Ingredients
- 18-24 large strawberries
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 2/3 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
Preparation
- Prepping the Strawberries
- Select strawberries that are large and firm, as they will hold the filling better. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry to ensure the filling adheres properly.
- Cut off the stems to create a flat base so the strawberries can stand upright.
- Slice each strawberry in half lengthwise and then use a melon baller to carefully hollow out a small indentation in each half. This ensures the cream cheese filling will sit securely without slipping.
- In a medium mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form (about 5 minutes). Properly whipped cream adds volume to the filling, giving it a light, airy texture.
- In a separate bowl, blend softened cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice (optional) until smooth. For tips on achieving the perfect whipped cream consistency, explore this guide to whipping cream.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring it is fully incorporated for a fluffy, creamy filling.
- Transfer the cheesecake filling to a piping bag with a star tip, which allows for a decorative touch when piping. Carefully pipe a swirl of filling into the hollowed-out center of each strawberry half.
- For the final touch, sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the top of each filled strawberry. This adds a slight crunch and a hint of traditional cheesecake crust flavor. If you’re curious about creative ways to use graham cracker crumbs, check out this graham cracker recipe collection.
Making the Cheesecake Filling
Piping and Finishing Touches