Sweetheart Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries

Name: Sweetheart Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp lemon juice; 12 medium strawberries, hulled

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore these Sweetheart Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries! Every time I make them, I’m reminded of how indulgent yet refreshing they are. The sweetness of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the creamy, enriched cheesecake filling. They’re not just a treat for the taste buds; they’re a feast for the eyes too! Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sunny afternoon, these delightful bites always make the moment feel celebratory. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to whip up, making them a perfect pick for any gathering.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:22:27.813Z

I remember the first time I made Sweetheart Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries. The moment I sliced into those ripe strawberries and piped in the luscious cream cheese filling, I knew I had created something special. The combination of rich cheesecake and fresh fruit is something I always crave.

What makes these strawberries so delightful is the balance between sweet and tangy flavors. I like to add a hint of vanilla and a splash of lemon juice to brighten the cheesecake filling. This little twist makes the filling feel vibrant and keeps the strawberries tasting fresh!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Elegant presentation that impresses at any gathering
Lightning-fast preparation for busy schedules
Balanced sweetness with a refreshing twist

      

Crafting the Perfect Cheesecake Filling

To achieve a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling, start with properly softened cream cheese. You can leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing, which helps in breaking down any lumps. When you beat the cream cheese, make sure your mixing bowl is dry; moisture can affect the texture. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar to avoid a cloud of sugar flying everywhere, and mix until the filling is glossy and well-combined.

The vanilla extract and lemon juice play vital roles in balancing the richness of the cream cheese. The lemon juice adds a delightful acidity that brightens the flavor, while the vanilla enhances its overall sweetness. Don't skip the lemon juice; it’s crucial in creating that classic cheesecake taste. Experiment with different flavored extracts if desired, like almond or hazelnut, to give your filling a unique twist!

Hollowing the Strawberries

When hulking strawberries, a sharp paring knife or a dedicated strawberry huller works best. Gently twist the huller or carefully cut around the stem with the knife, angling it towards the center. Remove enough flesh to create a cavity but be cautious not to puncture the sides, as this can lead to leaking while filling. Aim for a cavity deep enough to hold a generous amount of filling, as that’s where the joy lies!

For an elegant finish, choose strawberries that are uniform in size and shape; this allows for a consistent presentation. Be sure to rinse your strawberries and pat them dry thoroughly before hulling to prevent excess water from diluting your cheesecake filling. A beautiful, vibrant red hue not only looks appetizing but also signals ripeness—select strawberries that are luscious and firm for the best experience.

Chilling and Serving Tips

After filling the strawberries, chilling them for about 10 minutes not only sets the cheesecake filling but also allows the flavors to develop. If you’re preparing them ahead of time, you can refrigerate them for up to a few hours before serving. Just be careful not to leave them too long, as the strawberries can lose their firmness and begin to leak around the edges, making them less visually appealing.

When ready to serve, place the filled strawberries on a decorative platter with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color. These treats are perfect for special occasions, but they can also brighten up a casual gathering or picnic. For a fun twist, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the strawberries before serving; this adds an extra layer of flavor and a touch of indulgence that complements the cheesecake filling beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful treat:

For the Cheesecake Filling

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp lemon juice

For the Strawberries

12 medium strawberries, hulled

Once you have everything, you’re ready to create your delicious stuffed strawberries!

Instructions

Let's dive into making these delightful bites:

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until you achieve a creamy consistency without lumps.

Hollow the Strawberries

Using a paring knife or a strawberry huller, carefully remove the core of each strawberry to create a small cavity for the filling.

Fill the Strawberries

Spoon the cheesecake filling into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe the filling generously into each hollowed strawberry.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the filled strawberries for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy these delightful treats chilled!

Now you can savor these delicious cheesecake stuffed strawberries!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs on top for a crunchy texture that mimics a traditional cheesecake crust.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Sweetheart Cheesecake Stuffed Strawberries are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep them in a single layer to avoid squishing. If you're preparing for an event, consider making the cheesecake filling ahead of time, which can be stored for up to three days in the fridge before filling the strawberries.

For gatherings, consider scaling up the recipe. You can easily double or triple the ingredients to create a larger batch. Just ensure you have enough strawberries to accommodate the increased filling. Remember to chill the filled strawberries in batches if you make multiple servings at once, to maintain their freshness and flavor.

Serving Variations

To add variety, feel free to experiment with other fruit; raspberries, blueberries, or even slices of kiwi can provide exciting flavor contrasts and vibrant colors. You can also mix in additional toppings such as crushed graham crackers, finely chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top of the filling for added texture and flavor.

These stuffed strawberries can also be turned into a fun dessert platter. Pair them with mini cheesecakes or chocolate-dipped fruits. If you’d like to appeal to a wider audience, consider offering a vegan version of the cheesecake filling using coconut cream instead of cream cheese, along with a natural sweetener like maple syrup. This allows everyone to indulge while accommodating different dietary preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese works as well, however, it may alter the texture slightly.

→ How long will the stuffed strawberries last?

These strawberries are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.

→ Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesecake filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to fill the strawberries.

→ What other fruits could I use?

You can try raspberries, blueberries, or even hollowed-out peaches for a delicious twist on this recipe!