If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and absolutely delicious dessert, cheesecake deviled strawberries are the perfect choice. These bite-sized treats combine the fresh sweetness of strawberries with a rich, creamy cheesecake filling, making them a fantastic option for parties, holidays, or even a simple snack. Best of all, they require no baking and can be made in just 10 minutes.
In this recipe, I’ll show you step-by-step how to make these irresistible stuffed strawberries, along with tips for variations and serving suggestions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, these cheesecake deviled strawberries will be a hit. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries
Cheesecake deviled strawberries are more than just a pretty dessert; they’re a perfect combination of flavor, texture, and convenience. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick treat for your family, or just indulging your sweet tooth, these little delights check all the boxes. Here’s why you’ll love them:
A Quick and Easy No-Bake Dessert
One of the best things about cheesecake deviled strawberries is that they require absolutely no baking. Unlike traditional cheesecake, which takes hours to prepare and chill, this recipe comes together in just 10 minutes. All you need to do is prep the strawberries, mix the filling, and pipe it in—simple, fast, and hassle-free.
Perfect for Parties, Holidays, and Special Occasions
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert, these strawberries are a fantastic choice. Their elegant presentation makes them perfect for birthdays, baby showers, Valentine’s Day, or even summer barbecues. They’re also a great finger food option for potlucks and holiday gatherings, where guests can grab one (or a few) without needing a fork or plate.
A Healthier Alternative to Traditional Cheesecake
Compared to a full slice of cheesecake, deviled strawberries offer a lighter way to enjoy the same creamy, rich flavor without the guilt. Since fresh strawberries serve as the base instead of a buttery crust, you get a naturally sweet and juicy treat with less sugar and fewer calories. Plus, they can easily be modified for low-carb or keto diets by using a sugar substitute in the cheesecake filling.
Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
Cheesecake deviled strawberries are a fun and interactive treat for kids and adults alike. The bite-sized nature of this dessert makes it easy to eat without making a mess, and kids will love helping out by stuffing the strawberries or adding toppings. With so many ways to customize them—whether with graham cracker crumbs, chocolate drizzle, or sprinkles—they’re a guaranteed hit for any gathering.
No matter the occasion, cheesecake deviled strawberries are a simple yet impressive dessert that delivers big on flavor while being incredibly easy to make. Now, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to get started!
Ingredients Needed for Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries
Making cheesecake deviled strawberries is simple, and you only need a few key ingredients to create a delicious and creamy filling. Below is a breakdown of the ingredients and why each one is essential for the perfect bite-sized dessert.
Fresh Strawberries
The star of this recipe is fresh, ripe strawberries. Choose large, firm strawberries that are bright red and free from bruises or soft spots. Larger strawberries work best because they provide more space for the creamy cheesecake filling. Before using them, wash them thoroughly, remove the stems, and carefully hollow out the center to create a space for the filling.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is the base of the cheesecake filling, giving it a smooth and creamy texture. For the best results, use full-fat cream cheese, as it provides a richer flavor and better consistency. Make sure to soften the cream cheese at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free filling.
Powdered Sugar
To sweeten the filling, powdered sugar is the best option. Unlike granulated sugar, powdered sugar dissolves easily and blends seamlessly into the cream cheese, preventing any grainy texture. You can adjust the amount of sugar based on your desired level of sweetness.
Vanilla Extract
A small amount of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cheesecake filling. It adds a warm, sweet aroma and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese. For the best taste, use pure vanilla extract rather than artificial vanilla flavoring.
Graham Cracker Crumbs
For a classic cheesecake touch, graham cracker crumbs are sprinkled on top of the stuffed strawberries. They add a light crunch and mimic the texture of a traditional cheesecake crust. If you want to mix things up, you can also use crushed cookies, such as vanilla wafers or Oreos.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Lemon Zest: A small amount of fresh lemon zest brightens the flavor of the filling, adding a slight citrusy tang that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melted dark or white chocolate drizzled over the finished strawberries adds an extra layer of decadence.
- Chopped Nuts: Finely chopped almonds, pecans, or pistachios can be sprinkled on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Cinnamon or Cocoa Powder: A light dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder can enhance the flavor profile, making each bite even more delicious.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a stunning and delicious dessert in no time. Now that you know what you need, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries
Making cheesecake deviled strawberries is simple and takes just a few minutes. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by selecting fresh, ripe strawberries that are firm and bright red. Wash them thoroughly under running water and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Next, hull the strawberries by cutting off the green leafy tops. Then, using a small spoon, melon baller, or a paring knife, carefully scoop out a small portion of the center to create a hollow space for the cheesecake filling. Be gentle to avoid cutting through the bottom, as you want the strawberries to hold the filling securely.
If the strawberries don’t stand upright, slice a tiny bit off the bottom to create a flat base, ensuring they stay stable on a serving platter.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest if using. The cream cheese should be softened to ensure a smooth texture.
Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and fluffy. If the consistency is too thick, add a teaspoon of heavy cream to make it easier to pipe into the strawberries.
Step 3: Fill the Strawberries
Transfer the cheesecake filling into a piping bag fitted with a star tip for a decorative look. If you don’t have a piping bag, you can use a ziplock bag by cutting a small hole in one corner.
Gently pipe the filling into each hollowed-out strawberry, filling them to the top with a small decorative swirl. If you prefer, you can also use a small spoon to scoop the filling into the strawberries.
Step 4: Add Toppings and Serve
To enhance the flavor and texture, garnish the cheesecake deviled strawberries with toppings such as graham cracker crumbs, chocolate shavings, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or crushed nuts. Shredded coconut or colorful sprinkles can also be used for a fun and festive touch.
Arrange the filled strawberries on a serving tray and refrigerate them for at least ten to fifteen minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the filling to firm up slightly.
These cheesecake deviled strawberries are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to twenty-four hours. Serve them as a quick treat, a party appetizer, or a delightful no-bake dessert that everyone will love.
Tips for the Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries
Making cheesecake deviled strawberries is simple, but a few expert tips can help you achieve the best texture, flavor, and presentation. From picking the right strawberries to enhancing the filling, these tips will ensure your dessert is a success every time.
Choosing the Best Strawberries
The quality of your strawberries makes a big difference in the final result. Here’s what to look for:
- Pick large, firm, and ripe strawberries to hold the cheesecake filling well. Soft or overripe strawberries can become mushy.
- Look for bright red strawberries with a fresh green stem for the best flavor.
- Avoid strawberries with bruises or blemishes, as they won’t hold their shape properly.
How to Make the Filling Extra Smooth
A creamy and smooth cheesecake filling enhances the taste and texture of your deviled strawberries. Here’s how to perfect it:
- Use softened cream cheese to prevent lumps. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.
- Beat the filling until light and fluffy to ensure a smooth texture. Using an electric mixer helps create a creamy consistency.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less powdered sugar. A touch of vanilla extract or lemon zest can enhance the flavor.
Creative Variations and Flavor Twists
While the classic cheesecake filling is delicious, you can get creative with different flavors and toppings:
- Add cocoa powder to the filling or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the strawberries for extra sweetness.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for added texture.
- Blend in mashed raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Cheesecake deviled strawberries are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare them in advance, here’s how to store them properly:
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Fill the strawberries just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
- If making ahead, store the cheesecake filling separately in a piping bag or airtight container, then fill the strawberries when ready to serve.
By following these simple tips, you’ll create the most delicious and visually appealing cheesecake deviled strawberries every time. Whether you’re making them for a party, a romantic dessert, or just a sweet snack, these little treats will always impress.
More Easy No-Bake Dessert Ideas to Try
If you love how simple and delicious cheesecake deviled strawberries are, you’ll definitely enjoy other no-bake desserts that are just as easy to prepare. Whether you need a quick treat for a party, a family gathering, or a late-night sweet craving, these desserts require minimal effort and deliver maximum flavor. Here are a few no-bake dessert ideas you can try:
No-Bake Cheesecake Bites
These mini cheesecake bites are creamy, delicious, and require no oven time. Made with a simple cream cheese filling and a graham cracker or cookie crust, they’re perfect for serving at parties or enjoying as an after-dinner treat. You can customize them with different toppings like chocolate drizzle, fruit, or caramel sauce for extra flavor.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries with Cream Cheese Filling
If you love the idea of cheesecake-stuffed strawberries, why not take it a step further by dipping them in chocolate? Simply fill fresh strawberries with sweetened cream cheese, then dip them in melted chocolate for a decadent twist. Let them chill in the fridge for a few minutes before serving for the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and chocolatey goodness.
Strawberry Shortcake Cups
Strawberry shortcake cups are a fun and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of strawberry shortcake without baking. Layer crushed shortbread cookies or graham crackers with fresh strawberries and a light, fluffy whipped cream or cheesecake filling. These individual dessert cups are great for portion control and can be made in advance for convenience.
Mini Fruit Tarts with Cheesecake Filling
Mini fruit tarts are a fresh and colorful no-bake dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious. Instead of a traditional pastry crust, you can use crushed graham crackers or pre-made tart shells. Fill them with a smooth cheesecake mixture and top with fresh fruits like berries, kiwi, or mango. A drizzle of honey or chocolate can add an extra touch of sweetness.
These no-bake desserts are perfect for when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re quick to assemble, require simple ingredients, and are sure to impress guests or satisfy your own cravings. Try one or all of them for your next dessert adventure!
Try out this Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries and let your creativity shine! We’d love to see your sweet creations. Tag us on Instagram at @SweetEatsRecipes and use the hashtag #CheesecakeDeviledStrawberries to get featured.
Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Hand mixer
- Piping bag (or ziplock bag)
- Small spoon
Ingredients
- 12 large Strawberries
- 4 oz Cream cheese
- 2 tbsp Powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp Graham cracker crumbs
Instructions
- Wash and hull the strawberries, slicing off the tops and scooping out a small hole in the center.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture into a piping bag and fill each strawberry with the cheesecake mixture.
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- For a chocolate twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the stuffed strawberries.
- You can replace graham cracker crumbs with crushed nuts for a lower-carb version.
- Best served fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.