Description
This Red Velvet Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake layers the richness of red velvet cake with creamy cheesecake swirled with fresh strawberry puree. It’s a visually stunning, indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion, from celebrations to quiet nights in.
Ingredients
For the Red Velvet Cake Layer:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberry puree
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries (sliced)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Prepare the Red Velvet Cake Layer
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the oil, buttermilk, egg, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar and mix until well combined. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and strawberry puree.
3. Assemble and Bake
- Spoon the cheesecake batter over the cooled red velvet cake layer in the springform pan.
- Place the pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are slightly puffed.
- Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping
- Toss the sliced strawberries with the sugar and lemon juice in a bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
5. Decorate and Serve
- Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and top with the macerated strawberries.
- Slice and serve chilled for a delightful and visually stunning dessert.
Notes
- Make Ahead: This cheesecake is even better when made a day in advance.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh strawberries and high-quality cream cheese enhance the flavor.
- Prevent Cracking: Bake with a water bath or place a pan of water in the oven to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American