Name: Red Velvet Cheesecake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 105 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1¼ cups all-purpose flour.; 1 cup granulated sugar.; 1 tbsp cocoa powder.; ½ tsp baking powder.; ¼ tsp baking soda.; ¼ tsp salt.; ½ cup vegetable oil.; ½ cup buttermilk.; 1 large egg.; 1 tsp vanilla extract.; 1 tbsp red food coloring.; ½ tsp white vinegar.; 16 oz cream cheese, softened.; ½ cup granulated sugar.; 2 large eggs.; 1 tsp vanilla extract.; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced.; ½ cup strawberry preserves.; Whipped cream for garnish.

This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is an indulgent treat combining the rich flavor of red velvet cake with the creamy texture of cheesecake. Topped with fresh strawberries and a layer of strawberry preserves, this dessert is perfect for any celebration. The combination of flavors and textures creates a truly unique and delicious experience, sure to impress your guests!

This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is an exquisite dessert that combines the richness of a classic red velvet cake with the creamy decadence of cheesecake. Each slice is topped with vibrant, juicy strawberries and a luscious strawberry preserve glaze, creating a beautiful and flavorful finish.

INGREDIENTS

All-purpose flour: 1¼ cups
Granulated sugar: 1 cup
Cocoa powder: 1 tbsp
Baking powder: ½ tsp
Baking soda: ¼ tsp
Salt: ¼ tsp
Vegetable oil: ½ cup
Buttermilk: ½ cup
Large egg: 1, beaten
Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
Red food coloring: 1 tbsp
White vinegar: ½ tsp
Cream cheese: 16 oz, softened
Granulated sugar (for cheesecake): ½ cup
Eggs: 2 large, for cheesecake layer
Vanilla extract (for cheesecake): 1 tsp
Fresh strawberries: 1 cup, sliced
Strawberry preserves: ½ cup, melted
Whipped cream: for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan.
Step 2:: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3:: In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar until smooth.
Step 4:: Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely.
Step 5:: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 6:: Pour the cheesecake mixture into a greased 8-inch springform pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 40-45 minutes, until set. Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 7:: Once both the cake and cheesecake have cooled, place the red velvet cake on a serving platter. Carefully place the cheesecake layer on top of the red velvet cake.
Step 8:: In a small saucepan, heat the strawberry preserves until melted. Spread over the top of the cheesecake. Arrange the fresh strawberries on top and add a swirl of whipped cream for garnish.
Step 9:: Chill the assembled cake for an additional 1-2 hours before serving. Slice and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

Chill the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Helpful Notes

You can substitute raspberry preserves for a different fruity topping.
If you prefer a lighter cheesecake texture, fold in some whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture before baking.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Linda recommends baking the cake and cheesecake a day ahead to let the flavors meld together overnight.

Creating the Ultimate Layered Dessert

For a smooth assembly, ensure that both the cake and cheesecake layers are fully chilled before stacking. This helps prevent sliding and ensures a clean cut when slicing the cake. Using high-quality ingredients like real vanilla extract and fresh strawberries elevates the flavor.

How to Perfect Red Velvet Cake

The key to a moist red velvet cake lies in the balance of cocoa powder and the acidity from the vinegar and buttermilk. These ingredients work together to create the cake’s signature texture and flavor, while the red food coloring gives it its classic color.

FAQs

Can I freeze the cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze the cheesecake separately before assembling. However, it's best to add the strawberry topping and assemble the cake after thawing.

Can I use a different type of fruit?

Yes, raspberries or blueberries also work well with this cheesecake.

How long does the cake stay fresh?

The cake stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Do I need to use red food coloring?

The red food coloring is optional and can be omitted if preferred. The cake will still have a rich flavor, but without the classic red color.

Summary

The Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is the perfect combination of two beloved desserts: red velvet cake and cheesecake. The rich, velvety red velvet cake creates the base layer, while the creamy cheesecake forms a smooth, decadent topping. Fresh strawberries and strawberry preserves elevate the dessert with a fruity, refreshing touch, while whipped cream adds a finishing flourish. This cake is ideal for special occasions such as birthdays, holidays, or family gatherings, where it is sure to be the star of the dessert table. With its stunning appearance and delightful taste, this cheesecake is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. The cake can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient yet show-stopping dessert option.