Description
This Strawberry Red Velvet Cheesecake is a decadent layered dessert combining moist red velvet cake, a creamy cheesecake center, and a vibrant strawberry topping. Finished with rich cream cheese frosting, it’s perfect for celebrations or special occasions, delivering a stunning presentation and irresistible flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Red Velvet Cake Layers:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the vanilla extract, eggs, and sour cream, mixing until well combined.
- Prepare the Pan for Cheesecake: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Bake the Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the center is just set. Remove from oven and allow it to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set firmly.
- Prepare Red Velvet Cake Layers: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy removal of the cakes.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt for even distribution.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring until combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until the batter is smooth and well integrated.
- Bake Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling.
- Make Strawberry Topping: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the strawberries soften and release their juices. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy and spreadable.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one red velvet cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
- Add Cheesecake Layer: Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top of the frosted red velvet cake layer. Spread another thin layer of frosting over the cheesecake to help hold layers together.
- Top with Second Cake Layer: Place the second red velvet cake layer on top of the cheesecake. Frost the entire cake evenly with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
- Add Strawberry Topping: Spoon the cooled strawberry topping over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip enticingly down the sides.
- Serve: Slice and serve this luscious Strawberry Red Velvet Cheesecake. Perfect for impressing guests and enjoying a rich, flavorful treat.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for smooth frosting.
- Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor in the topping; frozen strawberries may result in excess water.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake layer until firm before assembling to prevent layers from sliding.
- Allow the assembled cake to chill for at least 1 hour before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Red food coloring can be adjusted to preferred intensity.
