Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge is a rich and decadent dessert that combines the flavors of creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberries into one bite-sized treat. This no-bake fudge is easy to make and perfect for gifting or serving at parties. The layers of strawberry and cheesecake flavors create a beautiful and tasty dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 3 cups white chocolate chips
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries (ground into a fine powder)
• 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for a hint of tang)
• Pinch of salt
• Pink or red food coloring (optional for added color)

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh strawberries (sliced, for garnish)
• Crushed graham crackers (for a cheesecake crust flavor)
• White chocolate drizzle

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

1. Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Set aside.

Step 2: Melt the White Chocolate

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk.
2. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Step 3: Add the Cheesecake Mixture

1. Remove the melted white chocolate mixture from heat and add the softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, lemon zest (if using), and a pinch of salt.
2. Stir until the cream cheese and butter are fully incorporated, and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Create the Strawberry Layer

1. Divide the fudge mixture in half. In one half of the mixture, stir in the freeze-dried strawberry powder until evenly combined. If you’d like a more vibrant pink color, add a few drops of pink or red food coloring.
2. Pour the strawberry fudge layer into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Add the Cheesecake Layer

1. Pour the remaining plain cheesecake fudge mixture on top of the strawberry layer, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Step 6: Chill and Set the Fudge

1. Cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until the fudge is firm enough to cut into squares.

Step 7: Serve

1. Once the fudge has set, remove it from the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut it into small squares.
2. Garnish with fresh strawberries, crushed graham crackers, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate if desired.

Cook Notes

• Freeze-Dried Strawberries: Grinding freeze-dried strawberries into a powder adds an intense strawberry flavor without adding extra moisture. You can find freeze-dried strawberries at most grocery stores or online.
• No Food Coloring: The natural pink color from the freeze-dried strawberries is usually enough, but food coloring is optional if you want a more vibrant color.
• Storage: Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Variations

• Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge: Add a layer of melted dark or milk chocolate on top of the cheesecake fudge for a rich chocolate twist.
• Swirled Fudge: Instead of layering, swirl the strawberry and cheesecake mixtures together for a fun marbled effect.
• Graham Cracker Crust: Create a graham cracker crust by mixing 1 cup of crushed graham crackers with 2 tablespoons melted butter. Press it into the bottom of the pan before adding the fudge layers for a classic cheesecake touch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried strawberries?

It’s best to use freeze-dried strawberries for this recipe because fresh strawberries contain too much moisture and can affect the texture of the fudge.

Can I freeze the fudge?

Yes! This fudge freezes well. Simply wrap the pieces individually in wax paper and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How do I prevent the fudge from becoming too soft?

Ensure the fudge is chilled for at least 2-3 hours or until it’s fully set. Keep it stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve for the best texture.

Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?

White chocolate works best in this recipe to give it the cheesecake flavor, but you can swirl in dark or milk chocolate to add more complexity to the flavor profile.

Strawberry Cheesecake Fudge is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of cheesecake and strawberries into a bite-sized, no-bake treat. Whether you’re making it for a party or as a gift, this beautiful and delicious fudge will be a hit. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy the creamy, sweet goodness!