Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries are a fun treat! They have sweet, juicy strawberries filled with a creamy cheesecake mix. It’s like a cute dessert that is easy to grab and enjoy.
These little delights are great for sharing, but I often find myself keeping them all to myself! 😋 It’s super simple to make them, just stuff and chill, and you’re ready to impress.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are key. Look for ones that are bright red and firm for the best flavor. If strawberries aren’t in season, you could also use other fruits like raspberries or small pieces of peaches.
Cream Cheese: This gives the cheesecake filling its creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt, which adds a nice tang too!
Powdered Sugar: This sweetens the filling easily and gives it a smooth texture. If you want a healthier twist, you could replace it with a sugar alternative like agave syrup or honey, adjusting the quantity accordingly.
Vanilla Extract: Adds great flavor to the filling. If you don’t have it on hand, almond extract can work as an interesting substitute, but use it sparingly as it’s stronger!
How Do I Hollow Out the Strawberries Properly?
Hollowing out strawberries can feel tricky, but with a few tips, it’s easy. Start by using a paring knife or a small spoon to remove the stem and a bit of the inside. Here’s how:
- First, cut off the green tops carefully.
- Next, hold the strawberry firmly, and gently insert your knife or spoon into the center, twisting slightly to create a space.
- Avoid cutting through the bottom to keep the filling inside!
Practice makes perfect—your first few might not be flawless, but they’ll still taste delicious!
Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: crushed graham crackers for garnish
Time Needed:
This delicious treat takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. The chilling time allows the cheesecake filling to set, so be sure to factor that in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Strawberries:
Start by washing the strawberries under cool water and then dried them carefully with paper towels. Cut off the green tops about 1 inch down. Now, gently hollow out the inside of each strawberry using a small spoon or knife, making a little cavity for the cheesecake filling.
2. Make the Filling:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, mix everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. It should be easy to spread and pipe!
3. Pipe the Filling:
Next, grab a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip—or you can use a small plastic bag with a corner cut off if you don’t have a piping bag. Fill it with the creamy cheesecake mixture. Now it’s time to pipe the filling into each hollowed strawberry. Make a beautiful swirl or just a nice dollop on top!
4. Add the Topping:
If you’d like, sprinkle a bit of crushed graham crackers on top of the cheesecake filling for that classic cheesecake crunch. It adds a nice texture and looks cute too!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the stuffed strawberries with plastic wrap or place them in a container, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help the filling firm up and make them even more delicious. When you’re ready to serve, take them out and enjoy your tasty cheesecake deviled strawberries!
Can I Use Different Fruits for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While strawberries are the star of the show, you can use other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even small pieces of ripe kiwi. Just ensure whatever fruit you choose is firm enough to hold the filling.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for about 1-2 days. However, be aware that the strawberries may start to release moisture, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh!
Can I Make These Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it separately in the fridge. Just hollow out the strawberries on the day you plan to serve them for the freshest taste. Once filled, enjoy them within 1-2 days for the best flavor and texture.
What If I Don’t Have a Piping Bag?
No problem! You can easily make a makeshift piping bag using a resealable plastic bag. Just fill the bag with the cheesecake mixture, seal it, and cut a small corner off one edge for easy piping.
