Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of red velvet cake and cheesecake, topped with fresh strawberries and a luscious glaze. These scrumptious cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, making them a favorite among dessert lovers. The rich, velvety texture of the cupcakes pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake filling, creating a dessert experience that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress.

Why make this recipe

Making Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes at home is easy and rewarding. This recipe is perfect for beginners, offering a simple way to create gourmet-style cupcakes without the stress. Unlike store-bought options, homemade cupcakes taste fresher and allow you to control the ingredients. You can enjoy the deliciousness with your family or friends, making these a budget-friendly choice for gatherings. Plus, they are quick to whip up, ensuring you can satisfy your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes special

These cupcakes stand out for their unique combination of flavors. The soft, moist red velvet cake has a subtle cocoa flavor that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake filling. The strawberry glaze adds a fruity sweetness that enhances each bite. This recipe combines comfort food with a touch of sophistication, making it great for various occasions. The visual appeal of vibrant red cupcakes topped with bright strawberries makes them as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

Is Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes healthy

While these cupcakes are a treat, they offer a balance of flavors and homemade goodness. You have control over the ingredients, allowing you to avoid preservatives and artificial flavors often found in store-bought options. The use of cream cheese and fresh strawberries can provide some nutritional benefits, even in moderation. Remember, these are indulgent cupcakes, so enjoy them as part of a balanced diet and savor each delicious bite.

How to make Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

Preparing these cupcakes is simple and fun. The process involves making a moist red velvet batter and a creamy cheesecake filling, both of which come together quickly. You’ll mix the ingredients, layer them in cupcake liners, and bake until perfectly soft. With just a little attention to detail, even beginner bakers will be able to create stunningly delicious results in no time.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1 tbsp red food coloring

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• Cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream
• Strawberry glaze or strawberry jam (slightly warmed)
• Fresh strawberries, halved (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until creamy. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Cupcake Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat the oil and sugar until combined. Add the egg, buttermilk, vanilla, vinegar, and red food coloring. Mix until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet and stir until just combined.
4. Assemble the Cupcakes: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of red velvet batter into each cupcake liner. Add 1 heaping teaspoon of cheesecake filling into the center. Top with more red velvet batter until the liners are about ¾ full.
5. Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops spring back lightly and a toothpick inserted off-center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.
6. Decorate: Pipe cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream onto each cupcake. Drizzle with strawberry glaze or warmed jam. Finish with a halved fresh strawberry for the perfect touch!

How to serve Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

These delightful cupcakes can be served for any occasion. They make a great dessert after dinner, a sweet addition to lunch boxes, or a treat for afternoon tea. You can enjoy them as is, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. They are perfect for birthdays, potlucks, and family gatherings. Their eye-catching appearance makes them a standout choice for any celebration.

 

Best occasions to make Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

These cupcakes are ideal for a variety of occasions. They work well for family gatherings, birthday parties, and holiday celebrations. You might also prepare them for casual weeknight dinners or as a lovely snack for the kids after school. Wherever you choose to serve them, they are sure to bring joy and sweetness to the moment.

How to store Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

To keep your cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them for longer, refrigerated cupcakes will last for about a week. Make sure to place the decorated cupcakes in the fridge to prevent the frosting from melting. You can also freeze them for up to three months—just remember to wrap them tightly to maintain their flavor and texture.

Can you make Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes ahead of time

Yes, you can make these cupcakes ahead of time! Prepare the cupcakes and cheesecake filling, then store them separately. Assemble and frost them on the day you plan to serve them for the best flavor and presentation. If you’re in a rush, you can bake them in advance and freeze them. Just thaw and decorate before serving.

Tips to make Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

• Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
• Don’t overmix the cupcake batter; mixing until just combined helps keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.
• Allow the baked cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• If the frosting is too soft, chill it briefly to achieve the right consistency for piping.

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Variation

Feel free to vary this recipe to suit your tastes. You can swap out the red food coloring for another color if desired. For a chocolate twist, add chocolate chips to the red velvet batter. You might also experiment with different fruit glazes such as raspberry or blueberry for a unique flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

FAQs

1. Can I store leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes?

Yes, you can store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for about a week.

2. What if I don’t have buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing ½ cup of milk with ½ tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about five minutes before using.

3. Can I make Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes in advance and freeze them. Just allow them to thaw and frost them on the day you plan to serve.