If you adore the rich, velvety texture of classic red velvet cake combined with the bright, sweet freshness of ripe strawberries, you are in for a real treat with this Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe. Each bite offers a perfect balance of tangy cheesecake, luscious cream cheese frosting, and juicy strawberries that come together to create a dessert experience that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a slice of something extraordinary, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe brings together simple, classic ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that signature vibrant color. From the velvety cake base to the tangy cheesecake and fresh strawberry topping, these essentials create a harmonious blend you won’t want to miss.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender and soft red velvet cake layer.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and strawberry topping perfectly.
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder: Adds a subtle chocolate richness characteristic of red velvet.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise and stay light.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances flavor and enhances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature: Provides moisture and a gentle tang to the cake.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 1 large egg, room temperature: Binds ingredients and adds structure.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to both cake and cheesecake layers.
- 1 tsp white vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to leaven the cake and enhance the red color.
- 2 tbsp red food coloring: Gives that iconic vibrant red hue.
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened: For a rich, creamy cheesecake layer.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling without graininess.
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Whipped to light peaks to fold into the cheesecake for airy texture.
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: Brings bright, fresh flavor for the topping.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the strawberries and helps release their juices.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Adds zing to balance sweetness in the strawberries.
- Fresh strawberries and whipped cream: For garnish and extra flair when serving.
How to Make Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe
Step 1: Make the Red Velvet Cake Layer
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your 9-inch springform or round cake pan to ensure your cake releases easily after baking. In a medium bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients—flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt—to create an even base. Meanwhile, in a separate large bowl, combine the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring, whisking until the mixture is completely smooth and vibrant. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing just until everything is combined to keep the cake tender. Pour this luscious batter into your prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool fully—this step is crucial before moving on to the cheesecake layer to prevent melting.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
While the cake cools, it’s time to whip up the creamy cheesecake layer that gives this dessert its rich, dreamy texture. Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract in a large bowl until the mixture is luxuriously smooth and without lumps. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring it holds its shape beautifully. This whipped cream lightens the cheesecake mixture, making it delightfully airy and not too dense. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, then spread this velvety layer evenly over your cooled red velvet cake base, setting the stage for the fresh strawberry topping.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
To create a topping bursting with juicy sweetness and a hint of brightness, combine your sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice in a bowl. Stir gently to coat every slice, then let the mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting time helps the strawberries release their natural juices, creating a luscious syrup that enhances the flavor and moistness of the dessert. When ready, spoon the strawberries and their syrup evenly over the cheesecake layer, spreading them into a gorgeous, mouth-watering layer that promises delightful bursts of strawberry flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Refrigerate your Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe for at least two hours to allow the layers to set beautifully, making it easier to slice and serve. Just before presenting this masterpiece to your guests or family, adorn the top with some fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream. These garnishes add an extra touch of elegance, freshness, and creaminess, complementing the intricate layers beneath and making each serving a looker as well as a treat!
How to Serve Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh strawberries and whipped cream are the classic, go-to garnishes that effortlessly elevate this dessert. The strawberries not only add color and texture contrast but also intensify the fruity freshness, while the whipped cream adds that rich, silky finish that melts in your mouth. For extra flair, consider a light sprinkle of cocoa powder or even some white chocolate curls to highlight the cake’s signature character.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides like a crisp green salad with citrus vinaigrette or a delicate scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The cool creaminess of the ice cream or the refreshing tang of the salad offsets the richness of the dish, offering a well-rounded meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this delight in individual glass jars or parfait cups for charming single servings that show off the distinct layers of red velvet cake, cheesecake, and strawberry topping. Alternatively, consider plating slices alongside edible flowers or a drizzle of strawberry coulis for an elegant dessert presentation that wows and invites compliments.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled, cover the Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining its freshness and deliciousness. This makes it perfect for prepping ahead of time or saving some sweet moments for later.
Freezing
If you want to save this dessert for longer, it freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole dessert tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen, it can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
Because this dessert features fresh strawberries and delicate cream layers, reheating is not recommended as it may alter the texture and flavor. Instead, enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries give the best texture and flavor for this recipe, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing with sugar and lemon juice to avoid excess liquid making the dessert soggy.
Is there a vegan version of the Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese, coconut cream, and flax egg for binding. Careful with the food coloring and baking soda interactions; test your substitutes accordingly for the best results.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend suitable for cakes. Ensure the blend you use includes xanthan gum or another binder for the right texture.
How do I get the perfect red velvet color?
The combination of red food coloring and white vinegar reacting with cocoa powder brings out that classic red velvet shade. Using high-quality food coloring and following the ingredient measurements carefully will ensure you get a vibrant color every time.
Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?
Definitely! This recipe scales well. Just double all ingredients and bake in a larger pan or two separate pans, adjusting baking time slightly depending on the size and depth of the pans.
Final Thoughts
Making the Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe is like creating a little slice of joy that combines the comforts of rich cake and creamy cheesecake with the fresh zing of strawberries. Every step is rewarding and the result is a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—it’s a wonderful way to bring a little extra sweetness and color into any day or celebration.
Print
Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Red Velvet Strawberry Delight is a luscious layered dessert featuring a moist red velvet cake base, a creamy no-bake cheesecake layer, and a fresh strawberry topping infused with sugar and lemon juice. The dessert is finished with fresh strawberries and whipped cream for a beautiful and delicious presentation, perfect for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients
Red Velvet Cake Layer
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Garnish
- Fresh strawberries
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Make the Red Velvet Cake Layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform or round cake pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, whisk the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before proceeding.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and light in texture. Spread the cheesecake layer evenly over the cooled red velvet cake layer.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping: Combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a bowl. Stir to coat the strawberries thoroughly and let sit for 10-15 minutes to release their juices. Spoon the strawberries along with their syrup evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Garnish and Serve: Refrigerate the layered dessert for at least 2 hours to allow it to set properly. Before serving, garnish with fresh whole strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Make sure the red velvet cake is completely cool before adding the cheesecake layer to prevent melting.
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and cream cheese mixture.
- For best results, chill the dessert for a minimum of 2 hours but overnight refrigeration will enhance flavors and texture.
- Fresh strawberries can be substituted with frozen, but fresh is preferred for topping.
- This dessert is best served chilled and consumed within 2-3 days for freshness.
