Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup crumbled red velvet cake pieces (optional)
- 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed red velvet cake crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Mix graham cracker crumbs or crushed red velvet cake crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even base. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling: Beat softened cream cheese with sugar until creamy and smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream and vanilla extract just until combined. Fold in crumbled red velvet cake pieces for added texture if desired.
- Add strawberry layer: Gently fold sliced fresh strawberries into the cheesecake filling or spread a thin layer of strawberry jam over the chilled crust before adding the filling for more strawberry intensity.
- Bake and cool: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 50-60 minutes until the center is just set but slightly jiggly. Cool gradually to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, top with additional fresh strawberry slices, whipped cream, or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant presentation.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
- Don’t overmix the batter to prevent air bubbles and cracking.
- Bake with a water bath to avoid cracks and promote even cooking.
- Chill the cheesecake thoroughly for best texture and flavor.
- Slice with a warm knife for clean, neat cuts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free substitutions)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12th of cheesecake)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: red velvet cheesecake, strawberry cheesecake, red velvet dessert, creamy cheesecake, berry dessert, holiday dessert, layered cheesecake