mixture is completely smooth.
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Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful to incorporate it well without deflating the whipped cream.
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Fill the Strawberries: Next, fill a piping bag with the cheesecake filling (using a star tip works wonderfully for decoration). Pipe the creamy filling onto each halved strawberry.
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Finish with Graham Cracker Crumbs: To add a delightful crunch and hint of flavor, sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the filled strawberries.
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Serve and Enjoy: These delicious treats can be served immediately, or you can refrigerate them for later. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success with Deviled Strawberries
- Choose Ripened Strawberries: Opt for fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness. The color should be a rich red, without any white or green spots.
- Chill the Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened but still cool when mixing. This will help create a smooth filling without lumps.
- Do Not Overfold: When combining the whipped cream and cheesecake mixture, be gentle to avoid deflating the whipped cream. Aim for light and airy consistency.
- Graham Cracker Variations: Consider using chocolate graham crackers for a unique twist. It will change the flavor profile but can be just as delicious.
- Optional Toppings: Get creative! Add colored sprinkles or chopped nuts on top for additional texture and aesthetics.
- Make Ahead: These strawberries can be made a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Flavor Variations for Deviled Strawberries
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are several delicious flavor variations you can try with deviled strawberries:
- Chocolate Cheesecake Filling: Swap the vanilla extract with cocoa powder for a decadent chocolate version.
- Peanut Butter: Mix in some peanut butter with the cheesecake filling for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Fruit Infusion: Add finely chopped fresh fruits like kiwi or berries into the cheesecake filling for added flavor and texture.
- Mint Chocolate Chip: Incorporate mint extract into your filling and add mini chocolate chips for a refreshing twist.
- Lemon Zest: For a citrusy flair, add lemon zest to the filling. This brightens the flavor and adds a fresh note.
Serving Suggestions for Deviled Strawberries
Deviled strawberries are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways:
- As a Dessert Table Feature: They make a stunning centerpiece on dessert tables, especially when paired with other treats.
- At Brunch: Serve them at brunch alongside pastries and coffee for a sweet addition to the menu.
- Picnics: Wrap them gently in tissue paper and add them to picnic baskets for a sweet treat outdoors.
- Party Favors: Offer them in small individual cups as take-home favors for guests to enjoy later.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Deviled Strawberries
Deviled strawberries are best enjoyed fresh but can be prepared a few hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for up to 24 hours.
Note: Do not freeze deviled strawberries, as the texture of the strawberries will change once thawed, and they may become mushy.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|——————|—————–|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 70 mg |
FAQ About Deviled Strawberries
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using low-fat cream cheese can lighten the recipe while still providing a creamy texture. Just remember that it might slightly alter the creaminess of the filling.
How can I avoid the strawberries becoming soggy?
To prevent your strawberries from getting soggy, prepare them shortly before serving. If you make them ahead of time, store them in the fridge but away from moisture.
Is there a dairy-free option for the filling?
Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy whipping cream alternative to create a delicious dairy-free version of these deviled strawberries.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, fill the strawberries just before serving to maintain their freshness and crunch.
What events are deviled strawberries best suited for?
Deviled strawberries are great for a variety of events, including birthday parties, bridal showers, baby showers, picnics, and holiday gatherings. Their versatility makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Final Thoughts
Deviled strawberries made with a cheesecake filling are a delightful burst of flavor that everyone will enjoy. Their beautiful presentation and creamy, sweet filling make them a perfect dessert for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they are an excellent choice for both beginner and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you choose to follow the classic recipe or experiment with your own variations, you’re sure to create something delicious that will impress family and friends. Don’t forget to enjoy every sweet bite!
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Deviled Strawberries (Made with a Cheesecake Filling)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful deviled strawberries filled with creamy cheesecake and topped with graham crackers, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- 18-24 large strawberries
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2/3 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
Instructions
- Cut off the stems of the strawberries and slice them in half. Slice a small sliver off the back of each strawberry half for stability, then hollow them out gently.
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form, about 5 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture without deflating it.
- Fill a piping bag with the cheesecake filling and pipe it onto each halved strawberry.
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the filled strawberries.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until serving.
Notes
Best served fresh. You can prepare the filling ahead, but fill the strawberries shortly before serving to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American