Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

A Decadent Dessert Fusion

Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is the perfect combination of two beloved desserts: the rich, cocoa-infused red velvet cake and the creamy, luscious cheesecake. This showstopping dessert is layered with smooth cheesecake, moist red velvet cake, and a sweet strawberry topping, making it ideal for special occasions, holidays, or whenever you want to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent and visually stunning – The vibrant red velvet layers contrast beautifully with the creamy cheesecake and bright strawberry topping.
• Perfect for celebrations – Whether it’s a birthday, Valentine’s Day, or an elegant dinner party, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Balanced flavors – The slight tanginess of the cheesecake complements the sweet and mildly chocolatey red velvet cake, while the strawberries add a refreshing touch.

Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ cup water

For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix until incorporated.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set.
5. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before assembling.

Step 2: Prepare the Red Velvet Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
5. Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Topping

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and water.
2. Stir and cook until the mixture thickens and strawberries soften (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely before using.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)

1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one red velvet cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting (if using).
2. Gently place the chilled cheesecake layer on top.
3. Add the second red velvet cake layer.
4. Spread the strawberry topping over the top, letting some drizzle down the sides.
5. If using frosting, pipe decorative swirls around the edges.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Ganache – Drizzle melted chocolate over the cake for an extra indulgent touch.
• Mixed Berry Topping – Substitute strawberries with a blend of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries.
• Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts between layers for added texture.
• No Frosting? No Problem! – This cake is delicious even without frosting, with just the strawberry topping as the finishing touch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12–14 slices
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including cheesecake and cake layers)
• Cooling/Chilling Time: At least 4 hours

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: Not necessary, as this cake is best served chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

To avoid cracks, bake the cheesecake in a water bath or place a pan of hot water in the oven while baking to keep moisture levels high.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cheesecake and cake layers a day in advance and assemble the next day.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a substitute by mixing ½ cup of milk with 1 ½ teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?

Yes, but let them thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.

What’s the best way to slice this cake neatly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping it clean between slices for smooth cuts.

Can I use a boxed red velvet cake mix?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a boxed mix can work for the red velvet layers.

How do I make this a no-bake cheesecake?

Instead of baking, prepare the cheesecake filling and chill it in the fridge until set (about 4 hours) before assembling.

Can I make this in cupcake form?

Yes! Use cupcake liners and layer mini cakes with cheesecake filling in between.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper, but removing the cheesecake might be trickier.

How do I keep my red velvet cake moist?

Don’t overbake, and wrap the cake layers in plastic wrap while cooling to retain moisture.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is a stunning and delicious dessert that combines the best of cheesecake and cake in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging your sweet tooth, this dessert is guaranteed to impress. With its velvety texture, rich flavor, and vibrant strawberry topping, it’s a treat worth making!

Print