Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

Directions to follow

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan or round cake pan.
In a large bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Pour the mixture into the greased pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool.
For the cheesecake, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream.
Spread the cheesecake layer over the cooled red velvet cake and bake at 325°F (165°C) for 40-50 minutes or until set. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving.
For the topping, heat the strawberry jam in a saucepan, stir in fresh strawberries, and cook for 3-4 minutes. Allow to cool.
Once the cheesecake has chilled, spread the strawberry sauce over it, followed by additional fresh strawberries and whipped cream for garnish.
Slice and serve chilled for the best experience!

How to serve Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

To elevate your presentation, consider serving each slice on a fancy white plate, topped with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for added flair. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh fruit to balance the richness. This dessert is also fantastic with a cup of coffee or tea, making it versatile for a range of occasions.

Keeping leftovers fresh

After enjoying your delightful cheesecake, storing it properly ensures you can savor those flavors longer. Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. The cheesecake can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Always ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Extra advice

For the best results, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before you begin mixing. This helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture that’s essential for a good cheesecake. Also, be careful not to over-whip the cheesecake mixture after adding the eggs, as this can lead to cracks in the finished product. Cooling the cheesecake slowly in the oven after baking can also help prevent cracks!

Creative twists

Get creative with your Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake by experimenting with flavors! Swap the strawberry jam for raspberry or blueberry for a new fruit twist. You could also layer in chocolate chips within the cheesecake for added richness or try topping with a drizzle of tangy lemon glaze for a refreshing contrast. Different liqueurs could also be added to the cheesecake layer for adults, enhancing the flavor while keeping the dessert elegant.

Common questions

What is the prep time for this recipe?

The prep time for this Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is approximately 30 minutes, while the total cooking and cooling time can take up to 6 hours or more due to the chilling requirement.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Absolutely! You can swap the red velvet cake mix for a chocolate or vanilla cake mix if you prefer. Just be aware this will slightly alter the overall flavor profile.

How long can leftovers last in the fridge?

When stored in an airtight container, leftover cheesecake can last in the refrigerator for about five days. Just be sure to slice it to portion it out as needed.