Get ready to fall in love with the luscious harmony of flavors in this Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe. Combining the rich, velvety texture of a classic red velvet cake with the creamy, dreamy allure of cheesecake and topped off with a fresh, vibrant strawberry glaze, this dessert is nothing short of spectacular. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something truly special. Trust me, once you dive into this cake, you’ll wonder why every dessert isn’t a delightful mix of red velvet and strawberries!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe plays a star role, creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dessert unforgettable. You’ll see how simple staples like flour and sugar evolve into something extraordinary with the magic of cream cheese, fresh strawberries, and a splash of red food coloring.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of your red velvet cake, ensuring a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Adds the perfect balance of sweetness throughout all layers.
- Cocoa powder: Just a hint brings that classic subtle chocolate flavor essential for red velvet.
- Baking powder: Your trusty leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each bite pop.
- Unsalted butter: Brings richness to the cake base while keeping moisture in check.
- Eggs: Provide structure and support the creamy cheesecake layer.
- Vanilla extract: A warm flavor enhancer tying everything together.
- Red food coloring: Creates that iconic red velvet hue that’s as delightful to the eyes as the taste buds.
- Buttermilk: Adds tang and tenderness, giving the cake its signature softness.
- White vinegar: Reacts with baking powder to achieve a fluffy texture.
- Cream cheese: The rich, silky base of the cheesecake layer for creamy indulgence.
- Sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang to lighten the cheesecake’s richness.
- Strawberries: Fresh and vibrant for the strawberry topping that complements the cake’s richness perfectly.
- Lemon juice: Brightens up the strawberry glaze with a fresh citrus zing.
How to Make Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when your batter is ready, it will bake evenly from the moment it goes in. Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients for the Cake Base
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients create the structure and subtle chocolate undertones essential for the red velvet layer’s signature taste.
Step 3: Incorporate the Butter
Add the softened unsalted butter to your dry mixture and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key to achieving a tender crumb in your cake base, making sure the butter is evenly distributed without overmixing.
Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients for the Cake
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, buttermilk, and white vinegar. This vibrant liquid mixture not only colors your cake beautifully but adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here — you want to keep the batter light and fluffy.
Step 6: Pour and Smooth the Red Velvet Batter
Transfer the red velvet batter into your prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly to create a flat base. This layer will hold the soaring cheesecake beautifully, so make it nice and even.
Step 7: Prepare the Cheesecake Batter
In a clean bowl, beat the cream cheese until perfectly smooth and creamy. Then gradually add sugar, continuing to beat until everything is luxuriously combined. This creamy base forms the luscious heart of your cheesecake layer.
Step 8: Incorporate Eggs and Other Ingredients into Cheesecake Batter
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each to keep the batter silky and airy. Then stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour until everything is smooth and just blended.
Step 9: Layer the Cheesecake over the Red Velvet Cake Base
Pour your cheesecake batter carefully over the cake layer in the pan. This beautiful double-decker effect is what makes this Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe so visually stunning and irresistible.
Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Pop your cake into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’re looking for a cheesecake center that’s just set yet retains a slight jiggle — this guarantees creamy texture without cracking.
Step 11: Cool and Chill
Once baked, let your cake cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the cheesecake layer to firm up perfectly.
Step 12: Make the Strawberry Topping
While your cheesecake chills, combine fresh sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Gently cook until the strawberries release their juices and thicken slightly into a luscious topping.
Step 13: Cool and Spread Strawberry Topping
Allow the strawberry glaze to cool completely before spreading it over your chilled cheesecake. This fresh topping adds a vibrant pop of color and flavor that complements the rich layers below.
Step 14: Remove from Pan and Serve
Carefully release the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving platter. Now it’s time to slice, serve, and prepare for everyone to ask for your recipe!
How to Serve Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes elevates both the look and flavor of your Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe. Consider fresh whole strawberries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a swirl of whipped cream around the edges for extra indulgence and charm.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake pairs beautifully with light, fruity sides such as a simple mixed berry salad or a refreshing mint-infused berry compote. These complements keep the dessert experience bright and balanced without overwhelming its rich character.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not slice this cheesecake into charming mini portions for a party, or serve alongside a dollop of vanilla bean ice cream? You can also add edible flowers or drizzle a little melted white chocolate on top to personalize your dessert presentation stylishly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making it perfect for enjoying a few extra slices later.
Freezing
If you want to save your cheesecake longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain that creamy texture.
Reheating
Cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warmer, let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can alter the texture and cause separation in the creamy layers.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
Frozen strawberries can work in a pinch, but fresh strawberries will always give you a fresher flavor and better texture for that vibrant topping.
Is it necessary to use red food coloring?
While red food coloring gives the iconic deep red hue, you can also experiment with natural alternatives like beet juice for a more natural tint.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substituting dairy ingredients in the cheesecake layer is tricky for maintaining texture, but using plant-based cream cheese and yogurt might work with some adjustments.
How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake layer?
Baking at a moderate temperature and avoiding overmixing helps prevent cracks. Also, chilling the cheesecake thoroughly before serving lets it set without breaking.
Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?
Absolutely! Just use a larger pan and adjust baking time accordingly, keeping an eye on the cake’s doneness through visual cues rather than just the clock.
Final Thoughts
This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe is a true celebration of flavors and textures, combining the classic charm of red velvet cake with the creamy elegance of cheesecake and the fresh zest of strawberries. If you’re looking to wow your friends, family, or even yourself, this recipe is your golden ticket. Give it a try, savor every bite, and get ready for compliments coming your way!
Print
Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 30m
- Cook Time: 1h 0m
- Total Time: 5h 30m
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake combines the rich, velvety flavor of classic red velvet cake with a creamy cheesecake layer, topped with a fresh and tangy strawberry sauce. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a decadent yet fruit-infused dessert.
Ingredients
For the Red Velvet Cake Base:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- â…“ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cheesecake after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients for Cake Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Add Butter: Add the softened unsalted butter into the dry mixture and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This provides the cake base with moisture and tenderness.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, buttermilk, and white vinegar until well combined.
- Combine Batter: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Pour Cake Batter: Pour the red velvet batter into the prepared springform pan and spread it evenly to form the cake base.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain for a creamy cheesecake layer.
- Add Sugar and Eggs: Gradually add granulated sugar to the cream cheese, beating until creamy. Then, add eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and the flour until the batter is smooth and homogeneous.
- Assemble Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the red velvet base in the springform pan.
- Bake: Bake the assembled cheesecake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly when gently shaken. This ensures the perfect creamy texture.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to set completely and enhance flavor.
- Prepare Strawberry Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cool Topping: Remove the strawberry topping from heat and let it cool to room temperature before using.
- Top Cheesecake: Once the cheesecake is chilled, spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over it, adding a vibrant and tangy finish.
- Serve: Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan and transfer the cheesecake to a serving platter. Slice and serve chilled for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Ensure all cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain the light texture of the cake and cheesecake layers.
- Use fresh strawberries for the topping to achieve the best flavor and texture.
- Letting the cheesecake chill overnight allows flavors to meld and texture to set perfectly.
- If red food coloring is not available, beet juice can be used as a natural alternative.
