Description
This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake combines a rich and creamy cheesecake layer with moist, vibrant red velvet cake layers and a luscious strawberry topping. Finished with a smooth cream cheese frosting, this show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions and celebrations, delivering the classic flavors of red velvet cake and cheesecake in one elegant treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Red Velvet Cake Layers
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
Strawberry Filling/Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a silkier consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line an 8-inch or 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until fully incorporated. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set. Allow it to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Red Velvet Cake Layers: Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternating with the buttermilk mixture into the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let the cakes cool completely.
- Prepare the Strawberry Filling/Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and water. Let the mixture simmer gently. Mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry, then add it to the strawberry mixture. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes or until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and cool completely before using.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while beating until the frosting is fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and optional heavy cream and continue to beat until the frosting reaches a silky consistency.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one red velvet cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on top, then add the chilled cheesecake layer. Spread another thin layer of frosting over the cheesecake and place the second red velvet cake layer on top. Frost the entire cake smoothly with the remaining cream cheese frosting. Top the cake with the strawberry filling and garnish with fresh strawberries for a beautiful and delicious finish.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer and frosting.
- Chilling the cheesecake layer well before assembling helps maintain clean layers when slicing.
- You can prepare the strawberry topping a day ahead and refrigerate it to enhance the flavors.
- For a more intense red color, adjust the amount of red food coloring as desired.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and butter for best flavor and texture in cheesecake and frosting.
- If desired, garnish with whole fresh strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar for presentation.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American