Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

As the sun sets on a long day, there’s nothing quite like the sight of freshly baked Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes cooling on my kitchen counter. The vibrant red hue, so inviting against the creamy swirls of frosting, captivates my senses. I can almost taste the delightful contrast of flavors—the moist red velvet cake giving way to a luscious cheesecake filling, topped off with a glossy strawberry glaze that’s truly irresistible.

These little gems are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself. Best of all, they’re surprisingly easy to make—from the first whisk of flour to the final garnish of fresh strawberries, you’ll find joy in every step. With options to customize the frosting or switch up the fruit, this recipe is as versatile as it is indulgent. Join me in creating a dessert that’s not just a feast for the eyes, but a celebration for your taste buds!

Why are Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes so delightful?

Indulgent flavors: The harmonious blend of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake creates a mouthwatering experience that wins hearts. Visual appeal: Their stunning red hue, complemented by swirls of frosting and fresh strawberries, makes these cupcakes the star of any dessert table. Easy to customize: From swapping the strawberry glaze to experimenting with different frostings, the options are endless. Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or simple family gathering, these cupcakes are sure to impress everyone. You can also check out my tips on variations to elevate this delightful treat further!

Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcake Ingredients

For the Cupcakes
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cupcake. Substitution: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free option.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor that complements the red velvet.
Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps the cupcakes rise perfectly.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cupcakes.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cupcake and helps with texture.
Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture, crucial for a fluffy cupcake.
Buttermilk – Adds tang and moisture; helps activate baking soda. Substitution: Mix ½ cup milk with 1½ teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice to create a homemade buttermilk.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and contributes delightful flavor.
White Vinegar – Reacts with buttermilk to create a tender crumb in the cupcakes.
Red Food Coloring – Gives the classic red velvet color that's visually striking.
For the Cheesecake Filling
Cream Cheese – Provides creamy texture and tanginess to the filling.
Granulated Sugar (for Filling) – Sweetens the cheesecake, balancing its tartness.
Egg (for Filling) – Sets the cheesecake as it bakes, ensuring a smooth filling.
Vanilla Extract (for Filling) – Adds extra flavor to the cheesecake filling.
For the Frosting
Cream Cheese Frosting or Vanilla Buttercream – Offers a luscious topping for the cupcakes that complements the flavors wonderfully.
Strawberry Glaze or Jam – Adds sweetness and a fruity burst that ties the whole dessert together.
For Garnish
Fresh Strawberries – For garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color when serving.

These Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes will surely delight your taste buds and bring smiles all around!

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners for easy serving and cleanup.
Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Then, mix in the egg and vanilla extract. Set this delicious filling aside for later.
Make Cupcake Batter: In one bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil and sugar, then add the egg, buttermilk, vanilla, white vinegar, and red food coloring. Lastly, mix the wet and dry ingredients together gently until just combined.
Assemble Cupcakes: Spoon the red velvet batter into the lined muffin cups, filling them about ¾ full. Next, add a generous dollop of the cheesecake filling on top of the batter.
Bake: Place the cupcakes in the preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes. They’re done when the tops spring back slightly and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool on a wire rack before frosting!
Decorate: Once completely cooled, frost the cupcakes with cream cheese frosting, drizzle with strawberry glaze, and finish off with halved fresh strawberries for a beautiful presentation.

Optional: For a delightful crunch, consider sprinkling crushed graham crackers on top before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Variations

Let your creativity shine by personalizing these delightful cupcakes with fun and delicious twists.

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour for a totally gluten-free delight. It’s an easy swap that doesn’t compromise flavor!
Fruit Swap: Replace the strawberry glaze with raspberry or blueberry jam for a different fruity flair that still delivers on sweetness.
Dairy-Free: Opt for plant-based cream cheese and non-dairy milk to make a satisfying dairy-free version of these indulgent treats. Your guests won’t miss the dairy!
Different Frosting: Try whipped mascarpone frosting instead of cream cheese for a lighter, airy topping that beautifully complements the rich cupcake base.
Flavor Infusion: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter for a subtle nutty flavor that elevates the entire dessert experience.
Extra Texture: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts or crushed graham crackers on top of the frosting for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft cupcake.
Zesty Twist: Incorporate grated lemon or orange zest into the frosting to brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing citrus zing.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the batter for an extra layer of indulgence—the combination of chocolate and strawberry is truly divine!

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

Room Temperature: These cupcakes can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 day, but it's best to keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze without toppings for up to 2 months. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. For a warm treat, microwave for 10-15 seconds, then top with frosting and fresh strawberries for the best results.

Expert Tips for Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use cream cheese and eggs at room temperature. This ensures smooth blending and prevents lumps in your cheesecake filling.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes instead of the light, fluffy texture you want.
Cool Before Frosting: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before decorating. This prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and maintains that beautiful presentation.
Fresh Garnish: Add garnishes, like fresh strawberries, just before serving. This keeps the strawberries looking vibrant and fresh, elevating the visual appeal of your Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes.
Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, your cupcakes are ready to come out of the oven!

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cupcake batter and cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance. Just make sure to refrigerate both in airtight containers to maintain their freshness and avoid any moisture loss. When you're ready to bake, simply fill the cupcake liners with the batter, add the cheesecake filling, and bake as directed. After they cool completely, frost your cupcakes and drizzle with strawberry glaze just before serving to keep everything looking and tasting delicious. With this make-ahead strategy, you can enjoy charmingly indulgent desserts without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes?

These little indulgences are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments elevates the entire experience.

Sparkling Rosé: The effervescence and fruity notes of a sparkling rosé complement the rich cheesecake and strawberry flavors beautifully.
Strawberry Lemonade: A refreshing glass of strawberry lemonade brings a zesty brightness that enhances the sweet, creamy cupcakes.
Mixed Berry Platter: A vibrant assortment of fresh berries not only adds a pop of color but also provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the rich cheesecakey flavor, creating a heavenly dessert duo that’s hard to resist.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate sauce over the cupcakes brings an extra layer of decadence, enriching the experience with its deep flavor.
Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee or espresso balance the sweetness perfectly, making each bite more delightful while adding a sophisticated touch.
Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the cupcakes' allure, providing a light, airy counterpart to the rich textures.

Each pairing adds a unique twist, making your dessert presentation even more memorable for any occasion!

Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right strawberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for bright red ones with a natural shine. Avoid those with dark spots or hulls that are green or dried out, as these may indicate over-ripeness. The best strawberries are firm to the touch and have a sweet aroma. For the ultimate flavor, opt for in-season strawberries, typically from late spring to early summer.

What is the best way to store leftover cupcakes?
Very! To keep your Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Ensure they are completely cooled to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy. If you want to keep them longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer, where they can last for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze these cupcakes? How do I go about it?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes, follow these easy steps: First, make sure the cupcakes are cooled completely. Then, without any frosting, individually wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped cupcakes in a freezer-safe container or a Ziploc bag, and they can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. Once thawed, top with cream cheese frosting and fresh strawberry glaze right before serving!

What should I do if my cupcakes don't rise properly?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If your cupcakes don't rise as expected, make sure you're using fresh baking soda, as it can lose potency over time. Additionally, try not to overmix your batter, as this can lead to denser cupcakes. If you find that they are dense, consider gently incorporating more air into your batter by whisking until just combined. Lastly, be sure the oven is fully preheated before you pop them in.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, this recipe is quite versatile. You can easily make it gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. For those with dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives for the frosting. Always check the ingredients in each component—like the frosting and any glazes—to avoid hidden allergens.

How can I make these cupcakes more festive or themed?
The more the merrier! You can easily customize the Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes to match any occasion. For a holiday twist, consider adding peppermint extract to your frosting and topping with crushed candy canes. Alternatively, for a birthday party, you could sprinkle colorful sprinkles on top of the frosting or dust them with edible glitter. Personal touches like these can make your cupcakes extra special!