Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is a luxurious, show-stopping dessert that brings together two classic favorites: red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake. The base is made from buttery red velvet crumbs, the filling is rich and smooth, and fresh strawberries fold in for a natural sweetness that perfectly balances the decadent flavors. Topped with fluffy whipped cream, this cheesecake is as beautiful as it is indulgent.
Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make at home. Using simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dessert that looks like it came from a professional bakery. It’s ideal for special occasions, family gatherings, or any time you want to treat yourself to a sweet, homemade dessert that will wow guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy, beginner-friendly cheesecake recipe
Combines red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake in one dessert
Moist, rich, and velvety texture
Naturally sweetened with fresh strawberries
Perfect for birthdays, holidays, and celebrations
Crowd-pleasing dessert loved by kids and adults alike
About the Ingredients
Red Velvet Cake Crumbs
Used to form a buttery crust that adds flavor and color to the cheesecake. You can use leftover red velvet cake or store-bought crumbs.
Unsalted Butter
Melting the butter and mixing it with cake crumbs helps bind the crust and create a firm base.
Cream Cheese
The star ingredient in the cheesecake filling, providing creaminess and tang.
Sugar
Sweetens the cheesecake filling for a balanced flavor.
Eggs
Provide structure to the cheesecake and help it set without cracking.
Fresh Strawberries
Add natural sweetness and a fresh, fruity flavor to the creamy filling.
Vanilla Extract
Enhances the flavor of both the filling and whipped cream topping.
Heavy Cream
Whipped to stiff peaks, it adds a light, fluffy topping that balances the richness of the cheesecake.
Sugar (for topping)
Sweetens the whipped cream for a perfectly balanced dessert.
Tips & Tricks
Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the filling
Press the crust firmly into the pan for stability
Don’t overbake; cheesecake should slightly jiggle in the center when done
Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set properly
Fold strawberries gently to prevent streaking the cheesecake red
These easy kitchen hacks ensure a smooth, creamy, and visually stunning cheesecake every time.
Pro Tips
Line the springform pan with parchment paper for easy removal
Use a water bath to prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface
Slice strawberries thinly for more even distribution
Serve with extra whipped cream or fresh strawberries for a professional presentation
Refrigerate slices for at least 15 minutes before serving for cleaner cuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a bowl, combine red velvet cake crumbs with melted butter until fully incorporated.
Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Gently fold in chopped fresh strawberries and vanilla extract.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the center is almost set but slightly jiggly.
Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with ¼ cup sugar until stiff peaks form.
Spread whipped cream evenly over the cooled cheesecake.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.
Release cheesecake from the springform pan, slice, and serve with fresh strawberries or extra whipped cream.
These easy step-by-step instructions ensure a perfect cheesecake every time.
Variations
Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin for individual servings
Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake: Fold in chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top
Low-Sugar Version: Reduce sugar in the filling and whipped cream
Berry Mix: Substitute or combine strawberries with blueberries or raspberries
Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese and coconut cream for topping
These customizable dessert variations make the recipe flexible for different tastes and occasions.
How to Store Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
Store cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Avoid leaving it at room temperature due to the cream cheese and whipped cream topping.
For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. This cheesecake is perfect as a make-ahead dessert for holidays and special celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but drain them well and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
Do I need a water bath for baking?
It’s optional but recommended to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
Can I make it in a different pan?
Yes, a 9×9 inch pan works, but the baking time may need slight adjustment.
Can I use store-bought red velvet crumbs?
Absolutely — it saves time and works just as well for the crust.
Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, mix the red velvet cake crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the chopped strawberries and vanilla extract.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the pan.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is almost set.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely.
- In a bowl, whip the heavy cream with ¼ cup sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped cream over the cooled cheesecake.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Release from pan, slice, and serve with fresh strawberries or extra whipped cream if desired.
