Get ready to indulge in a dessert that truly dazzles! This Decadent Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake combines the rich, velvety goodness of red velvet cake with a creamy cheesecake filling and fresh strawberry puree. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe is easy to follow. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on making this stunning delight!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Needed
– Red Velvet Cake Crust
– 1 ½ cups crushed red velvet cake (store-bought or homemade)
– ½ cup melted butter
– Cheesecake Filling
– 4 cups cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
– Toppings and Garnishes
– 1 cup whipped cream, for topping
– Fresh strawberries, for garnish
– Optional: Cocoa powder or red sprinkles for decoration
Measuring & Preparation Tips
– How to measure ingredients accurately
Use dry measuring cups for solid ingredients. Fill the cup and level it off with a straight edge. For liquids, use a clear measuring cup with markings. Pour to the desired line and check at eye level.
– Preparing fresh strawberries for puree
Start by washing the strawberries under cool water. Remove the green tops and slice them in half. Blend the strawberries in a food processor until smooth. If you want it sweeter, add a bit of sugar while blending.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Red Velvet Crust
To start, we need to make the red velvet crust. In a mixing bowl, combine:
– 1 ½ cups crushed red velvet cake
– ½ cup melted butter
Mix these two ingredients until they blend well. The mixture should be moist and crumbly. Next, we must press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use your fingers or the back of a measuring cup to create an even layer. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Once baked, take it out and let it cool.
Making the Cheesecake Filling
Now, let’s make the cheesecake filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat together:
– 4 cups cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Mix these until smooth and creamy. Then, add in three large eggs one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each egg. Next, pour in 1 cup of sour cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is well combined. Finally, gently fold in 1 cup of fresh strawberry puree, ensuring it’s evenly mixed into the batter.
Baking and Cooling Process
It’s time to bake! Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled red velvet crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top. Bake in your preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center can still jiggle a bit. After baking, turn off the oven and crack the door. Let the cheesecake cool slowly for about an hour. This step helps prevent cracks. Then, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To make a great cheesecake, use room temperature ingredients. This means letting your cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream sit out for about 30 minutes. Room temperature ingredients mix better. They create a smooth batter without lumps.
To avoid cracks, bake your cheesecake slowly. After baking, turn off the oven but leave the door slightly open. This helps the cheesecake cool down gently. Rapid cooling can lead to cracks. Also, try not to overmix the batter. Overmixing adds air, which can cause cracks during baking.
Decor Serving Suggestions
Garnishing your cheesecake is fun! Use fresh strawberries on top for a bright pop of color. Slice them and arrange them in a beautiful way. You can also create a strawberry sauce for drizzling over each slice.
For extra flair, consider adding whipped cream. You can make little swirls on top. Another idea is to dust cocoa powder or sprinkle red sprinkles all over. These small touches can make your cheesecake look amazing and festive.
