Description
Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries
Ingredients:
20 strawberries
1 cup whipped cream
1 block cream cheese (8 oz)
2 tbsp honey
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup crushed pecans
Directions:
Prepare strawberries by halving and hollowing out.
Beat cream cheese, honey, and cinnamon until fluffy.
Fold in whipped cream to create the filling.
Pipe the filling into strawberries and garnish with crushed pecans.
Refrigerate and serve as a gourmet dessert!
Would you add cinnamon or keep it simple? Tell us your style!
#HoneyCheesecakeBites
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Wash 20 large strawberries and pat them completely dry. Carefully slice off the very top stem end, then slice each strawberry in half from top to bottom.
2. Using a small paring knife or a melon baller, gently hollow out a small well in the center of each strawberry half to create space for the filling. Be careful not to cut through the bottom.
3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine one 8-ounce block of softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy.
4. In a separate bowl, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula and a folding motion to combine until uniform, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
5. Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip. Alternatively, you can use a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off.
6. Pipe the cheesecake filling generously into the hollowed-out center of each strawberry half.
7. Sprinkle the tops immediately with 1/4 cup of finely crushed pecans for garnish and a delightful crunch.
8. Arrange the finished strawberries on a serving platter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to set before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These elegant bites are perfect for a dessert platter at a bridal shower, brunch, or dinner party. Serve them on a decorative tray lined with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers. For a fun twist, offer small bowls of additional toppings like mini chocolate chips, graham cracker crumbs, or a drizzle of melted chocolate so guests can customize their own. They pair wonderfully with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of coffee.
How-to Summary
Create a creamy, no-bake cheesecake filling by beating together softened cream cheese, honey, and cinnamon. Gently fold in whipped cream for a light texture. Hollow out strawberry halves, pipe in the filling, and garnish with crushed pecans. Chill to set for the perfect sweet and tangy bite-sized dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble them up to 4-6 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. For best results, add the pecan garnish just before serving to maintain crunch.
Can I use frozen strawberries? No, fresh strawberries are essential. Frozen strawberries become too soft and watery when thawed, making them impossible to hollow out and fill neatly.
Is there a substitute for the pecans? Absolutely. You can use crushed graham crackers, chopped walnuts, sliced almonds, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a nut-free option.
How do I get my filling to be perfectly smooth? Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before beating. This is the key to avoiding lumps in your filling.
Can I omit the cinnamon? Of course. For a classic cheesecake flavor, simply leave the cinnamon out. The honey and cream cheese provide plenty of sweetness and tang.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using cold cream cheese straight from the fridge, as it will result in a lumpy, difficult-to-pipe filling. Do not overmix after adding the whipped cream, as this will deflate it and make the filling dense. Ensure your strawberries are completely dry after washing; any residual moisture will make the filling slide off. Finally, do not skip the chilling step, as it is crucial for the filling to firm up and hold its shape.
Conclusion
Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries are a stunningly simple yet impressive dessert that combines the fresh sweetness of strawberries with the rich, creamy tang of cheesecake. They are incredibly versatile, allowing for easy customization with different spices and toppings. Whether you’re hosting a special event or just want a unique sweet treat, this no-bake recipe is sure to delight. So, will you add the warm hint of cinnamon or keep it classic? Give this recipe a try and share your gourmet style!
