Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cheese Spread

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cheese Spread
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Heavenly Dessert Creations

I love creating spreads that bring a smile to everyone’s face, and this Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cheese Spread does just that! With its rich chocolate flavor and fresh strawberry notes, it's the perfect blend of sweetness and creaminess. It’s easy to whip up and makes for a fantastic topping on bagels, toast, or even as a dip with fruits. Plus, who can resist the combination of chocolate and berries? Let me share how I made it and why it’s become a favorite in our household.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:29:27.971Z

Finding the perfect spread to elevate my breakfast has always been a quest for me. One morning, I combined my love for chocolate with fresh strawberries and cream cheese. The result was this heavenly Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cheese Spread that I couldn’t get enough of! It was creamy, fruity, and had just the right amount of sweetness, making my toast feel like a dessert.

I did play around with ingredient ratios, and I discovered that using fresh strawberries instead of preserves enhances the flavor and texture beautifully. The key to achieving the perfect spread is blending everything until smooth while tasting along the way to ensure balance in flavors. Trust me; this will be a hit!

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry sweetness
Creamy texture that spreads beautifully on anything
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

The beauty of this Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cheese Spread lies in the quality of its ingredients. Using full-fat cream cheese rather than low-fat or spreadable varieties ensures that your spread has the right texture and richness. The luxurious creaminess balances beautifully with the fresh strawberries, creating a delightful contrast. Plus, always opt for ripe strawberries — they add the best flavor and sweetness, making a significant difference in the final product.

Cocoa powder is key to achieving that deep chocolate flavor. Be sure to use unsweetened cocoa powder for a true chocolate experience. If you're feeling adventurous, try different brands to find the one that complements your taste preferences best. Note that Dutch-processed cocoa can deliver a smoother, milder taste compared to natural cocoa, so experiment to find your perfect chocolate profile.

Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor

Achieving the right consistency is crucial for spreading. If your cream cheese isn’t softened properly, it can result in a lumpy texture. Aim to leave it out at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing. Alternatively, you can microwave the cream cheese for 10-15 seconds to soften it quickly but keep a close eye to avoid melting it.

Adjusting the sweetness is a personal touch that can elevate your spread. Start by mixing the specific amounts of powdered sugar and cocoa as outlined in the recipe, then taste the mixture. If you prefer a sweeter spread, add sugar gradually, about a tablespoon at a time. Remember, the flavor will intensify after chilling in the fridge, so don’t over-sweeten during initial mixing.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1 tsp vanilla extract

Combine these ingredients for a deliciously unique spread.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by ensuring your cream cheese is at room temperature. This will help in achieving a smooth texture.

Blend the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and chopped strawberries. Use a hand mixer or a food processor to blend until smooth and creamy.

Taste and Adjust

Taste the spread and adjust sweetness or chocolate intensity if needed by adding more sugar or cocoa powder.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your spread to a serving dish and enjoy with bagels, toast, or fresh fruit!

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cheese Spread!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors, or try substituting raspberries for a different berry experience.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Strawberry Cream Cheese Spread is incredibly versatile. My favorite way to serve it is slathered on toasted bagels — the warm bagel complements the creamy spread perfectly. However, don't stop there! Spread it on pancakes or waffles for a luxurious breakfast, or use it as a dip for fresh fruit skewers at a brunch gathering.

For a decadent dessert option, consider using this spread as a filling in crepes or between layers of sponge cake. Its creamy texture and rich flavor can transform simple dishes into something special. Pair it with a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for an indulgent treat that's sure to impress your guests.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare this spread ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. I recommend letting it come to room temperature before serving for the best spreadability. If you're planning to make it well in advance, consider adding the strawberries just before serving to maintain their freshness and prevent the mixture from becoming too watery.

If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze the spread. Portion it into small containers or ice cube trays, seal tightly, and freeze. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. However, be aware that the texture may change slightly after thawing, so give it a good stir before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long can I store the spread?

You can store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but ensure they are thawed completely and drained of excess moisture before blending.

→ What can I serve this spread with?

This spread is perfect on bagels, toast, pancakes, waffles, or even as a dip for fruits like apples and bananas.

→ Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and ensure your powdered sugar is also dairy-free.