Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the Oreo cookie crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Press into Pan: Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring it’s packed tightly. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Cake Layer

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar.
3. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Bake: Pour the red velvet batter over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
2. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the sour cream until just combined.
3. Layer the Cheesecake: Once the red velvet layer has cooled, carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over it.
4. Bake Again: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour.

Step 4: Prepare the Strawberry Topping

1. Mix Strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to macerate, allowing the juices to develop.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

1. Cool Completely: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
2. Top with Strawberries: Before serving, arrange the macerated strawberries on top of the cheesecake.
3. Serve: Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Slice the cheesecake and serve chilled, optionally with whipped cream or additional strawberries.

Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the cheesecake ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air.
• Prevent Cracks: To prevent cracks in the cheesecake, you can bake it in a water bath. Wrap the outside of the springform pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water.
• Storage: Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This cheesecake can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just be sure to wrap it well.

Conclusion

This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines the best of two favorites into one incredible treat. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to delight anyone who takes a bite.

Ready to impress your guests? Gather your ingredients and create this stunning cheesecake that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every delicious layer of this luscious dessert!