Get ready to swoon over every dreamy bite of this Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake! With its luscious, creamy layers of decadent chocolate and bright strawberry, all nestled atop a crisp chocolate cookie crust, this showstopper is the ultimate celebration dessert. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, the stunning swirls and indulgent flavors of this cheesecake are sure to make it your new go-to recipe. Trust me, every forkful is pure happiness.

Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is a beautiful example of how just a handful of well-chosen ingredients can create something truly unforgettable. Each element brings its own magic, from the rich chocolate to the tangy strawberry, coming together in perfect harmony. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips to make every layer shine.

Chocolate cookie crumbs: These form the irresistibly crunchy base, so choose a chocolate cookie you love for maximum flavor.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs and helps create that classic, sliceable crust.
Cream cheese: The heart of any cheesecake! Make sure it’s softened for the smoothest, creamiest texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances the tang of the cream cheese and sour cream.
Sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and extra silkiness to the cheesecake base.
Eggs: These set the structure, ensuring the cheesecake holds its gorgeous swirls.
Vanilla extract: A dash of vanilla brings warmth and rounds out the flavors.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melted and swirled in, they create a rich chocolate layer that’s simply divine.
Strawberry preserves or puree: For that pop of fruity color and flavor, use your favorite strawberry jam or a homemade puree.
Red or pink food coloring (optional): Just a drop or two gives the strawberry swirl a vibrant, eye-catching hue.
Fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings (optional): The perfect finishing touch for both flavor and a stunning presentation.

How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter, mixing until every crumb glistens. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. This will set the stage for your cheesecake’s flavor and texture, so don’t be shy—really press it down! Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then set it aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheesecake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until perfectly smooth and creamy. Add in the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing to combine and infuse the batter with their subtle tang and warmth. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is just incorporated before adding the next. This gentle touch keeps your Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake filling delightfully light.

Step 3: Create the Chocolate and Strawberry Layers

Divide the batter evenly between two bowls. Into one half, stir in the melted (and slightly cooled) semi-sweet chocolate chips until you have a silky, chocolatey mixture. Into the other half, blend in the strawberry preserves or puree, plus a few drops of red or pink food coloring if you want that extra pop of color. Each bowl is now bursting with its own distinct, delicious character!

Step 4: Swirl and Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the chocolate batter into your cooled crust and smooth the top. Gently spoon the strawberry batter over the chocolate layer, then grab a butter knife and swirl the two layers together for that signature marbled effect. Don’t overdo it—a few elegant swirls will do the trick. Tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles, then bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the center is set but still has a little jiggle.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Once the cheesecake is baked to perfection, turn off the oven and crack the door open. Let the Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake cool in the oven for an hour—this gentle cooling helps prevent cracks. Afterward, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait that long. This chilling time is what transforms the filling into the creamy, dreamy dessert we all love!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

When it’s finally time to serve, gently release the cheesecake from the springform pan. Top it with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings, if you like, for a touch of elegance and even more flavor. Each slice will reveal gorgeous swirls and taste as heavenly as it looks!

How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake

Garnishes

Garnishing this cheesecake is almost as fun as eating it! I love scattering fresh strawberry halves and a generous sprinkle of chocolate shavings over the top for a festive, bakery-worthy look. If you want to go all out, a dollop of whipped cream or even a drizzle of extra strawberry sauce will make your Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake irresistible.

Side Dishes

Since this cheesecake is rich and flavorful on its own, a light accompaniment is all you need. Try pairing slices with a fresh fruit salad, a cup of hot coffee or tea, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The freshness and simplicity of these sides balance the cheesecake’s creamy decadence beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, you can transform your Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake into the centerpiece of your dessert table. Serve it on a pretty cake stand, add edible flowers, or cut it into mini squares for a fun party platter. For a romantic touch, try cutting slices into heart shapes—perfect for Valentine’s Day or any day you want to show a little extra love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cheesecake stores beautifully! Simply cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual slices to an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated and enjoy within 4 to 5 days for the best texture and flavor. The flavors seem to deepen even more after a day or two, making those leftovers extra tempting.

Freezing

If you want to make your Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake in advance, freezing is a fantastic option. Once fully chilled, wrap the cheesecake (whole or in slices) in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The texture remains creamy and the flavors just as vibrant.

Reheating

Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled or at cool room temperature, so there’s no need for reheating. If you like a slightly softer texture, let slices sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before indulging. Just be sure not to leave it out too long, especially in warmer weather.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of regular?

You can, but keep in mind that full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and richness. Low-fat versions may make the cheesecake a bit less creamy and more prone to cracking, but it will still be delicious!

What’s the best way to prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Letting your ingredients come to room temperature before mixing and allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven are the best tricks for a smooth top. Don’t overmix the batter and avoid opening the oven door while baking.

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of preserves for the swirl?

Absolutely! Blend fresh strawberries with a little sugar to make a homemade puree. Just be sure to strain out the seeds if you prefer a smoother swirl.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The edges should be set and the center should still have a slight wobble when you gently shake the pan. It will continue to set as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks a bit jiggly in the middle.

Can I make mini cheesecakes with this recipe?

Yes! Divide the crust and filling among muffin tins lined with paper cups and adjust the baking time to about 18 to 22 minutes. They’re adorable and perfect for parties or gifting.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s both stunning to serve and wildly delicious, this Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake is calling your name. I hope you give it a try and share it with those you love—it’s a true celebration in every slice!

Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe

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4.9 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This decadent Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake features a rich chocolate cookie crust, creamy chocolate and strawberry-infused cheesecake layers beautifully swirled together. Perfect for special occasions or a romantic dessert, it combines the luscious flavors of chocolate and fresh strawberries in a stunning presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreos, finely crushed)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Cheesecake Filling

3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup sour cream
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted and slightly cooled)
1/3 cup strawberry preserves or strawberry puree
Red or pink food coloring (optional)

Garnish (optional)

Fresh strawberries
Chocolate shavings

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Instructions

Prepare the crust: Preheat the oven to 325°F. In a medium bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until the mixture is evenly combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
Make the cheesecake batter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine. Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until each egg is incorporated after each addition to avoid overmixing.
Divide and flavor the batter: Split the batter evenly into two separate bowls. Stir the melted chocolate into one half until fully blended. In the other bowl, mix in the strawberry preserves or puree. If desired, add a few drops of red or pink food coloring to enhance the strawberry color.
Layer and swirl: Pour the chocolate batter over the cooled crust and smooth the surface. Gently spoon the strawberry batter on top of the chocolate layer. Use a butter knife to swirl the two batters together carefully, creating a marbled effect. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
Bake the cheesecake: Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the center is mostly set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
Cool and chill: Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open. Let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking. After this, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set completely.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, optionally garnish the cheesecake with fresh strawberries and chocolate shavings for an extra special touch.

Notes

For best results, bring all ingredients to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth cheesecake batter.
You can substitute seedless strawberry jam or make a homemade strawberry puree by blending fresh strawberries with a bit of sugar to add your preferred sweetness and texture.
Use a water bath or place a pan of hot water in the oven during baking to reduce cracking and ensure even cooking (optional).
Allow the cheesecake to chill thoroughly for the best texture and flavor – overnight chilling is recommended.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American