Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Filling
- 16 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream
Red Velvet Cake Layer
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (or homemade equivalent)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Ingredients as per cake mix directions (usually eggs, water, oil)
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs or red velvet cake crumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Fresh Fruit
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Crush graham crackers or red velvet cake crumbs and mix with melted butter. Firmly press this mixture into the bottom of a springform pan. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling to help it set.
- Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar, then vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Finally, gently fold in sour cream or heavy cream to achieve a rich and creamy texture.
- Prepare the red velvet cake batter: Mix the red velvet cake ingredients according to package directions or your homemade recipe until just combined.
- Layer and combine: Alternate spooning the red velvet batter and cheesecake filling into the prepared pan. Swirl gently with a knife or spatula to create a marbled effect.
- Add fresh strawberries: Slice strawberries and fold some into the cheesecake mixture or arrange them on top before baking to infuse fresh flavor throughout.
- Bake and cool: Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly. Cool gradually to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm and meld flavors.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to keep it moist and minimize cracking.
- Fold ingredients gently, especially when combining cake batter and cheesecake filling, to preserve texture.
- Chill the cheesecake thoroughly for best texture and flavor development.
- Always use fresh strawberries for the brightest flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free cake mix and crust option)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 32 g
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: Red Velvet, Strawberry, Cheesecake, Dessert, Cake, Cream Cheese, Berries, Holiday Dessert