White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake
Introduction
Cheesecake has always been a symbol of celebration and indulgence, but when it’s paired with white chocolate and fresh strawberries, it reaches an entirely new level of sophistication. This dessert combines the creaminess of cheesecake, the delicate sweetness of melted white chocolate, and the freshness of juicy strawberries, creating a heavenly harmony. Whether served at birthdays, anniversaries, or holiday gatherings, this cake not only pleases the palate but also dazzles the eyes.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 200 g (about 2 cups) digestive biscuits or graham crackers, crushed
- 100 g (7 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 500 g (18 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 200 g (7 oz) white chocolate, chopped and melted
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix crushed biscuits, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
- Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool.
- Make the filling
- Melt white chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (or microwave in 20-second intervals). Let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add sour cream and vanilla extract. Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Stir in melted white chocolate until fully incorporated.
- Bake the cheesecake
- Pour filling over the cooled crust.
- Place the springform pan in a water bath (to avoid cracks).
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, until edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Turn off oven, leave cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare strawberry topping
- In a saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat until strawberries soften and sauce thickens slightly.
- Cool completely before spooning over cheesecake.
- Assemble and serve
- Pour cooled strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake.
- Garnish with white chocolate curls or extra fresh strawberries.
Methods
- Water bath baking: Prevents cracks and ensures a creamy texture.
- Melting chocolate: Gentle heat avoids seizing and keeps the chocolate silky.
- Slow cooling: Prevents sudden temperature shock that causes cheesecake to split.
- Fruit topping preparation: Balances sweetness with lemon juice for brightness.
History
Cheesecake dates back to ancient Greece, where it was considered a food of the gods. The modern baked cheesecake gained worldwide fame in New York, with variations spreading across cultures. The addition of white chocolate likely comes from French patisserie traditions, which embraced luxurious ingredients. Pairing it with strawberries is a timeless combination — red fruit with creamy white chocolate is not just delicious but visually stunning.
Benefits
- Calcium-rich: Cream cheese and sour cream contribute to bone health.
- Antioxidant boost: Strawberries are packed with vitamin C.
- Mood enhancer: White chocolate stimulates serotonin, giving a sense of happiness.
- Elegant dessert: Both rich and refreshing, making it versatile for any event.
Formation (Serving Ideas)
- Serve chilled, with strawberry topping drizzled generously.
- Plate slices with a drizzle of strawberry coulis and a curl of white chocolate.
- Add whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Pair with coffee or dessert wine for a refined finish.
Conclusion
The White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake is a showstopper — velvety, creamy, and perfectly balanced between richness and freshness. Every bite offers a blend of decadent white chocolate and the tang of strawberries, making it a dessert that lingers in memory long after the last slice is gone.
Lovers of This Cake
- The romantic: Loves the pairing of strawberries and white chocolate.
- The celebrator: Chooses this cheesecake for birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays.
- The chocolate enthusiast: Appreciates the subtle, creamy sweetness of white chocolate.
- The family baker: Enjoys creating a centerpiece dessert that pleases all generations.