Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAmid the hustle and bustle of life, nothing compares to the joy of creating something that not only tastes good but looks incredible too. That’s where my Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake comes in—a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any celebration or simply a sweet escape from the ordinary. This recipe combines the classic richness of red velvet cake with a creamy strawberry cheesecake filling, making it a feast for the eyes and the palate. One of the best perks? It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, so you can impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to brighten up any gathering with its vibrant colors and delightful flavors. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game and make a stunning centerpiece for your next occasion? Let’s dive into this dreamy dessert delight! Why Is This Cheesecake So Special? Luxurious Flavors: Experience the decadent blend of rich red velvet and creamy strawberry cheesecake—perfect for elevating any gathering! Visually Appealing: The vibrant red cake beautifully contrasts with the pink filling, making it a stunning centerpiece. Easy to Prepare: Don’t worry if you’re not a baking expert; this cheesecake is surprisingly simple and quick to make! Crowd-Pleaser: It’s ideal for celebrations, ensuring that your guests will rave about this culinary art. Versatile Variations: Feel free to get creative by swapping berries or adding a chocolate ganache for an extra twist, just like my Cherry Cheesecake Puppy or Cookies N Cream Oreo Cheesecake. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a holiday feast or a casual weekend, this showstopper dessert will always impress! Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Ingredients For the Red Velvet Cake All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a less refined alternative. Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents; do not substitute without adjusting other ingredients. Salt – Enhances flavor; do not omit for the best taste. Cocoa Powder – Adds a hint of chocolate flavor; a vegan variant can be used if preferred. Vegetable Oil – Moisture source; melted coconut oil works well as a substitute. Buttermilk – Adds tenderness; substitute with milk and a tablespoon of vinegar if necessary. Eggs – Provides structure; for a vegan alternative, use flaxseed meal mixed with water. Red Food Coloring – Gives the cake its signature hue; gel coloring is a great substitute for liquid forms. Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; using pure extract yields the best results. White Vinegar – Reacts with baking soda for fluffiness; can be replaced with lemon juice if needed. For the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling Cream Cheese – The creamy base of the filling; non-dairy options are available for a vegan alternative. Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and smooth texture; granulated sugar can be blended to serve as a substitute. Vanilla Extract – A flavor enhancer; pure vanilla is recommended for deeper flavor. Fresh Strawberries – Offers flavor and visual appeal; frozen strawberries can be used if fully thawed and drained. Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds richness; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option. This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a stunning culinary masterpiece that will make every occasion a celebration! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or cooking spray for easy removal later. Line the bottom with parchment paper for added protection. This preparation ensures that your Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake will release beautifully once baked. Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Cake Batter In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder for the red velvet layer. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients—vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar—until smooth. Gently combine both mixtures until just blended, being careful not to overmix to achieve a light and fluffy texture. Step 3: Bake the Red Velvet Layer Pour the red velvet cake batter into the prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling While the red velvet cake cools, prepare the strawberry cheesecake filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Fold in the pureed fresh strawberries to create a stunning pink mixture that will enhance the flavors of your Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake. Step 5: Whip the Cream In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This step adds richness and volume to your cheesecake filling. Once whipped, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese and strawberry mixture to create a light, airy texture. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream while doing this. Step 6: Assemble the Cheesecake Once the red velvet layer has cooled completely, remove it from the springform pan and place it on a serving dish. Spread the strawberry cheesecake filling evenly over the top, smoothing it into an attractive layer. This combination of flavors and colors is what makes the Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake so appealing and undoubtedly a showstopper. Step 7: Chill to Set Cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This chilling time allows the filling to set properly. When ready to serve, the cheesecake should be firm but creamy, making it easy to slice and serve to family and friends. Step 8: Garnish and Serve Before serving, garnish your cheesecake with halved fresh strawberries and, if desired, a dollop of whipped cream. This adds a lovely fresh touch and enhances the dessert’s presentation. Your fabulous Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is now ready to impress everyone at your gathering! How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Fridge: Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from absorbing any other food odors. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Assembly: If you’ve already assembled the cheesecake, it can be frozen before garnishing with strawberries and whipped cream. Just wrap it well and follow the above freezing method. Reheating: There’s no need to reheat the cheesecake; it’s best enjoyed chilled! Simply slice and serve straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat. Expert Tips for Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and even batter for the Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake. Cool Completely: Allow the red velvet cake to cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling; this prevents melting and ensures a beautiful layered look. Quality Strawberries: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the filling to enhance flavor and visual appeal; avoid excess moisture by thoroughly draining thawed frozen strawberries. Gentle Folding: When mixing the whipped cream into the cheesecake filling, fold gently to maintain the light, airy texture that makes this dessert so delightful. Chill Properly: Allow the cheesecake to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best texture; this ensures the layers set beautifully for slicing. Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe, enhancing flavors and textures to suit your taste! Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a suitable option that doesn’t compromise taste. Lower Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup or a sugar substitute for a healthier sweet option. Chocolate Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the strawberry cheesecake filling for a delightful chocolate twist. It creates a rich contrast that pairs beautifully with the strawberry flavor. Berry Medley: Swap out strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity flair. Each berry lends a unique taste that’ll surprise your taste buds! Vegan Option: Use non-dairy cream cheese and coconut cream to make this dessert completely vegan-friendly, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice. Nutty Texture: Incorporate crushed walnuts or pecans into the cake batter for added crunch and a delicious nutty flavor. The texture makes each bite an adventure! White Chocolate Ganache: Pour a layer of white chocolate ganache over the cheesecake for extra sweetness and elegance, making it even more decadent. Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cake batter for a warm spiced twist, complementing the flavors of the cheesecake perfectly. Want to try another delightful dessert? Check out my Black Velvet Cake or whip up a light and refreshing Strawberry Cake Refreshingly. Your dessert adventures await! Make Ahead Options These Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake preparations are a fantastic way to save time in the kitchen, especially for busy weeknights or special occasions! You can bake the red velvet cake layer up to 24 hours in advance and store it tightly wrapped at room temperature to maintain moisture. The strawberry cheesecake filling can also be prepared ahead—just refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the cheesecake by spreading the filling on the cooled cake, refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set, and garnish with fresh strawberries. This ensures your cheesecake stays just as delicious and visually stunning for your guests, allowing you to enjoy the celebration worry-free! What to Serve with Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake? Imagine delighting your guests not just with a show-stopping cheesecake, but a perfectly curated meal that lingers long after the last bite. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Paired with a sauce or gravy, they add a rich and cozy comfort element to the table. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and charred, this veggie brings a fresh and vibrant crunch that balances dessert’s sweetness. Classic Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the dense cheesecake. Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits offers a light, palate-cleansing option that beautifully complements the cake’s richness. Red Wine: A glass of fruity red wine, like a Merlot, enhances the flavors of chocolate and strawberry, creating a delightful harmony. Sparkling Water with Lemon: Keep it refreshing—this bubbly beverage cleanses your palate and elevates the entire dining experience! These pairings not only enhance the indulgence of your Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake but also create a memorable dining experience for those you cherish. Enjoy! Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right strawberries for my cheesecake? Absolutely! Look for fresh, ripe strawberries that are bright red and firm to the touch. You want strawberries that are aromatic and free of dark spots or bruises. If you’re using frozen strawberries, make sure to fully thaw and drain them to prevent excess moisture in your filling. How should I store leftovers of the Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake? To keep your delicious cheesecake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and prevents it from picking up odors from other foods in the fridge. Can I freeze the cheesecake, and how do I do it? Certainly! For freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. You can freeze them for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight. If you’ve assembled the cheesecake fully, you can freeze it before adding garnishes. Just wrap it securely and follow the same freezing method. What if my cake doesn’t rise properly? If you find your cake has not risen as expected, it could be due to a few reasons. Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh—check expiration dates! Also, double-check the ingredient measurements and be careful not to overmix your batter, which can lead to a dense cake. If your ingredients are stored correctly and are within their expiration dates, you should achieve a lovely rise. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this recipe? Very! For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option, coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar for a less refined sweetener, and opt for non-dairy cream cheese and coconut cream for a vegan version. What are some variations I can make to this cheesecake? The more the merrier! You could add mini chocolate chips to the cheesecake filling for a chocolate flavor, or swap strawberries for seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries. You could even drizzle a layer of white chocolate ganache on top for an elegant touch. Let your creativity shine! Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake: A Showstopper Dessert Creation This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake blends rich flavors and stunning visuals, perfect for any celebration or sweet escape. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 5 hours hrs Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Red Velvet Cake2 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.1 cup Granulated Sugar Can be replaced with coconut sugar for a less refined alternative.1 teaspoon Baking Powder Essential leavening agent.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Essential leavening agent.1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.1 tablespoon Cocoa Powder Adds a hint of chocolate flavor.1 cup Vegetable Oil Melted coconut oil works well as a substitute.1 cup Buttermilk Substitute with milk and a tablespoon of vinegar if necessary.2 large Eggs For a vegan alternative, use flaxseed meal mixed with water.2 tablespoons Red Food Coloring Gel coloring is a great substitute for liquid forms.2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Using pure extract yields the best results.1 teaspoon White Vinegar Can be replaced with lemon juice if needed.For the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling16 ounces Cream Cheese Non-dairy options are available for a vegan alternative.1 cup Powdered Sugar Granulated sugar can be blended to serve as a substitute.2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Pure vanilla is recommended for deeper flavor.2 cups Fresh Strawberries Frozen strawberries can be used if fully thawed and drained.1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Equipment 9-inch springform panMixing bowlselectric mixersifterWire Rack Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan with butter or cooking spray.Sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder in a large mixing bowl.In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients until smooth and combine with the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix.Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.Beat the cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla until well combined. Fold in pureed strawberries.Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form and gently fold into the cream cheese mixture.Remove the cooled red velvet layer from the pan and spread the cheesecake filling evenly on top.Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. Garnish with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. Allow the red velvet cake to cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
