Why Make This Recipe
Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is a delightful treat that perfectly combines the rich flavor of red velvet cake with the creamy texture of cheesecake and the freshness of strawberries. This dessert is not only eye-catching but also a crowd-pleaser at celebrations, gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence for yourself. With its vibrant color and luscious taste, it stands out and makes any occasion special.
How to Make Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons food coloring (red)
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup strawberries (fresh)
- 16 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 fresh strawberry (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cocoa powder, and food coloring.
- In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture.
- Once the cake is cool, slice it in half and layer it with cream cheese mixture and strawberries.
- Top with the remaining cream cheese mixture and decorate with fresh strawberries.
- Chill the cheesecake before serving.
How to Serve Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
To serve, slice the Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake into wedges and place them on dessert plates. You can add more fresh strawberries on top for a beautiful presentation. This cheesecake is perfect for sharing with family and friends at gatherings, birthdays, or holiday celebrations.
How to Store Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also cover it with plastic wrap if you don’t have a container large enough.
Tips to Make Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
- Make sure all your ingredients, especially the buttermilk and eggs, are at room temperature to help in mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until everything is combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the cream cheese mixture for the best layers.
- If you want a deeper red color, you can adjust the amount of food coloring, but be careful not to add too much.
Variation
You can switch up this recipe by using other berries such as blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity flavor. You could also try adding chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer for extra sweetness.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of food coloring?
A: Yes, you can use gel food coloring for a more vibrant color, or a different color entirely if you want to change the look of your cheesecake.
Q: Is it necessary to use buttermilk?
A: Buttermilk adds a nice tang and texture, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a little vinegar or lemon juice.
Q: Can I freeze Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the freezer for about a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.