If you have a weakness for luscious desserts that combine vibrant colors, rich flavors, and a fresh fruity twist, then you are going to adore this Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe. This show-stopping treat layers the tender, classic red velvet cake with a dreamy cheesecake layer and finishes with juicy strawberries bathing in a sweet, tangy syrup. It’s the perfect balance between creamy, cakey, and fresh, making it an irresistible indulgence for any occasion. Trust me when I say, once you try this recipe, it’ll become one of your go-to desserts whenever you want to impress or simply celebrate life’s sweetest moments.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating the perfect Red Velvet Strawberry Delight. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to build the rich texture, striking color, and fresh sweetness that define this dessert.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the red velvet cake, providing structure without heaviness.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to both the cake and the strawberry topping for perfect balance.
- Cocoa powder: A subtle hint for depth and that signature red velvet flavor.
- Baking soda: Helps the cake rise, creating a light and fluffy texture.
- Salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the cocoa’s slight bitterness.
- Buttermilk: Adds a tender crumb and slight tang that complements the sweetness.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft, perfect for layering.
- Egg: Binds the ingredients, lending richness and stability.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warm aromatic notes to the cake and cheesecake layers.
- White vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise and enhances the red color.
- Red food coloring: Gives the cake its trademark vibrant red hue.
- Cream cheese: The star ingredient of the cheesecake topping, creamy and slightly tangy.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake smoothly without graininess.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped to add lightness and fluff to the cheesecake layer.
- Fresh strawberries: Provides juicy freshness and a natural sweet-tart contrast.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the strawberry topping with a zesty kick.
How to Make Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe
Step 1: Make the Red Velvet Cake Layer
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your pan by greasing a 9-inch springform or round cake pan. In one bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another, combine buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla, vinegar, and red food coloring, mixing until smooth.
Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet, careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender. Pour the batter into your pan and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely; this patience ensures the cheesecake layer stays intact and smooth on top.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
Once the red velvet cake is completely cool, it’s time for the luscious cheesecake layer. Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until perfectly smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form—this adds an airy lightness you’ll love. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to keep that softness and volume.
Spread this creamy layer evenly over the cooled red velvet cake, creating a beautiful, velvety contrast in both texture and color.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Topping
Prepare a fresh strawberry topping by mixing sliced strawberries with sugar and a splash of lemon juice. Allow them to sit for 10 to 15 minutes so the berries release their natural juices, making the topping delightfully syrupy. When ready, spoon this vibrant mixture over the cheesecake layer and smooth it out carefully for a stunning finish.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Refrigerate your masterpiece for at least two hours to set properly. Just before serving, add some fresh strawberries and a generous dollop of whipped cream on top for that added wow factor. Now you’re ready to dig into an unforgettable Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe experience!
How to Serve Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Red Velvet Strawberry Delight with bright, fresh strawberries placed artfully on top and a swirl of freshly whipped cream. Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of green and a hint of refreshing aroma, making each slice look and taste even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This dessert shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a light green salad or a sparkling glass of champagne for an elegant touch. Coffee or hot tea also complement the richness of the cake and cheesecake layers perfectly, rounding out your dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, consider serving the Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe in individual glass jars or trifles to show off the beautiful layers. You can also sprinkle some crushed pistachios or white chocolate shavings on top to add texture and an extra hint of luxury.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover dessert can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the cheesecake’s creamy texture and the freshness of the strawberries, so you enjoy every bite even the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save the Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe for longer, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container. It can stay frozen for up to 1 month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so avoid microwaving. Instead, let frozen portions thaw completely in the refrigerator before serving to keep the delicate layers fresh and intact.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
While fresh strawberries are ideal for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen ones if thawed and drained well. Just be aware the topping might be a bit more watery, so you might want to reduce added sugar slightly.
Is there a substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix one cup of milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using — it will mimic the acidity and texture buttermilk provides perfectly.
Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the red velvet cake a day ahead, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate. Just bring it to room temperature before adding the cheesecake and strawberry layers for the best result.
What kind of cream cheese works best?
Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest and creamiest cheesecake layer. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature to blend smoothly without lumps.
Can I use a different fruit instead of strawberries?
Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries can work wonderfully to give you a different but equally delicious variation of the Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow friends, family, or just treat yourself to something sincerely scrumptious, this Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe is your ticket to dessert paradise. The harmony of tender red velvet cake, creamy cheesecake, and fresh strawberries creates a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this delightful recipe your own—it’s sure to become a beloved favorite!
Print
Red Velvet Strawberry Delight Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Red Velvet Strawberry Delight is a luscious layered dessert combining a moist red velvet cake base with a creamy no-bake cheesecake layer, topped with fresh and sweetened strawberries. Perfect for gatherings and celebrations, this recipe balances rich flavors and textures for a refreshing yet indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Red Velvet Cake Layer
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Strawberry Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Garnish
- Fresh strawberries
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Make the Red Velvet Cake Layer: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan or round cake pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined. In a separate large bowl, whisk the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring until smooth and uniform in color. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined to prevent overmixing. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before proceeding.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, removing any lumps. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, ensuring a light and airy texture without deflating the cream. Spread this cheesecake layer evenly over the cooled red velvet cake base.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Stir gently to coat the strawberries evenly. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their natural juices, creating a fresh syrup. Spoon this strawberry mixture evenly over the cheesecake layer, distributing both berries and syrup.
- Garnish and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecake layer to set and the flavors to meld. Just before serving, garnish with additional fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream for an attractive presentation and extra indulgence.
Notes
- Ensure ingredients like buttermilk, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature for best mixing results.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain cake tenderness.
- Use fresh strawberries in season for optimal flavor and texture.
- The dessert can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
- Use a springform pan for easier removal of the cake layers.
