Creamy, colorful, and packed with fresh strawberry flavor, this Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple. Imagine layers of tender red velvet cake hugging a silky cheesecake filling dotted with juicy, sweet strawberries — it’s the kind of dessert that turns any ordinary day into a celebration. Fun fact: combining classic red velvet with a light cheesecake twist is a trendy way to get two desserts in one slice. If you love approachable desserts, this recipe is quicker than you’d expect and very family-friendly. For another rich red velvet twist, check out the popular Knock-You-Naked Red Velvet Cheesecake on our site for more inspiration. Ready to bake? Let’s get started!

What is Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake?

What’s in a name? Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake sounds like a dessert with an identity crisis — but in a delicious way. Is it cake? Is it cheesecake? Is it a berry parfait in disguise? The answer: yes. The red velvet layers give a tender, cocoa-kissed crumb while the cheesecake layer adds creamy tang; fresh strawberries bring bright, juicy notes. Who wouldn’t be curious? After all, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Maybe that’s why this one’s so irresistible. Give it a try and see which part wins you over first.

Why You’ll Love This:

• Creamy meets cakey: The main highlight is the contrast between the moist red velvet cake and the smooth, whipped cheesecake filling layered with fresh strawberries. Every bite has texture and flavor.
• Budget-friendly celebration: Making this at home saves money compared to bakery versions, and you control the quality of ingredients — from the cream cheese to the freshest strawberries.
• Flavorful toppings: A handful of macerated strawberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar takes it over the top. The strawberries add natural sweetness and a juicy pop that balances the richness.

If you enjoy layered desserts with both cake and cheesecake, this recipe is a must-try. It’s easier than it looks and sure to impress. Now tie on your apron and make it for your next family gathering.

How to Make:

Quick Overview

This recipe is surprisingly straightforward: prepare a quick red velvet cake batter, bake the layers, whip a light cheesecake filling, then assemble with fresh strawberries. The textures — tender cake, velvety cream, and juicy fruit — make this satisfying and memorable. Prep time is about 20 minutes, bake time 25 to 30 minutes, and chilling time 2 to 3 hours for best results.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line the bottoms with parchment circles for easier removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda until well combined.
3. In a large bowl, cream 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Alternate adding the dry flour mixture and 1 cup buttermilk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined — do not overmix.
5. Stir in 1 tablespoon red food coloring and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the batter is evenly colored.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
7. For the cheesecake layer, place 8 ounces cream cheese (softened) in a bowl and beat until smooth. Add 1/2 cup powdered sugar and beat until combined and silky.
8. In a separate chilled bowl, whip 1 cup heavy cream to soft peaks using clean beaters. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until light and airy.
9. To assemble, place one red velvet cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the cheesecake filling over the cake, arrange half of the sliced strawberries evenly, then top with the second cake layer. Spread the remaining cheesecake filling on top and garnish with the rest of the sliced strawberries.
10. Refrigerate the assembled cake for a few hours (2 to 3 hours recommended) to set before slicing and serving. Chill longer for cleaner slices.

What to Serve With:

• A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for extra indulgence.
• Freshly brewed coffee or espresso to balance sweetness.
• Sparkling wine or rosé for a celebratory pairing.
• A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette if you’re serving as part of a larger meal — the acidity helps cut the richness.
• A small bowl of macerated strawberries (strawberries tossed with a little sugar and lemon) for spooning over slices.

Top Tips for Perfecting:

• Use room-temperature ingredients: Let eggs, butter, and cream cheese come to room temp for smoother batter and filling.
• Don’t overmix the cake batter: Overmixing can make the cake tough. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
• Stabilize whipped cream: If you want a firmer cheesecake layer that holds up longer at room temperature, fold in a teaspoon of powdered gelatin dissolved in a tablespoon of warm water.
• Macerate the strawberries: Toss sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar and let sit 10–15 minutes to draw out juices and intensify sweetness.
• Test for doneness: Check the cake with a toothpick in the center — moist crumbs are okay, but it shouldn’t be wet.
• Make ahead: You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and refrigerate wrapped; assemble the day you’ll serve for the freshest texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep slices in an airtight container to prevent drying and odor absorption.
• Freezing: You can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Cheesecake is best served chilled. If you prefer a slightly softened texture, let slices sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Do not microwave; it will change the texture.
• Transport tip: Keep the cake chilled in a cooler or insulated bag for transport to parties.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and drain frozen strawberries thoroughly and pat dry to avoid adding excess moisture to the cake. Fresh is preferred for texture.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend and check for added xanthan gum in your blend for best structure.

How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from becoming grainy?
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened and beat well before adding powdered sugar. Use room-temperature ingredients and fold in whipped cream gently.

Can I convert this to a single-layer loaf or pan?
Yes. Bake the batter in a 9×13 pan, but reduce bake time and check for doneness earlier — start checking at 20 minutes.

Is it safe to use store-bought whipped topping instead of heavy cream?
You can, but whipped cream made from heavy cream gives better texture and flavor. If using store-bought whipped topping, choose a high-quality product and fold gently into the cream cheese.

Conclusion

This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is a delightful combination of moist red velvet cake, airy cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberries — easy enough for weekday celebrations and special enough for gatherings. It’s forgiving, family-friendly, and a great make-ahead dessert that saves money compared to bakery versions. If you want to see a visual guide while you bake, check out this helpful video demonstration: Strawberry Red Velvet Cheesecake (video) – Tatyanas Everyday Food. Give it a try, share slices with people you love, and enjoy every colorful, creamy bite.