Ingredients
– **For the Crust:**
– 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (e.g., Oreo crumbs)
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– **For the Cheesecake Layers:**
– 3 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup strawberry puree (made from fresh or frozen strawberries)
– 1/4 cup chocolate ganache (optional, for an extra layer)
– **For the Strawberry Layer:**
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
– 1/4 cup strawberry jam
– **For the Topping:**
– Fresh strawberries, halved
– 1/2 cup chocolate ganache, for drizzling
– Chocolate shavings or chips
Preparation
1. **Prepare the Crust:**
– Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
– In a medium bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted butter until combined.
– Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.
– Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. **Make the Cheesecake Layers:**
– In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
– Add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until fully combined.
– Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
– Mix in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until smooth.
– Divide the batter into two equal portions. In one portion, gently fold in the strawberry puree to create the strawberry cheesecake layer.
– Pour the plain cheesecake batter over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
– Gently pour the strawberry cheesecake batter over the plain layer.
– Optional: If adding a chocolate layer, drizzle the chocolate ganache over the strawberry layer and lightly swirl it with a knife.
3. **Bake the Cheesecake:**
– Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set.
– Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly, allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly in the oven for an hour.
– Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
4. **Assemble the Strawberry Layer:**
– Once the cheesecake is set, spread the strawberry jam over the top of the cheesecake.
– Arrange the sliced fresh strawberries on top of the jam.
5. **Add the Toppings:**
– Drizzle the top of the cheesecake with chocolate ganache.
– Garnish with fresh strawberry halves and chocolate shavings or chips.
6. **Serve:**
– Carefully remove the cheesecake from the springform pan.
– Slice and serve chilled.
This layered strawberry chocolate cheesecake is perfect for special occasions or as a show-stopping dessert for any gathering!
If you need any other variations or more specific details, feel free to ask!