Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

Why Make This Recipe

Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert that combines a classic cake flavor with the smooth richness of cheesecake. The vibrant red color and the sweet strawberry topping make it a stunning centerpiece for any celebration. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends, this recipe is for you!

How to Make Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

Ingredients

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1 tbsp red food coloring (gel or liquid)
• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup (80ml) sour cream
• 1/3 cup (80ml) pureed fresh strawberries (or thawed frozen)
• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Optional: 1 tbsp strawberry jam for glaze

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan. In a big bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In another bowl, mix the egg, oil, buttermilk, vanilla, vinegar, and red food coloring. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool while preparing the cheesecake layer.
3. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Then mix in the vanilla, sour cream, and pureed strawberries. If desired, add a drop of coloring.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter gently over the cooled red velvet base in the same pan. Wrap the outside of your springform pan in foil to prevent leaks. Place it in a larger baking dish filled with water to create a water bath. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.
5. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
6. For the strawberry topping, combine the hulled strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. Serve the cheesecake topped with the strawberry mixture and optional strawberry jam glaze if desired.

How to Serve Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

Serve this delicious cheesecake chilled, topped with the sweet strawberry mixture. It’s perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion. You can also add fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of color and flavor.

How to Store Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cheesecake without the toppings for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips to Make Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

• Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother texture in your cheesecake.
• Make sure to fold ingredients gently to keep the cheesecake light and airy.
• If you like a stronger strawberry flavor, add more pureed strawberries to the cheesecake mix.

Variation

For a twist on this recipe, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer for extra texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cheesecake without the red food coloring?
   Yes, you can skip the food coloring. The cheesecake will still taste delicious, just without the vibrant red color.

2. Is there a substitute for buttermilk?
   Yes, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.

3. How do I know when the cheesecake is done?
   The cheesecake is done when the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. It will continue to set as it cools.