Ingredients
Cheesecake
- 40 Nilla wafers, crushed
- 3 Tbsp butter, melted
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 3 eggs
Vanilla Mousse Topping
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Strawberry Topping
- 1 pint strawberries, sliced
- 2 oz semisweet chocolate, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cheesecake.
- Prepare Crust: Combine the crushed Nilla wafers and melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an ungreased 9 or 10-inch springform pan to form an even crust layer.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a mixer, blend the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract on medium speed until smooth and well combined.
- Add Eggs: Lower the mixer speed to low and add the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next to create a silky batter.
- Bake Cheesecake: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust. Bake in the oven for 45 to 50 minutes until the center is set. Don’t worry if the top cracks slightly.
- Cool Cheesecake: Remove from oven and run a knife around the edges to loosen the cheesecake from the pan sides. Allow it to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare Mousse Topping: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in Cool Whip: Gently whisk in the thawed Cool Whip until fully combined, taking care not to overmix to maintain its fluffy texture.
- Assemble Mousse Layer: Spread the mousse evenly over the cooled cheesecake. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Add Strawberry Topping: Once chilled, arrange the sliced strawberries evenly on top of the mousse layer.
- Drizzle Chocolate: Drizzle the melted semisweet chocolate over the strawberries for a rich finishing touch.
- Serve: Slice the cheesecake carefully and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure all cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Do not overmix the mousse topping when folding in Cool Whip to keep it light and airy.
- If the cheesecake cracks during baking, it will not affect the taste; the mousse topping hides imperfections.
- Chilling the cheesecake overnight improves flavor melding and texture.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry for clean slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American