Indulgent Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This red velvet strawberry cheesecake brings together the best of both worlds: the moist, rich flavor of red velvet cake and the creamy, smooth texture of cheesecake. The addition of fresh strawberries adds a refreshing, fruity contrast, while the caramelized sugar topping gives it a stunning finish. The recipe is easy to follow and delivers a dessert that looks as impressive as it tastes. Whether you're preparing for a special occasion or just indulging in a luxurious treat, this cheesecake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups red velvet cake crumbs
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup sugar (for topping)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the red velvet cake crumbs and melted butter until combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch round pan to form the crust.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth and well-combined.
4. Gently fold in the chopped fresh strawberries to incorporate them evenly into the cheesecake batter.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust in the pan.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the center is slightly firm to the touch.
7. Allow the cheesecake to cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
8. Before serving, sprinkle ¼ cup sugar over the top of the cheesecake and caramelize the sugar with a kitchen torch for a beautiful, crispy topping.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings, depending on portion size.

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Bake time: 50-60 minutes
• Chill time: At least 4 hours
• Total time: 5 hours 20 minutes (including chilling)

Variations

• Crust variation: If you prefer a different crust, you can substitute the red velvet cake crumbs with crushed graham crackers or chocolate cookies for a different flavor profile.
• Berry topping: Instead of caramelizing sugar, top the cheesecake with fresh mixed berries or a strawberry compote for a fresh and vibrant finish.
• Chocolate lovers: Add chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate to the cheesecake mixture before baking for a rich chocolate twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the cheesecake refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
• Freezing: If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the cheesecake (without the caramelized sugar topping) for up to 1-2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: It’s best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it at room temperature, remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before adding to the cheesecake mixture.

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the red velvet cake crust a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to assemble the cheesecake.

What can I use if I don’t have a kitchen torch for the sugar topping?

If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the cheesecake under a broiler for a few seconds to caramelize the sugar. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Can I use a different type of cake for the crust?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other cake crumbs, such as chocolate or vanilla, depending on your preference.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the cheesecake for 4 hours?

While refrigerating the cheesecake for at least 4 hours helps it set properly and enhances the flavor, you can refrigerate it overnight for the best results.

Can I make this cheesecake without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a vegan egg replacer or use a mixture of silken tofu and cornstarch for a similar creamy texture.

How do I know when the cheesecake is fully baked?

The cheesecake should be slightly firm to the touch in the center, and there should be a slight wobble when you gently shake the pan.

Can I add other fruits to the cheesecake filling?

Yes, you can mix in other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a twist. Just ensure the fruits are chopped and not too watery.

How can I make the cheesecake more flavorful?

For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice or zest to the cheesecake filling or incorporate a splash of almond extract along with the vanilla.

Can I make this cheesecake in advance?

Yes, this cheesecake is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to develop and the cheesecake to set nicely.

Conclusion

This indulgent red velvet strawberry cheesecake is a perfect combination of rich, creamy, and fruity flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you're hosting a special event or treating yourself to a luxurious dessert, this cheesecake delivers both visually and in taste. Easy to make yet incredibly impressive, it's sure to become a favorite go-to recipe for years to come. Enjoy the delightful marriage of red velvet cake, cheesecake, and strawberries, and treat yourself to a slice of indulgence!