01 -
Let 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese sit at room temperature until softened, about 45 minutes. Alternatively, place the cream cheese in a small microwave-safe bowl, and microwave until very soft, about 15 seconds.
02 -
Place 1/2 cup cold heavy cream in the bowl of a stand mixer (or a medium bowl if using an electric hand mixer). Beat with the whisk attachment on high speed until stiff peaks form, 1 to 3 minutes. If using a stand mixer, transfer to another bowl. No need to clean out the original bowl.
03 -
Place the cream cheese, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (if using), and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt in the now-empty bowl (or large bowl if using an electric hand mixer). Beat with the paddle attachment on medium speed until light and very fluffy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed, about 3 minutes.
04 -
Add the whipped cream and gently fold together with a flexible spatula until combined. Transfer to a wide, shallow bowl, and spread into an even layer.
05 -
Spoon 1/3 cup strawberry preserves evenly over the top. Use the tines of a fork, toothpick, or knife to gently swirl the preserves and cheesecake together.
06 -
Serve the dip with graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or cinnamon pita chips.