Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe

When it comes to combining two indulgent desserts into one showstopping treat, nothing quite tops this Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake. It’s the perfect fusion of rich, velvety red velvet cake paired with creamy, luscious cheesecake, all crowned with fresh strawberries and a sweet strawberry glaze. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a decadent dessert to impress family and friends, this layered masterpiece will be a guaranteed hit.

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This recipe balances the deep, slightly tangy flavor of red velvet with the smooth and sweet cheesecake, creating a dessert that looks stunning and tastes even better. Let’s break down how you can make this Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake:

• Two Desserts in One: You get both a rich, velvety red velvet cake and a creamy cheesecake in one slice—perfect for when you can’t choose between your favorites.
• Strawberry Lovers’ Dream: Fresh strawberries and a sweet strawberry glaze add a bright, fruity element that pairs beautifully with the rich cake and cheesecake layers.
• A Stunning Presentation: The vibrant red velvet cake layer, creamy cheesecake, and bright strawberries on top make this dessert as visually striking as it is delicious.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of flavors and textures is irresistible, making this dessert a guaranteed hit at any gathering.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

For the Red Velvet Cake Layer:

• All-Purpose Flour (1 ¼ cups): The foundation of the red velvet cake, providing structure and a light texture.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps keep the cake moist.
• Cocoa Powder (1 tablespoon): A small amount of cocoa gives the cake its classic red velvet flavor—a hint of chocolate but not overwhelming.
• Baking Powder (½ teaspoon): Helps the cake rise and stay light and fluffy.
• Baking Soda (¼ teaspoon): Works with the vinegar to give the cake its tender, slightly tangy crumb.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances the flavors in the cake.
• Vegetable Oil (½ cup): Keeps the cake moist and gives it a soft texture.
• Buttermilk (½ cup): Adds moisture and a slight tanginess, which is essential for the classic red velvet taste.
• Large Egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.
• Red Food Coloring (1 tablespoon): Creates the iconic deep red hue of red velvet cake.
• White Vinegar (½ teaspoon): Reacts with the baking soda to help the cake rise while also contributing to its tangy flavor.

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• Cream Cheese (16 oz, softened): The base of the cheesecake layer, adding creamy richness.
• Granulated Sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the cheesecake without overpowering the other flavors.
• Large Eggs (2): Helps the cheesecake set and gives it a smooth, velvety texture.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the flavor of the cream cheese.

For the Topping:

• Fresh Strawberries (1 cup, sliced): Adds a fresh, fruity flavor and a burst of color to the top of the cheesecake.
• Strawberry Preserves (½ cup): Creates a sweet, sticky glaze that ties together the strawberries and cheesecake.
• Whipped Cream: For garnish, providing an extra layer of indulgence and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Directions for Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Cake

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour (1 ¼ cups), granulated sugar (1 cup), cocoa powder (1 tablespoon), baking powder (½ teaspoon), baking soda (¼ teaspoon), and salt (¼ teaspoon).
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil (½ cup), buttermilk (½ cup), large egg (1), vanilla extract (1 teaspoon), red food coloring (1 tablespoon), and white vinegar (½ teaspoon). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
5. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. Lower Oven Temperature: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease an 8-inch springform pan.
2. Beat the Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese (16 oz) and granulated sugar (½ cup) together until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs (2 large eggs) one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract (1 teaspoon).
4. Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared springform pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly jiggles when gently shaken. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight, if possible) to firm up.

Step 3: Assemble the Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

1. Prepare the Cake for Assembly: Once both the red velvet cake and cheesecake are fully cooled, carefully remove the cake from the pan and place it on a serving platter.
2. Layer the Cheesecake: Gently remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and carefully place it on top of the red velvet cake layer.

Step 4: Add the Strawberry Topping

1. Make the Strawberry Glaze: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the strawberry preserves (½ cup) until melted and smooth.
2. Top the Cheesecake: Pour the melted strawberry preserves over the top of the cheesecake and spread it evenly.
3. Add Fresh Strawberries: Arrange the freshly sliced strawberries (1 cup) on top of the cheesecake layer in a decorative pattern.
4. Garnish with Whipped Cream: For an extra touch of indulgence, pipe or dollop whipped cream around the edges of the cake, or add a swirl on top for a beautiful finish.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Before serving, refrigerate the assembled cheesecake for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to firm up. Once chilled, slice and serve this heavenly Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake, and watch as everyone marvels at your baking skills!

Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake:

1. Make Ahead for Easier Assembly: The cheesecake layer can be made a day in advance and chilled overnight. This makes assembling the cake much easier.
2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for the cheesecake layer. This will ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.
3. Chill Between Steps: Both the cake and cheesecake layers need to be completely cool before assembling. Chilling the cake in the refrigerator for a bit helps prevent the layers from shifting or breaking when stacking.
4. Customize the Topping: If strawberries aren’t in season, you can switch up the topping by using other fruits, like raspberries, blackberries, or even a combination of mixed berries.

Variations and Add-Ins:

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cheesecake for an extra decadent touch.
• Different Fruit Preserves: Try using raspberry or blueberry preserves for a different flavor profile.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: If you’re a frosting lover, add a layer of cream cheese frosting between the cake and cheesecake layers for even more richness.

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Serving Suggestions:

This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is rich and flavorful on its own, but here are some ways to enhance the experience:

• With a Cup of Coffee: The richness of the cheesecake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or espresso.
• As a Celebration Cake: This is the perfect cake for special occasions like birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or anniversaries.
• With Ice Cream: Serve a slice alongside a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Conclusion:

The combination of rich red velvet cake, creamy cheesecake, and sweet, fresh strawberries makes this Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake a truly showstopping dessert. Not only does it look stunning, but the flavors and textures will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds). With a little planning and patience, you can create this impressive cake that’s perfect for any celebration, or just as a luxurious treat to enjoy at home.

Indulge in every layer each bite will leave you wanting more!