Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prep the strawberries
- Hull the strawberries from the top and cut a small slice off the bottom so they stand upright; hollow out the center of each with a small spoon or melon baller, leaving a thick enough wall to hold the filling.
- Rinse and dry the strawberries thoroughly so the filling won’t slide out; set the hollowed berries upright in a single layer.
Make the cheesecake filling
- Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and fresh lemon juice until completely smooth and free of lumps.
- Fold in whipped topping until light and airy, keeping the mixture fluffy.
- Transfer the filling to a piping bag fitted with a star tip so you can pipe a swirl.
Fill, top, and chill
- Pipe cheesecake filling into each hollowed strawberry, swirling up above the top for the signature tall look.
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs and mini chocolate chips or sprinkles over each one so the crumbs and garnish cling to the filling.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes and serve chilled to set the filling and keep the berries crisp.
Notes
Pro tip: after hollowing, pat the strawberries very dry and assemble right away—watery berries can thin the filling. Store covered in the refrigerator up to 3 days (best within 48 hours). Freezing is not recommended because strawberries lose texture. Dietary swap: use a lactose-free cream cheese (and lactose-free whipped topping if needed) for an easy lactose-free version.
