Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe

If you are ready to dive into a dreamy dessert, this Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe is exactly the treat to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress anyone lucky enough to try them. These cupcakes combine the classic deep, velvety texture of red velvet with creamy cheesecake filling and a burst of fresh strawberry goodness on top. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of rich, tangy, and fruity flavors that dance beautifully on your palate. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this recipe brings joy and deliciousness all in one delightful package.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, straightforward ingredients are the secret to making these cupcakes taste amazing. Each one plays a special role in creating the perfect texture, color, and flavor you want in a Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe.

• 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of your cupcakes providing structure and tenderness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness that balances the tangy cheesecake and strawberries.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cupcakes rise light and fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder: Contributes to that iconic red velvet depth.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender.
• 1/2 cup buttermilk: Adds a subtle tang and helps with the soft crumb.
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring: The vibrant color that makes red velvet so irresistible.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts the flavor complexity.
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar: Reacts with the baking soda to give a light texture and enhances the tanginess.
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened: The starring ingredient for the luscious cheesecake filling.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer nicely without overpowering.
• 1 large egg: Helps set the cheesecake batter smoothly.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds subtle warmth to the cheesecake.
• 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional): For an extra tang that elevates the cheesecake texture.
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, chopped: Provides fresh fruit flavor and a pop of color.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Sweetens the strawberries as they macerate.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional): Brightens the strawberry topping with a hint of citrus.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep

Starting off strong means preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. This simple preparation sets the stage for perfect cupcakes that won’t stick and will bake evenly.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Mixing these dry components thoroughly ensures even distribution so every cupcake gets that iconic flavor and texture without clumps or uneven rises.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, beat the egg and vegetable oil together until blended. Add the buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla, and white vinegar, mixing gently until the batter is smooth and luxuriously red. This mixture is the heart of your red velvet cupcakes.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes, so a gentle hand here will ensure a tender crumb and moist interior, hallmarks of great red velvet.

Step 5: Fill the Cupcake Liners

Carefully fill each cupcake liner about halfway to two-thirds full with the red velvet batter. This allows space for the cheesecake topping to sit beautifully on top without overflowing during baking.

Step 6: Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture

Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar in a medium bowl until smooth. Then add the egg, vanilla, and optional sour cream, continuing to beat until the mixture is creamy and completely combined. This cheesecake layer adds a rich and tangy contrast to the red velvet base.

Step 7: Add the Cheesecake Layer

Gently spoon a heaping tablespoon of the cheesecake batter on top of each cupcake’s red velvet batter. Be careful not to swirl it in; you want those beautiful, distinct layers that make these cupcakes so special.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cupcakes for 18 to 20 minutes. A toothpick inserted into a cupcake’s center should come out clean or with just a little bit of cheesecake, never wet batter. Give the cupcakes five minutes to cool in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Macerate the Strawberries

While the cupcakes cool, mix chopped strawberries with sugar and optional lemon juice in a bowl. Let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the strawberries to release their sweet juices, creating a luscious topping that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake and rich red velvet below.

Step 10: Finish with Strawberry Topping

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, spoon the macerated strawberries generously on top of each cheesecake layer. For an extra special touch, pipe whipped cream or frosting around the strawberries to add a gorgeous presentation and a bit of extra sweetness.

How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

The obvious star garnish is fresh strawberries, but you can also sprinkle crushed graham crackers or a light dusting of cocoa powder. Fresh mint leaves add a lovely color contrast and fresh aroma that will wow your guests.

Side Dishes

Pair your cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an indulgent experience. A simple cup of black coffee or herbal tea also complements the rich flavors and balances sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these cupcakes in delicate mini dessert stands or on a rustic wooden board with fresh berries scattered around. Wrapping the cupcake liners with colorful ribbons or placing them in decorative boxes makes them perfect party favors or gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy these luscious treats over a few days without losing any flavor or texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these cupcakes without the strawberry topping by wrapping each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before adding fresh strawberries and serving.

Reheating

To enjoy a warm cupcake, allow refrigerated cupcakes to come to room temperature or microwave individually for about 10 seconds. Avoid reheating cupcakes with fresh strawberries on top to preserve their juicy texture and freshness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?

While fresh strawberries give the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh aren’t available. Just thaw and drain excess liquid before macerating with sugar to avoid sogginess.

Is it necessary to use red food coloring?

The red food coloring is traditional to red velvet and provides that iconic vibrant color. You can reduce or skip it if you prefer, but the cupcakes will have a less striking appearance.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

With a few substitutions like using dairy-free cream cheese and milk alternatives, you can adapt this recipe. Keep in mind texture and flavor might change but it will still be delicious.

How can I tell when the cupcakes are done?

Use a toothpick inserted near the center. It should come out clean or with just a bit of moist cheesecake, but no raw batter. The tops should spring back lightly when touched.

Why is vinegar included in the recipe?

Vinegar reacts with baking soda to provide lift and a tender crumb, plus it brightens the flavors in red velvet cupcakes, complementing the buttermilk’s tang nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe is a total showstopper that combines all your favorite dessert elements in one irresistible bite. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just because, these cupcakes will bring smiles and delight with every forkful. So grab your ingredients and get ready to fall in love with the perfect balance of red velvet, creamy cheesecake, and fresh strawberry love!

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