Whole fresh strawberries
Blackberries (optional)
Chocolate shavings or curls
Instructions
1. Prepare the crust
Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F).
Mix crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter until sandy in texture.
Press firmly into the bottom of a lined springform pan.
Bake for 8 minutes, then set aside to cool.
2. Make the cheesecake filling
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add sour cream, vanilla, and lemon juice, mixing until combined.
Add eggs one at a time, beating on low speed to avoid overmixing.
Pour half of the filling over the crust.
Add a layer of sliced strawberries, then cover with the remaining filling.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, until edges are set but center is slightly wobbly.
Cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (overnight is best).
3. Prepare the chocolate ganache
Heat the heavy cream until just simmering.
Pour over chopped chocolate, let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Add butter and stir for a glossy finish.
Let ganache cool slightly before pouring over the chilled cheesecake.
4. Assemble and garnish
Pour ganache over the cheesecake, letting it drip down the sides.
Top with halved strawberries, blackberries, and chocolate shavings.
Slice, serve, and enjoy this indulgent delight!
