Ingredients
Scale
- 24 graham crackers, finely crushed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional, for strawberry topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine crushed graham crackers and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then remove and let cool completely.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Beat in vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Step 3: Divide the batter in half. In one half, whisk in the cocoa powder until smooth. Gently fold in the sliced strawberries into the other half of the batter.
- Step 4: Layer half of the plain batter into the cooled graham cracker crust. Spoon half of the chocolate batter on top, swirling gently with a knife or toothpick. Repeat layers with remaining batters.
- Step 5: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges and the center is just slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour. Then, remove and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Step 6: Once completely cool, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before serving. If desired, top with whipped cream and/or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on the strawberries before serving.
Notes
- Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, tightly covered to maintain freshness.
- For a warm, gooey center, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds, then let sit for a minute before enjoying.
- Serve with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra decadent treat.
- To prevent cracking, ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing; this creates a smoother batter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American