Name: Cheesecake Filled Strawberries Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 to 18 medium to large strawberries (washed and patted dry); 2 ounces graham crackers; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon salted butter; 1 tablespoon heavy cream; 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 8 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1/3 cup powdered sugar (sifted)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 222 reviews

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels effortlessly elegant yet delivers a burst of creamy, fruity goodness with every bite, you are going to adore this Cheesecake Filled Strawberries Recipe. This delightful treat combines the freshness of juicy strawberries with the rich, velvety texture of cheesecake filling, all rounded out by a crunchy, buttery graham cracker crumb topping. It’s the perfect little indulgence for parties, a summer picnic, or just a sweet surprise to brighten your day. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for impressing guests or satisfying your dessert cravings without any fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a collection of ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the top left, a white bowl holds fresh, bright red strawberries with green leaves. To the right, a white plate has a rectangular block of white cream cheese. Below that, another white bowl contains a mound of white powdered sugar. A small white bowl with a light yellow piece of butter is placed beside it. To the left, a white bowl is filled with golden-brown graham cracker crumbs. Below that, two smaller white bowls hold a white powder (likely salt) and a small amount of white liquid. A small brown glass bottle is near the bowls, and two small glass jars with ground cinnamon and nutmeg with a gold spoon rest on the right side next to a pink cloth napkin. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Cheesecake Filled Strawberries Recipe comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that each bring their own magic to the dish. Every element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal.

16 to 18 medium to large strawberries (washed and patted dry): Fresh strawberries serve as the juicy, natural “cup” and provide a vibrant pop of color and flavor.

2 ounces graham crackers: Crumbled to deliver that irresistible crispy crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.
1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the graham cracker mixture.
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Introduces a warm, comforting spice note to the crumb topping.

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Enhances the depth of flavor with subtle earthiness.
1 tablespoon salted butter: Browned to nutty perfection, it binds the crumbs together and brings richness.
1 tablespoon heavy cream: Helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture in the cheesecake filling.

1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Elevates the cheesecake filling with its sweet, fragrant aroma.
8 ounces cream cheese (softened): The star of the filling, offering luscious creaminess and tang.
1/3 cup powdered sugar (sifted): Sweetens the filling evenly without grit, ensuring smoothness.

How to Make Cheesecake Filled Strawberries Recipe

A close-up view of thick, creamy white frosting in a clear glass bowl with two shiny metal beaters partially covered in the smooth frosting. The texture is soft and fluffy, with some streaks and swirls visible around the edges of the bowl. The background shows a clean white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Start by carefully hollowing out each strawberry. This is your edible little bowl for the luscious cheesecake filling, so take your time to remove just enough pulp to create space but keep the strawberry intact and sturdy. Set these aside on a plate so they’re ready to be filled.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crumb Topping

In a mini food processor, break the graham crackers into fine crumbs by pulsing until they’re almost powdery. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl and stir in the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg — this mixture packs that signature warm, spiced flavor. Melt the salted butter in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until it browns slightly and releases a fragrant nutty aroma. Remove from heat and toss the crumbs into the butter, coating them evenly. This step is key to adding a golden crunch that complements the creamy filling beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and sifted powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer to whip everything together until smooth and fluffy. This luscious, dreamy filling is the heart of your Cheesecake Filled Strawberries Recipe and will have you wanting to sneak tastes. For easier filling, transfer the cheesecake mixture into a piping bag or resealable bag; this will make the next step a breeze.

Step 4: Fill the Strawberries

Pipe the cheesecake filling into each hollowed strawberry, filling them generously but gently to avoid breakage. Fill them all once and then go back to add more where needed — this guarantees every bite is perfectly packed with creamy goodness.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch

Sprinkle the browned butter graham cracker crumbs generously over the tops of the cheesecake filled strawberries. This adds that perfectly toasted crunch and a beautiful finishing touch that makes the dish pop visually and flavor-wise. You’re officially done and ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesecake Filled Strawberries Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a charming visual accent and a fresh aromatic layer to this dessert. For a hint of indulgence, drizzle a bit of melted chocolate over the top. These little garnishes work wonders at transforming simple cheesecake filled strawberries into a stunning presentation that’s sure to turn heads.

Side Dishes

This Cheesecake Filled Strawberries Recipe shines on its own but pairs beautifully with light accompaniments like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of lemon sorbet for an extra zing. You can also serve alongside a crisp glass of sparkling wine or rosé to complement the creamy sweetness and fresh berry notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Display these cheesecake treats on a pretty platter lined with fresh strawberry leaves or edible flowers to bring natural charm. For an event, arrange them in petite paper cupcake liners for easy serving or skewered on pretty cocktail picks to create bite-sized dessert kabobs. Their vibrant color and elegant shape make this recipe a crowd-pleaser no matter how you serve it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cheesecake filled strawberries refrigerated in an airtight container. They’re best enjoyed within 1 to 2 days to maintain the strawberry’s freshness and the creamy filling’s texture. Leaving them overnight allows the flavors to meld even further but be mindful the strawberries may release some juice.

Freezing

Because fresh strawberries lose their texture when frozen, this recipe isn’t ideal for freezing once assembled. However, you can prepare and freeze the cheesecake filling separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Defrost in the fridge and refill fresh strawberries as needed.

Reheating

This is a no-heat dessert, so reheating is not recommended. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture experience. If you want to take the chill off, let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this Cheesecake Filled Strawberries Recipe?

Frozen strawberries are too watery and soft once thawed to hold the cheesecake filling properly. It’s best to use fresh, firm strawberries to maintain the structure and freshness essential for this recipe.

How do I prevent the strawberries from leaking juice?

Make sure to pat the strawberries dry very well and fill them just before serving to minimize juice leakage. Also, hollow them gently to avoid piercing through to the sides, which helps keep juices contained.

Can I make the cheesecake filling without a mixer?

Yes, you can whisk the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla together vigorously by hand, but it will take longer to achieve a smooth, fluffy texture compared to using a hand mixer.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap cream cheese for a vegan cream cheese alternative, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and make sure your graham crackers and butter substitutes are vegan-friendly. The result will still be deliciously creamy and flavorful.

Can I add other flavors to the cheesecake filling?

Feel free to experiment! Adding a tablespoon of lemon zest, a splash of almond extract, or even blending in some pureed berries can personalize your cheesecake filling and add fun flavor twists to this classic recipe.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Cheesecake Filled Strawberries Recipe — it’s an absolute joy to make and almost impossible to resist. Whether you’re planning a party or just craving a handmade treat, this recipe offers a beautiful balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy that feels special but comes together quickly. I encourage you to give it a try, watch your friends and family’s eyes light up, and delight in the pure happiness that only a perfect bite of cheesecake-filled strawberry can bring.