Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

The Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is a fusion of two iconic desserts, combining the rich texture of red velvet cake with the smooth, creamy layers of cheesecake. Not only does this dessert look stunning with its vibrant red color and decadent layers, but it also offers a flavor experience that is rich, tangy, and indulgent. Whether you’re looking to impress at a special gathering or treat yourself on a quiet evening, this dessert is perfect for any occasion.

The combination of red velvet and cheesecake offers a unique and memorable flavor profile. The cocoa powder in the cake layer adds a hint of chocolatey goodness, while the cream cheese in the cheesecake layer provides the rich, tangy base that is characteristic of this dessert style. Topping it off with a strawberry mousse layer and whipped cream creates a perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and slightly tart flavors. This article will walk you through the origins of the red velvet cake, the evolution into this cheesecake version, and a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this luxurious dessert.

If you’re curious about how the classic red velvet cake came to be, you can learn more about its history in this detailed article on red velvet cake origins. Also, if you need some helpful tips on making a perfect cheesecake, check out this guide on making smooth cheesecake.

A Brief History of Red Velvet Cake

Before diving into the recipe for Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake, it’s important to understand the history of red velvet cake—a cake that has earned a place of honor in American dessert history. The red velvet cake was first popularized in the 1920s, with many sources attributing its origin to the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City. The vibrant red color was initially a result of the reaction between the acidic ingredients in the cake and the cocoa powder used, but over time, food coloring was added to enhance the color.

Though red velvet cake was originally known for its smooth texture and striking color, its rise in popularity can be credited to its appearance on special occasions like Valentine’s Day, Christmas, and even at wedding receptions. Today, it remains one of the most beloved cakes in the world, with endless variations and flavors.

If you’re looking for a more in-depth explanation of the red velvet cake’s history, here’s an excellent article on its origins: Red Velvet Cake: A History.

Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake: A Perfect Fusion

The beauty of Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake lies in the way it blends two beloved desserts into one showstopper. The red velvet layer brings the soft, slightly sweet cocoa flavor, while the cheesecake layer offers a luscious, creamy base that contrasts perfectly with the cake. By adding strawberries into the mix—either through a strawberry mousse layer or a fresh strawberry topping—the dessert gets a fresh burst of fruity flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the cheesecake and the subtle chocolate of the red velvet cake.

In fact, incorporating fruit flavors into the traditional cheesecake is a popular trend. The strawberry flavor, in particular, adds a refreshing tanginess that pairs beautifully with the creamy richness of the cheesecake and the moist texture of the red velvet cake. By using fresh strawberries or a strawberry extract, you can infuse the dessert with natural sweetness that doesn’t overpower the other flavors.

To learn more about the process of blending fruits into cheesecake recipes, here’s a great resource on how to make fruit-flavored cheesecakes.

Essential Ingredients for Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

Making this delicious Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake requires a few key ingredients, each playing an important role in creating the dessert’s perfect balance of textures and flavors. Let’s break down the ingredients by the layers and components.

Red Velvet Cake Layer:

The red velvet cake layer is the first part of this dessert and provides the base for the cheesecake and strawberry mousse layers.

• All-purpose flour: The main dry ingredient for the cake.

• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake.

• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the cake a rich chocolate flavor without overpowering the red color.

• Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help the cake rise.

• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

• Vegetable oil: Adds moisture to the cake.

• Buttermilk: Gives the cake its signature tanginess.

• Eggs: Help bind the ingredients together.

• Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.

• Red food coloring: Gives the cake its vibrant red color.

Strawberry Cheesecake Layer:

The cheesecake layer is the heart of this dessert. It’s rich, creamy, and smooth, providing the ideal contrast to the light, fluffy red velvet cake.

• Cream cheese: The base of the cheesecake layer, providing the signature creamy texture.

• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake.

• Sour cream: Adds tanginess to the cheesecake.

• Mascarpone cheese: Adds richness and smoothness to the texture.

• Eggs: Bind the cheesecake together.

• Fresh strawberries: For making the strawberry puree that infuses the cheesecake with fruit flavor.

• Strawberry extract: Enhances the strawberry flavor.

• Unflavored gelatin: Helps set the cheesecake layer and gives it structure.

• Heavy cream: Adds to the creaminess of the cheesecake.

Strawberry Whipped Cream Topping:

The strawberry whipped cream topping is the final layer that adds sweetness and a burst of flavor to finish the dessert.

• Cream cheese: Gives the whipped cream a smooth, creamy texture.

• White chocolate chips: Adds sweetness and a touch of richness.

• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream.

• Strawberry extract: Enhances the strawberry flavor.

• Heavy cream: Whips up to create a light and airy topping.

With these key ingredients, you’ll be able to create a showstopping Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake that combines texture, flavor, and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

Preparing the Red Velvet Cake Layer

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a springform pan to prevent sticking.

2. In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until well combined.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely before assembling the cheesecake.

Making the Strawberry Cheesecake Layer

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy.

2. Add the sour cream, granulated sugar, and strawberry extract, and continue beating until fully incorporated.

3. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4. In a blender, puree the fresh strawberries and then fold them into the cheesecake mixture. This will infuse the cheesecake with natural strawberry flavor.

5. Dissolve unflavored gelatin in a small amount of warm water, then stir it into the cheesecake mixture.

6. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled red velvet cake layer. Smooth the top with a spatula.

7. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Let it cool before adding the mousse layer.

Creating the Strawberry Mousse Layer

1. Whip heavy cream in a large bowl until soft peaks form.

2. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, sweetened condensed milk, and the strawberry puree.

3. Gradually fold the whipped cream into the strawberry mixture, creating a light and airy mousse.

4. Carefully spread the mousse layer over the cooled cheesecake layer.

5. Refrigerate the cheesecake for several hours or overnight to allow it to fully set.

Making the Strawberry Whipped Cream Topping

1. In a bowl, beat cream cheese and white chocolate chips until smooth.

2. Add granulated sugar and strawberry extract, mixing well.

3. Gradually pour in the heavy cream and whip until stiff peaks form.

4. Pipe or spread the whipped cream over the set mousse layer.

5. Garnish with fresh strawberries and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips for Perfecting Your Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

• Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture. This includes the cream cheese, eggs, and buttermilk.

• If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular round cake pan, but be sure to line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

• Ensure your red velvet cake is completely cool before adding the cheesecake layer to prevent melting.

• To prevent cracks in your cheesecake, use a water bath while baking. This method helps regulate the temperature and moisture levels, resulting in a smooth texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Cheesecake Ahead of Time?

Yes! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to fully develop. We recommend preparing the cheesecake a day before you plan to serve it.

Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?

Yes, you can. Just make sure to thaw the frozen strawberries and drain any excess liquid before incorporating them into the cheesecake.

How Can I Prevent My Cheesecake from Cracking?

To prevent cracks, bake the cheesecake in a water bath. This method helps to maintain a steady temperature, ensuring your cheesecake bakes evenly without cracking.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is a showstopping dessert that combines the indulgence of red velvet cake and the creaminess of cheesecake, all topped with a refreshing strawberry mousse and whipped cream. Whether for a holiday celebration or a special treat, this dessert is sure to be a hit. By following this detailed recipe and using high-quality ingredients, you can enjoy a truly decadent dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Enjoy!

Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

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• Author: iyma hernandes
• Total Time: 2 hours
• Yield: 10 servings 1x

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Description

A stunning Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake that blends the richness of red velvet cake with the creamy delight of cheesecake, topped with a luscious strawberry mousse and whipped cream.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp red food coloring
• 16 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberry puree
• 1 tsp strawberry extract
• 1 tbsp unflavored gelatin
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp strawberry extract
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh strawberries for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a springform pan.
2. In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk oil, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing gently.
5. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool.
6. For the cheesecake layer, beat cream cheese and mascarpone until smooth.
7. Add sour cream, sugar, and strawberry extract, mixing well.
8. Gradually add eggs, beating after each addition.
9. Fold in fresh strawberry puree and dissolved gelatin.
10. Pour cheesecake mixture over the cooled red velvet cake and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 60 minutes.
11. For the mousse, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
12. Mix mascarpone, condensed milk, and strawberry puree, then fold in whipped cream.
13. Spread mousse over cooled cheesecake and refrigerate overnight.
14. For the whipped topping, beat cream cheese and melted white chocolate.
15. Add sugar and strawberry extract, then gradually pour in heavy cream, whipping to stiff peaks.
16. Pipe whipped cream over cheesecake and garnish with fresh strawberries.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best texture. Use a water bath while baking the cheesecake layer to prevent cracks.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: red velvet, cheesecake, strawberry, dessert, layered cake