Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this indulgent red velvet strawberry cheesecake! Seriously, it’s like a love letter to your taste buds. The first time I made it, my friends couldn’t believe how creamy and rich it was, with that beautiful red velvet base just melting in your mouth. And then, there are those fresh strawberries on top that add a pop of color and flavor—total showstoppers! I love making this cheesecake for special occasions, but honestly, it’s perfect for any day you want to treat yourself. The combination of the soft, velvety texture and the sweet, tangy strawberry topping is unbeatable. You’ll want to keep coming back for more, trust me!
Ingredients for Indulgent Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
- 2 cups red velvet cake crumbs: This is the star of the show! You can use leftover cake or bake a fresh one just for this recipe. The crumbs should be fine enough to form a lovely crust.
- 1/2 cup melted butter: This adds richness to the crust and helps bind the cake crumbs together. Make sure it’s cooled slightly before mixing.
- 2 cups cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for the smoothest texture. This is what gives your cheesecake that luxurious creaminess!
- 1 cup sugar: This adds sweetness to balance the tanginess of the cream cheese. You can adjust it slightly based on your taste.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A dash of vanilla elevates the flavor! It’s a simple but essential addition that rounds out the taste beautifully.
- 3 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and help the cheesecake set perfectly. I always recommend using room temperature eggs for a smoother batter.
- 1 cup sour cream: This adds a delightful tanginess and creaminess. It’s super important for that classic cheesecake flavor!
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced: These are for topping! They add a bright, fresh flavor and a gorgeous pop of color to your cheesecake.
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree: This is blended right into the filling for extra strawberry goodness! You can make your own or buy store-bought puree.
How to Prepare Indulgent Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is super important because starting with a hot oven helps the cheesecake bake evenly. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine your 2 cups of red velvet cake crumbs with 1/2 cup of melted butter. Mix them together until it looks like wet sand. Then, take your springform pan and press this mixture firmly into the bottom. You want it to be nice and compact so it holds together beautifully when you slice into it later. Don’t be shy—use your fingers to get it just right!
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Now for the creamy filling! In a large bowl, beat 2 cups of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar until it’s smooth and fluffy. This step is key for that creamy texture! Next, add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the 3 large eggs, one at a time, making sure everything is well incorporated after each addition. Finally, stir in 1 cup of sour cream and 1/4 cup of strawberry puree until everything is well mixed. You should have a luscious filling that’s just begging to be poured into the crust!
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
Pour that beautiful filling over your crust and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle to it. This is crucial for that perfect texture!
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Once baked, take it out and let it cool in the pan for about an hour. Then, pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better! This chilling time allows all those amazing flavors to meld together and makes for a richer tasting cheesecake. You’ll be so glad you waited!
Tips for Success with Indulgent Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
Alright, let’s make sure your cheesecake is a total showstopper! First off, always use room temperature ingredients, especially the cream cheese and eggs. This helps create that silky smooth filling we all crave. Oh, and don’t rush the chilling process! I can’t stress enough how much better the flavor gets when you let it sit overnight in the fridge. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Also, if you want to avoid cracks, try not to overmix your batter after adding the eggs. And if you’ve got it, a water bath can help keep the temperature even while baking, but it’s not necessary. Just keep an eye on your cheesecake while it bakes, and remember, it’ll firm up as it cools. With these tips, you’re on your way to cheesecake perfection!
Variations of Indulgent Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix things up with this cheesecake! For a tropical twist, try adding mango puree instead of strawberry for a vibrant flavor. You could also swap the strawberries for fresh raspberries or blueberries for a berry medley that looks stunning. Want to take it over the top? Drizzle some chocolate ganache on top before serving, or sprinkle with toasted coconut for added texture. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to let your creativity shine!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Please note that the nutritional information for this indulgent red velvet strawberry cheesecake can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. While I strive to provide accurate information, the exact nutritional data may not be provided for every ingredient. If you’re tracking your nutrition closely, I recommend checking the labels of your particular ingredients for the most precise information. Enjoy your cheesecake without worry, but do keep in mind that indulgence can come with a little extra love for your waistline!
FAQ About Indulgent Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
Can I use a store-bought red velvet cake for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a store-bought red velvet cake works perfectly. Just crumble it into the required amount for the crust, and you’re good to go!
How do I know when my cheesecake is done?
The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle when you take it out of the oven. It will firm up as it cools, so don’t worry if it looks a little soft at first.
Is it necessary to chill the cheesecake overnight?
While it’s not absolutely necessary, chilling it overnight really enhances the flavor and texture. The longer it sits, the better it gets—trust me!
Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?
You can definitely make a gluten-free version! Just use gluten-free red velvet cake crumbs for the crust, and you’ll be all set!
What should I do if my cheesecake cracks?
Cracking can happen if the batter is overmixed or if it bakes too quickly. To avoid this, mix the batter gently and consider using a water bath for even baking. If it does crack, don’t fret! A topping of fresh strawberries or whipped cream will cover it right up.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Beautiful presentation with vibrant red and fresh strawberries
- Perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Impressive dessert for any occasion, sure to wow your guests!
Check out this strawberry cheesecake recipe for more delicious ideas!
Explore more cheesecake variations on our site!
Try this easy peach cobbler recipe for a quick dessert!
Indulgent Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake for Unforgettable Moments
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulgent red velvet strawberry cheesecake with a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups red velvet cake crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 2 cups cream cheese
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/4 cup strawberry puree
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix red velvet cake crumbs and melted butter in a bowl.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and eggs, mixing well.
- Stir in sour cream and strawberry puree.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the crust.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until set.
- Let it cool and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Top with sliced strawberries before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for best results.
- Chill the cheesecake overnight for better flavor.
- Garnish with whipped cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: red velvet cheesecake, strawberry cheesecake, dessert, indulgent cheesecake