Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

There’s something truly magical about combining the rich elegance of red velvet cake with the creamy, fruity lightness of strawberry cheesecake. My Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake recipe is the ultimate dessert for birthdays, holidays, or whenever you want to wow your guests with a visually stunning and flavor-packed treat.

This layered beauty features a moist red velvet cake base, a smooth strawberry-infused cheesecake topping, and a crown of fresh strawberries. It’s a dessert that looks like it came from a fancy bakery but is surprisingly simple to make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Two desserts in one – rich red velvet and creamy cheesecake.
• No water bath needed – the cheesecake layer is light and set with whipped cream.
• Perfect for any season – refreshing in summer and festive in winter.
• Customizable toppings – fresh berries, whipped cream, or chocolate drizzle.

Ingredients

Red Velvet Cake Base:

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

Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed (about 8–10 strawberries)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Topping:

• Fresh strawberries, halved
• Whipped cream (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Red Velvet Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk together oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar until smooth.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the cake completely in the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Cheesecake Layer

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract; beat until well combined.
3. Stir in the pureed strawberries.
4. In a separate bowl, beat whipping cream to stiff peaks.
5. Gently fold whipped cream into the strawberry-cream cheese mixture until fluffy and light.

Step 3: Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Carefully remove the cooled red velvet cake from the springform pan and place it on a serving plate.
2. Reattach the springform ring around the cake to act as a mold.
3. Spoon the strawberry cheesecake mixture over the red velvet base, smoothing the top.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Once set, remove the springform ring and top the cheesecake with fresh halved strawberries.
2. Optional: Add whipped cream swirls or drizzle with chocolate sauce.
3. Slice with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts.

Tips for Success

• Use room-temperature ingredients for the smoothest batter and filling.
• Don’t overmix the batter or the whipped cream—it can deflate or become too dense.
• Puree strawberries thoroughly for a smooth, flavorful cheesecake layer.
• For extra strawberry flavor, consider folding in chopped strawberries into the filling.

Variations & Add-Ons

• Chocolate twist: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake and cheesecake.
• Berry mix: Use a mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for the topping.
• No-bake base: Skip the cake and use a graham cracker crust for a simpler version.

Storage

• Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
• This cheesecake does not freeze well due to the whipped cream in the filling.

Perfect For:

• Valentine’s Day
• Mother’s Day
• Christmas or Easter
• Birthdays and anniversaries
• Elegant dinner parties

Final Thoughts

This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake brings together the best of two beloved desserts in one show-stopping dish. It’s rich, creamy, fruity, and festive—yet light enough to enjoy year-round. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced home cook, this recipe will make you feel like a pastry pro.