Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe

The Ultimate Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe

Decadent red velvet cupcakes meet creamy strawberry cheesecake in a dessert that redefines pure indulgence.

This irresistible fusion blends velvety cake layers with luscious strawberry cheesecake filling that melts on your tongue.

Rich crimson crumbs envelop a smooth, tangy center that promises pure bliss in every bite.

Delicate swirls of cream cheese frosting crown these elegant treats with a touch of romance.

Soft strawberry notes dance through each cupcake, creating a symphony of flavors that elevate your baking game.

The recipe strikes a perfect balance between classic red velvet charm and modern cheesecake creativity.

Prepare to dazzle your taste buds and impress even the most discerning dessert enthusiasts with this show-stopping cupcake creation.

Cupcake Tips for a Perfect Cheesecake Center

  • Choose fresh, vibrant red strawberries that are firm and sweet for the best flavor and texture in your cupcakes.
  • Toss chopped strawberries in a little flour before adding to the batter to prevent them from sinking and bleeding color.
  • Ensure cream cheese, butter, and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better incorporation.
  • Gently fold ingredients until just combined to keep cupcakes tender and prevent a tough texture.
  • Use a piping bag or spoon to create a clean cheesecake filling layer between red velvet batter for a beautiful visual effect.

Red Velvet Cupcake Variations to Explore

  • Gluten-Free Delight: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free baking powder for a celiac-friendly version.
  • Vegan Strawberry Dream: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use vegan cream cheese, plant-based butter, and dairy-free milk to create a completely plant-based cupcake.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, and use sugar-free cream cheese for a diabetic-friendly alternative.
  • Chocolate Berry Blast: Replace red food coloring with dark cocoa powder and add chocolate chips to the batter for an intense chocolate strawberry experience.

Serving Suggestions for Cheesecake Cupcakes

  • Romantic Date Night Delight: Serve these decadent cupcakes as a sweet finale to an intimate dinner, creating a memorable dessert experience for you and your partner.
  • Berry Brunch Showstopper: Present these cupcakes on a beautiful platter during a weekend brunch, adding a pop of color and elegance to your gathering.
  • Afternoon Tea Treat: Pair these strawberry red velvet cupcakes with a light tea, offering guests a luxurious and Instagram-worthy dessert that's both beautiful and delicious.
  • Summer Party Centerpiece: Arrange the cupcakes on a tiered stand at your next summer celebration, letting the vibrant red and fresh strawberries become a conversation-starting dessert.

Storage Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake Cupcakes

  • Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent flavor transfer.
  • Place cupcakes in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Let cupcakes sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften. Warm briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore texture and enhance flavors.
  • If frosting becomes stiff, let cupcakes sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Gently pat frosting with a clean knife to smooth and refresh its appearance.

FAQs

  • Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?

Fresh strawberries work best for this recipe. Frozen strawberries can release too much moisture and affect the cupcake texture, potentially making them soggy.

  • How do I prevent my red velvet cupcakes from being dry?

Make sure not to overmix the batter and check your oven temperature. Remove cupcakes exactly when a toothpick comes out clean. Using buttermilk helps keep the cupcakes moist and tender.

  • Why is vinegar used in red velvet cupcakes?

Vinegar helps activate the baking soda and creates a chemical reaction that makes the cupcakes lighter and fluffier. It also enhances the reddish color and tender crumb of the cupcakes.

Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Dessert That’s Always a Hit

  • Wow guests with a show-stopping cupcake that combines two beloved treats into one incredible bite.
  • Learn to create a professional-looking dessert that seems complex but is actually straightforward to prepare.
  • Ideal for Valentine's Day, bridal showers, birthdays, or any event requiring a spectacular sweet treat.
  • Adaptable recipe allows for personal touches like adjusting strawberry quantity or decoration style to suit individual preferences.

What Goes Into Strawberry Red Velvet Cupcakes

Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: A key component that provides structure to the red velvet cupcakes.
  • Cocoa Powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor and deep red color to the cupcake base.
  • Baking Soda: Helps the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cupcakes.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Buttermilk: Creates a tender and moist texture in the red velvet cupcakes.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth cake texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, sweet flavor to both cupcakes and frosting.
  • Red Food Coloring: Gives the signature vibrant red color to the cupcakes.
  • White Vinegar: Helps activate the baking soda and creates a tender crumb.
Cheesecake and Frosting Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese, Sugar: Create a smooth and tangy cheesecake filling and frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting.
Fruit Ingredients:
  • Strawberries: Fresh fruit that adds natural sweetness and color to the cupcakes.

Baking Gear for Cheesecake Cupcakes

  • Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
  • Electric Mixer: Perfect for creaming butter, beating cream cheese, and creating smooth batters and frostings.
  • Cupcake Pan: Necessary for baking uniform cupcakes.
  • Cupcake Liners: Helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier.
  • Sifter: Helps remove lumps from dry ingredients and ensures even mixing.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Crucial for accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Spatula: Useful for folding ingredients and scraping bowls.
  • Piping Bag and Tip: Helps create beautiful frosting decorations.
  • Toothpick: Checks cupcake doneness by testing the center.
  • Sharp Knife: For slicing strawberries as garnish.

Steps to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank up your oven to a toasty 350F (175C).

Grab your cupcake pan and tuck in some cute paper liners to create cozy homes for your delectable treats.

Step 2: Mix Red Velvet Magic

Ingredients for dry mix:
  • Flour
  • Baking soda
  • Cocoa powder
  • Salt
Ingredients for wet mix:
  • Butter
  • Sugar
  • Eggs
  • Buttermilk
  • Vanilla extract
  • Red food coloring
  • Vinegar
  • Chopped strawberries

Sift all dry ingredients in one bowl.

In another bowl, whip butter and sugar until they transform into a fluffy cloud.

Gently add eggs one by one, creating a smooth batter.

Pour in buttermilk, vanilla, food coloring, and vinegar.

Fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients with a light touch.

Sprinkle chopped strawberries throughout the batter.

Step 3: Whip Up Cheesecake Center

Blend cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth.

Crack in an egg and splash of vanilla extract.

Mix until everything harmonizes perfectly.

Step 4: Layer Your Cupcake Canvas

Pour red velvet batter halfway into each liner.

Drop a generous spoonful of cheesecake filling right in the center.

Cover with more red velvet batter, filling each cup about 3/4 full.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your cupcake pan into the oven.

Bake for 20-22 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Let cupcakes cool completely.

Step 6: Whisk Together Dreamy Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter until they become a creamy dream.

Gradually introduce powdered sugar and vanilla extract.

Whip until the frosting reaches cloud-like consistency.

Step 7: Create Cupcake Masterpieces

Pipe luscious frosting onto cooled cupcakes.

Crown each cupcake with delicate strawberry slices for a stunning finish.

Print
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Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe


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4.5 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 52 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Red velvet cupcakes infused with strawberry cheesecake offer a luxurious dessert experience. Creamy strawberry cheesecake filling nestles inside rich red velvet cake, creating an irresistible treat you cannot resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
  • 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar

Flavor and Color Enhancers:

  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup chopped strawberries

Stabilizers and Seasonings:

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350F (175C) and arranging cupcake liners in the pan.
  2. Create the red velvet batter by combining dry ingredients through sifting. In a separate mixing bowl, thoroughly cream butter and sugar until airy. Incorporate eggs individually, ensuring complete blending after each addition. Introduce buttermilk, vanilla, food coloring, and vinegar to the mixture. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet components until just integrated. Delicately mix in fresh strawberry pieces.
  3. Craft the cheesecake filling by whipping cream cheese and sugar until silky. Incorporate egg and vanilla, blending until uniform and smooth.
  4. Construct the cupcake layers by distributing red velvet batter to half-fill each liner. Carefully deposit a dollop of cheesecake mixture atop the initial batter layer. Complete each cupcake by covering with additional red velvet batter, filling approximately three-quarters full.
  5. Bake for 20-22 minutes, monitoring until a clean toothpick test confirms doneness. Allow cupcakes to cool completely at room temperature.
  6. Whip cream cheese and butter until perfectly smooth. Gradually introduce powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until achieving a luxurious, creamy consistency.
  7. Embellish cooled cupcakes by piping frosting with artistic swirls. Garnish each cupcake with delicate fresh strawberry slices for an elegant finishing touch.

Notes

  • Choose ripe, sweet strawberries for the most intense fruity flavor in your cupcakes, ensuring they’re finely chopped to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent tough, dense cupcakes; stop stirring as soon as dry ingredients are just incorporated for a tender crumb.
  • Let ingredients like eggs, cream cheese, and butter reach room temperature before mixing to ensure smoother, more consistent textures and better incorporation.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend and add 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum to improve texture.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 22 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 335
  • Sugar: 32 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Marcus Reed

Marcus Reed

Founder & Food Content Creator

Expertise

Single-recipe development, Seasonal and local ingredient utilization, Food photography and styling, Culinary writing and content creation​

Education

Culinary Arts Certificate, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, WV
Focus: Fundamentals of culinary techniques, emphasizing hands-on experience in small-scale kitchen settings.


Marcus’s story begins in Asheville, where good food and family kitchens shaped his earliest memories. After hands-on culinary training and a lot of trial (and a little error), he realized that real cooking isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
At Pan and Oven, Marcus crafts recipes that are easy to follow, packed with flavor, and built for real kitchens.

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