If you have a sweet tooth and love the combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries, you are going to adore this Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe. It brings together the creamy tang of Greek yogurt and the luscious flavors of dark chocolate and vibrant strawberry puree in a beautifully swirled, show-stopping cheesecake that’s as delicious as it is stunning. Perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself, this dessert balances indulgence with freshness, making it a memorable finale for any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create complex layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role—from the crumbly, chocolatey crust to the smooth, tangy filling and the sweet, fruity swirl that adds brightness and color.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: These form the base and add a deep, cocoa-rich crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Melted coconut oil: Binds the crust ingredients together while adding a subtle tropical hint.
- Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred): The star ingredient providing a creamy, tangy texture that’s lighter than traditional cream cheese.
- Maple syrup: A natural sweetener with a rich, warm flavor that enhances the cheesecake without overpowering it.
- Pure vanilla extract: Adds aromatic depth and helps tie the flavors together.
- Large eggs: Essential for setting the cheesecake while keeping it silky.
- Dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher), melted: Infuses the batter with intense chocolate notes and smoothness.
- Fresh strawberries, hulled and pureed: Bring a vibrant, fresh fruit element with natural sweetness and a hint of tartness.
- Honey: Sweetens and thickens the strawberry puree for the perfect swirl consistency.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the strawberry flavor and balances the richness of the cheesecake.
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
To get started on this Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Greasing a 9-inch springform pan is a must to prevent sticking and make sure your cheesecake releases easily after baking.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted coconut oil until the texture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create a sturdy and flavorful crust that will hold up beautifully against the creamy filling.
Step 3: Whip Up the Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until velvety smooth. Adding the eggs one at a time ensures a perfect blend and prevents curdling, creating that luscious, smooth cheesecake texture you’re aiming for.
Step 4: Divide and Flavor Your Mixtures
Once your base is ready, split the yogurt mixture evenly into two bowls. Stir the melted dark chocolate into one bowl completely—this will form the rich chocolate portion of your swirl. The other bowl remains plain, ready to highlight the bright flavors of the strawberry swirl.
Step 5: Prepare the Strawberry Swirl
Combine the pureed strawberries, honey, and lemon juice in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Stir frequently until the mixture thickens slightly. This step intensifies the strawberry flavor and perfects the consistency for swirling.
Step 6: Assemble the Layers
Pour the chocolate yogurt mixture over the crust and spread it evenly. Add small dollops of the thickened strawberry mixture on top, then gently pour the plain yogurt mixture over everything. Using a knife or skewer, swirl through the layers to create that beautiful marbled effect that makes this Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe so visually appealing.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake the cheesecake for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set but still has a slight jiggle. Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for an hour to prevent cracking. Then bring it to room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to fully set and develop its flavors.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, slice your cheesecake with a clean, warm knife for perfect edges. You can drizzle melted chocolate or top with fresh strawberries to elevate presentation and flavor right before serving.
How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra wow factor, garnish your Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe with fresh strawberry slices, a light dusting of cocoa powder, or even a few chocolate shavings. Fresh mint leaves also bring a lovely visual contrast and refreshing aroma.
Side Dishes
This decadent cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of sparkling rosé. For a lighter complement, serve alongside a crisp berry salad or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests? Serve individual cheesecake portions in clear glasses with extra strawberry sauce layered on top for a deconstructed effect. Alternatively, cut mini cheesecakes using a ring mold to create charming single servings perfect for elegant gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cheesecake covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze the cheesecake by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight to preserve its texture and taste.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best served cold, so reheating isn’t typically recommended. However, if you prefer a slightly warmer slice, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for a creamy, mellow warmth.
FAQs
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, cream cheese can be used for a richer, denser texture, but Greek yogurt gives a lighter, tangier finish that balances the chocolate and strawberry beautifully in this recipe.
Is it necessary to cook the strawberry puree?
Cooking the strawberry puree helps thicken it and intensifies the flavors, ensuring the swirl holds its shape and doesn’t run or mix too much during baking.
What if I don’t have coconut oil?
You can substitute melted butter or a neutral oil like vegetable oil for the crust. Coconut oil adds a subtle flavor, but other fats will still provide structure to the crust.
Can this cheesecake be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free chocolate cookies or graham crackers for the crust to keep the recipe friendly for gluten-sensitive diets.
How do I prevent cracks on top of my cheesecake?
To prevent cracks, avoid overbaking and cool the cheesecake gradually by leaving the oven door slightly open after baking. Also, using the Greek yogurt base helps keep the texture smooth and creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites, and I hope it will be yours too! The balance of deep chocolate, fresh strawberries, and creamy yogurt creates a harmonious dessert that’s impressive yet approachable. Whether you’re looking to spoil your family or dazzle at your next gathering, give this cheesecake a try—each bite is a celebration of flavor and love.
Print
Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake combines a rich chocolate cookie crust with creamy Greek yogurt cheesecake layers marbled with dark chocolate and fresh strawberry puree. Baked to perfection, this elegant dessert offers a luscious balance of bittersweet chocolate and fruity strawberry swirls, making it a refreshing yet indulgent treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (Oreo-style or chocolate graham crackers)
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 4 oz dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher), melted
Strawberry Swirl
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and pureed
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, thoroughly mix the chocolate cookie crumbs with the melted coconut oil until well combined to create a crumbly mixture.
- Form Crust Base: Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust layer; set aside.
- Mix Base Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Add Eggs: Incorporate eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Divide Mixture: Split the yogurt mixture evenly into two separate bowls for the chocolate and plain layers.
- Prepare Chocolate Layer: Stir the melted dark chocolate into one of the bowls until fully blended to create the chocolate cheesecake layer.
- Prepare Strawberry Swirl: In a small saucepan, combine strawberry puree, honey, and lemon juice.
- Cook Strawberry Mixture: Heat over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, then let it cool slightly.
- Layer Chocolate Mixture: Pour the chocolate yogurt mixture evenly over the crust in the springform pan.
- Add Strawberry Dollops: Spoon small dollops of the cooled strawberry mixture over the chocolate layer carefully.
- Add Plain Yogurt Layer: Gently pour the remaining plain yogurt mixture over the top, covering the dollops.
- Create Swirl Effect: Using a knife or skewer, carefully swirl through all the layers to achieve a beautiful marbled pattern without overmixing.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes until the center is set but still slightly jiggly to avoid overbaking.
- Cool Gradually: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour to cool slowly and prevent cracking.
- Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven, cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set firmly.
- Serve: Slice and serve chilled. Optionally, drizzle melted chocolate or garnish with fresh strawberries for an extra touch.
Notes
- Using full-fat Greek yogurt ensures a creamy texture close to traditional cheesecake.
- Make sure eggs are at room temperature to blend smoothly into the mixture.
- Do not overbake; the cheesecake should still jiggle slightly when done to maintain a creamy consistency.
- Slow cooling in the oven prevents cracking on the cheesecake surface.
- Strawberry mixture can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before swirling.
- Substitute coconut oil with melted butter if preferred, but coconut oil adds a subtle flavor and is dairy-free.
