Indulging in the delightful combination of red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake is nothing short of blissful. The vibrant red hue of the cake not only catches the eye but adds a layer of fun and festivity to any occasion. The addition of fresh strawberries and strawberry preserves brings a burst of fruity freshness and a touch of elegance, making this dessert perfect for celebrations, casual gatherings, or even just a personal treat. This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is a showstopper that merges flavors and textures beautifully, creating a dessert experience that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share it.
Why Make This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it combines the rich, buttery flavor of red velvet cake with the smooth, velvety texture of cheesecake, resulting in a dessert that is wonderfully indulgent yet balanced. Secondly, the striking red color makes it a stunning centerpiece for any occasion, from birthdays to anniversaries, or holiday gatherings. The sweet, juicy strawberries add brightness and enhance the overall taste experience. Plus, it’s not just delicious—it’s a feast for the eyes, elevating your dessert game to a new level!
How to Make Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
Creating this dessert may seem complex, but it’s quite manageable even for beginner bakers. By following a few straightforward steps, you’ll be rewarded with a deliciously rich cheesecake that will become a loved family recipe. The combination of moist red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake, topped with fresh strawberries and strawberry preserves, will surely leave your guests singing praises!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries
- Strawberry preserves
- Optional: Whipped cream for serving
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan to ensure your cake releases easily after baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth. Combine these wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed.
- Divide the red velvet cake batter evenly between the prepared springform pan and an additional 9-inch cake pan (to create the cheesecake top). Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.
- For the cheesecake layer, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together in a bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring to mix well after each addition. Pour this cheesecake batter over the cooled red velvet layer in the springform pan.
- Bake the cheesecake for 50-60 minutes, allowing it to set. Once done, let it cool at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours or, better yet, overnight.
- When you’re ready to serve, generously top the cheesecake with fresh strawberries and drizzle with strawberry preserves. Optionally, add whipped cream around the edges for an extra touch of sweetness.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (1 slice, assuming 12 servings):
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 32g
- Protein: 7g
How to Serve Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
This cheesecake is perfect for formal celebrations, holiday gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence after a weeknight dinner. Pair it with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a comforting treat. For special occasions, consider serving it on a beautiful cake stand with extra strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry sauce for an extra wow factor!
How to Store Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
To keep your cheesecake as fresh as possible, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 5-7 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They’ll be good for up to 3 months, just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing; it ensures a smoother batter.
- Don’t overbeat your cheesecake once you add the eggs, as excess air can create cracks during baking.
- Let both the cheesecake and cake layers cool completely before assembling—they work best when at room temperature.
- Consider using homemade strawberry preserves for an authentic touch, or opt for store-bought for convenience.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold in some mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter for a delightful chocolatey surprise.
- Nutty Addition: Add crushed pecans or walnuts to the red velvet cake batter for added texture and flavor.
- Festival-Centric: Use seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries in place of strawberries to switch up the flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake actually tastes better after a day in the fridge. Prepare it a day in advance and serve it cold.What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before using.Can I use a different food coloring?
Absolutely! While red is traditional for red velvet, you can have fun with other colors for different occasions.
Conclusion
This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that will delight everyone who tastes it. Its creamy richness and fruity freshness make it an unforgettable dessert perfect for any gathering. Don’t hesitate to try making this stunning dessert; it’s easier than it looks and absolutely worth the effort. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!