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There’s an undeniable joy in enjoying fresh strawberries, especially when they’re transformed into a delightful treat! I recently stumbled upon this recipe for deviled strawberries with a creamy cheesecake filling, and it’s become a staple at my gatherings. The moment I took my first bite, the luscious combination of sweet, juicy fruit and fluffy cheesecake brought a smile to my face that still lingers.

Perfect for parties, this finger food adds a whimsical twist to traditional desserts while remaining incredibly simple to prepare. Imagine serving these vibrant little treats at your next brunch or summer barbecue, where they’ll not only impress your guests but also spark joy with their bright flavors. Trust me; they’re just as satisfying to eat as they are to behold!

Join me as we dive into this easy but elegant recipe that captures the essence of classic strawberry cheesecake—only in a portion that’s easy to enjoy without the fuss. Let’s get started on creating these delightful deviled strawberries that are sure to please everyone!

Why are Deviled Strawberries a must-try?

Irresistible Combination: These deviled strawberries bring together juicy fruit and creamy cheesecake in a delightful bite-sized treat.
Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can create a visually stunning dessert that impresses without the stress.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for parties or gatherings, these treats are always a hit, transforming any occasion into something special.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize the filling with different flavors or use alternative berries.
Gluten-Free Option: With a few adjustments, you can make these sweet treats gluten-free, ensuring everyone can indulge!

Deviled Strawberries Ingredients

For the Strawberries
• Strawberries – Choose fresh, large strawberries for the perfect juicy base; aim for about 18-24 strawberries depending on size and serving needs.

For the Cheesecake Filling
• Cream Cheese – Use softened cream cheese to create a creamy filling that’s easy to mix and deliciously smooth.
• Heavy Whipping Cream – This ingredient adds lightness; be sure to whip until stiff peaks form for the best texture.
• Sour Cream – Adds a tangy depth of flavor to the cheesecake filling, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
• White Granulated Sugar – Sweeten the mixture; consider a low-carb sweetener as a substitute if needed for a healthier version.
• Vanilla Extract – A must-have for enhancing the flavor of the filling and delivering that classic cheesecake taste.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (optional) – Brightens up the filling with a bit of zest, making the flavors pop.

For the Topping
• Graham Cracker Crumbs – Sprinkled on top for that signature crunch and a nod to traditional cheesecake; low-carb alternatives work well too.

These deviled strawberries are more than just a treat; they’re a flavorful fusion of sweetness that will bring smiles to your gatherings!

How to Make Deviled Strawberries

Prepare the Strawberries: Start by slicing the tops off your fresh strawberries and then halving them. Make a small cut on the back of each half for stability, and gently hollow out a little more flesh with a melon baller to create room for your filling.
Whip the Cream: In a medium bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream using an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. This usually takes about 5 minutes and will give your cheesecake filling a light, airy texture.
Mix Filling: In another bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. If you’re using lemon juice, add it here too. Mix until everything is smooth and well blended.
Combine Mixtures: Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Make sure to mix gently so you keep that airy texture which makes these deviled strawberries so delightful.
Pipe Filling: Take a piping bag fitted with a star tip and fill it with your creamy filling. Pipe the mixture generously onto each strawberry half, creating a beautiful swirl that’s visually appealing.
Finish: Top off your filled strawberries with a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for that classic cheesecake taste and a satisfying crunch. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a couple of hours before enjoying.

Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Deviled Strawberries

Fridge: Store assembled deviled strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. They’re best enjoyed fresh, so don’t prepare them too far in advance!

Make-Ahead Filling: The cheesecake filling can be made and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before using to restore its creamy texture.

Freezer: Although it’s not recommended to freeze assembled deviled strawberries, you can freeze just the cheesecake filling in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

Avoid Sogginess: If preparing strawberries in advance, slice and hollow them but keep the filling separate until you’re ready to serve. This will prevent any moisture from making them soggy.

Deviled Strawberries Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and add your own twist to these delicious treats!

Berry Blend: Use a mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a colorful and fruity variation. Each berry brings its unique sweetness that elevates the flavors of this dessert.
Mascarpone Swap: Replace cream cheese with mascarpone for a creamier and slightly sweeter filling, ideal for those who love an ultra-rich cheesecake experience.
Flavorful Extracts: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or coconut to bring an unexpected twist to the classic cheesecake filling. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
Zesty Lemon: Add lemon zest to your filling for a bright and refreshing zing that complements the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.
Nutty Delight: Sprinkle crushed nuts like almonds or pecans on top for added crunch and a wholesome bite. They add not just texture but also a nutty flavor dimension to the strawberries.
Choco-Berry Twist: Mix in mini chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the finished deviled strawberries for a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
Sugar-Free Option: Swap out the granulated sugar for a low-carb sweetener for a guilt-free treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Perfect for those following a keto lifestyle!
Heat It Up: For an adventurous flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a surprising hint of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet strawberries.

What to Serve with Deviled Strawberries?

Enhance your gathering with delightful pairings that complement these creamy, fruity bites.

Chilled Prosecco: The effervescence of Prosecco adds a sparkling touch, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the deviled strawberries.
Fresh Mint Leaves: Garnishing with fresh mint not only elevates the presentation but also adds a refreshing herbal note that brightens each bite.
Chocolate Dipped Biscotti: The crunchy texture and rich chocolate flavor make biscotti a fantastic companion, ideal for dipping or snacking alongside.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream enhances the dessert experience, combining the cold creaminess with the fresh fruit.
Mixed Berry Salad: A light mixed berry salad with a hint of citrus brings in different textures and flavors, creating a colorful contrast on the plate.
Sparkling Lemonade: Sweet, tangy lemonade with a fizzy twist refreshes your palate, making it the perfect drink to pair with these treats.
Mini Cheesecake Bites: For cheesecake lovers, mini cheesecake bites can create a theme that ties together the celebration while offering variety.
Kept It Simple with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream takes these strawberries to another level, adding an extra layer of creamy goodness to your bite-sized treats.
Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm cup of coffee or soothing herbal tea rounds out the menu beautifully, softening the sweetness of the strawberries with a touch of warmth.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful deviled strawberries are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the strawberries up to 24 hours in advance; simply slice the tops off, halve them, and store them in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb moisture. The cheesecake filling can also be made a day ahead—just keep it refrigerated. When you’re ready to serve, pipe the filling into the strawberries and top with graham cracker crumbs for that irresistible crunch. This approach ensures your treats remain fresh and just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy stress-free entertaining!

Expert Tips for Deviled Strawberries

• Choose the Right Strawberries: Opt for large, ripe strawberries as they provide the best flavor and are easier to stuff. Check for firmness and avoid any that are overly soft.

• Avoid Sogginess: Hollow out the strawberries carefully to prevent them from becoming too soggy. Prep them a day ahead and store in an airtight container with a paper towel inside to absorb moisture.

• Whip Cream Properly: Beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This will ensure your cheesecake filling has that light, airy texture that makes these deviled strawberries truly delightful.

• Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with different flavors for the filling, but be cautious with strong extracts. A little goes a long way, so start with just a drop and adjust to taste.

• Serve Fresh: While these treats can be made ahead, they are best served fresh. If prepared in advance, assemble the strawberries just before serving to maintain their appearance and texture.

Deviled Strawberries with Cream Cheese Cheesecake Filling Recipe FAQs

What type of strawberries should I use for deviled strawberries?
Choosing fresh, large strawberries is key! Look for ones that are firm, juicy, and free of bruises or dark spots. Ideally, buy them just a day or two before serving for the best flavor.

How should I store assembled deviled strawberries?
Store assembled deviled strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. They’re best enjoyed fresh, so I usually assemble them just before serving to maintain their vibrant look and taste.

Can I make the cheesecake filling in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesecake filling up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to use it, give it a gentle stir to restore its creamy texture.

Is it possible to freeze deviled strawberries?
While I wouldn’t recommend freezing assembled deviled strawberries, you can freeze just the cheesecake filling. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To use, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. However, always assemble strawberries fresh to avoid sogginess!

Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes! You can easily make gluten-free deviled strawberries. Simply use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs for the topping, and consider substituting any sugar with a gluten-free sweetener. Always double-check labels, especially on packaged ingredients!