Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Bites
Ingredients:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
10-12 large strawberries, hulled
1 cup semisweet or milk chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
Graham cracker crumbs (optional for garnish)
Fresh mint leaves (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Hollow Out the Strawberries:
Using a small paring knife or a strawberry corer, carefully hollow out the center of each strawberry, creating space for the cheesecake filling. Set the strawberries aside.
3. Fill the Strawberries:
Spoon or pipe the cream cheese mixture into each hollowed-out strawberry. A piping bag or small plastic bag with the tip cut off makes this easier.
4. Freeze the Filled Strawberries:
Place the filled strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for about 20-30 minutes. This helps the filling set and makes the strawberries easier to dip in chocolate.
5. Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
6. Dip the Strawberries:
Once the strawberries are chilled and firm, dip each one into the melted chocolate, covering the top and sides. You can use a fork or a toothpick to hold the strawberries while dipping.
Place the chocolate-dipped strawberries back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Garnish (Optional):
If you like, sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the wet chocolate for an extra cheesecake-like texture and flavor.
8. Chill and Serve:
Allow the chocolate to set by placing the tray of strawberries in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes.
Garnish with mint leaves if desired and serve these delightful Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cheesecake Bites chilled.