A decadent strawberry cheesecake with a chocolate crust and a glossy fruit topping

Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chocolate Crust:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a food processor, pulse the chocolate cookies into fine crumbs. Add melted butter and sugar, and mix until the crumbs are coated with butter.

Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan (8 or 9-inch size). Use the back of a spoon to pack it tightly.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool completely.

2. Make the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.

Add the pureed strawberries and lemon juice (optional), and gently fold them in.

Add the dissolved gelatin mixture to the filling, stirring well to ensure even distribution.

3. Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled chocolate crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set.

4. Prepare the Strawberry Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine the halved strawberries and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices.

Add the cornstarch mixture and bring it to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the glaze thickens and becomes glossy.

Let the glaze cool slightly before pouring it over the cheesecake.

5. Garnish and Serve:
Once the cheesecake is set and the glaze has cooled, arrange fresh strawberries on top of the cheesecake.

Drizzle with chocolate syrup or ganache for extra decadence.

Slice and enjoy this delicious strawberry cheesecake!

This cheesecake is a perfect combination of creamy strawberry filling, a rich chocolate crust, and fresh fruit on top. It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!