If you’re craving a delicious and indulgent treat that combines the flavors of red velvet cake, cheesecake, and fresh strawberries, look no further than these Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes. With their rich red velvet base, creamy cheesecake filling, and sweet strawberry chunks, these cupcakes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, attending a potluck, or simply want a sweet bite for yourself, these cupcakes will surely impress with their vibrant color and delightful flavor. The combination of fluffy red velvet cake and smooth, tangy cheesecake filling topped with fresh strawberries creates a perfect balance of richness and freshness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. The Perfect Combination of Flavors

These cupcakes blend the rich flavor of red velvet cake with the creamy, tangy goodness of cheesecake, topped with fresh strawberries, making every bite an irresistible treat.

2. Easy to Make

Using a box of red velvet cake mix simplifies the process while still delivering the moist and tender texture you love in homemade cupcakes.

3. Gorgeous Presentation

The red velvet color, cheesecake swirl, and fresh strawberries create a visually stunning treat that will steal the spotlight at any event.

4. Perfectly Balanced Sweetness

The cheesecake filling provides just the right balance to the sweetness of the red velvet cake, while the strawberries add a refreshing, fruity note.

5. Versatile for Any Occasion

These cupcakes are ideal for holidays, birthdays, or casual get-togethers. They are sure to delight your guests and satisfy any sweet cravings.

Ingredients

Red velvet cake mix
Eggs
Vegetable oil
Water
Cream cheese (softened)
Sugar
Vanilla extract
Fresh strawberries (chopped)

Variations

Fruit Toppings: In addition to strawberries, you can top the cupcakes with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a different twist.
Chocolate Chip Addition: Add chocolate chips to the red velvet batter for extra sweetness and a little surprise in each bite.
Frosting Options: Top these cupcakes with a traditional cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix to make these cupcakes gluten-free, and ensure that the cream cheese mixture and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Cupcake Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.

Step 2: Prepare the Red Velvet Cake Mix

Prepare the red velvet cake mix according to the package instructions. This usually involves adding eggs, vegetable oil, and water to the mix and stirring until smooth.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well-combined.

Step 4: Add the Strawberries

Gently fold the chopped strawberries into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring that they are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Fill the Cupcake Liners

Fill each cupcake liner halfway with the red velvet cake batter, leaving room for the cheesecake mixture and more batter on top.

Step 6: Add the Cheesecake Mixture

Spoon a dollop of the cream cheese and strawberry mixture on top of the red velvet batter in each cupcake liner.

Step 7: Top with More Red Velvet Batter

Top the cheesecake mixture with more red velvet cake batter, filling each liner until it is about 3/4 full.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the cupcakes for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Serve

Allow the cupcakes to cool before serving. For added freshness, you can top them with extra strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate ganache if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for the best texture in the cheesecake filling.
Do Not Overmix: Be gentle when folding in the strawberries to avoid breaking them apart. A few small chunks of strawberries add a nice texture to the filling.
Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, check the cupcakes at the 18-minute mark and continue baking if necessary. They are done when a toothpick comes out clean.
Chill Before Serving: These cupcakes taste even better after they’ve cooled and set, so allow them to chill in the fridge for a bit before serving for a firmer cheesecake center.

How to Serve

Serve these Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes on their own or as part of a dessert spread. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of extra whipped cream. For an added touch, top them with more fresh strawberries or drizzle with a little melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help keep the cheesecake filling fresh and prevent the cupcakes from drying out.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each cooled cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

While these cupcakes are best served chilled, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer them a little warmer. Be sure to remove any frosting or toppings before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade red velvet cake mix?

Yes, you can substitute a homemade red velvet cake recipe for the box mix if you prefer a more from-scratch approach.

2. Can I make these cupcakes without eggs?

Yes, you can use an egg substitute such as flaxseed or a store-bought egg replacer to make these cupcakes egg-free.

3. How do I prevent the cheesecake filling from sinking?

To prevent the cheesecake filling from sinking, don’t overfill the cupcake liners with red velvet batter. Layer the cream cheese mixture carefully and top it with more batter.

4. Can I add frosting to these cupcakes?

Yes! You can add cream cheese frosting or whipped cream for extra sweetness. These cupcakes are already quite rich, so frosting is optional.

5. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, these cupcakes can be made a day or two in advance. Simply store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

6. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the cheesecake filling.

7. Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix to make these cupcakes gluten-free.

8. How long do these cupcakes last?

These cupcakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the cheesecake filling may start to soften.

9. Can I decorate the cupcakes with something else besides strawberries?

Yes, you can top these cupcakes with raspberries, blueberries, or a drizzle of chocolate for a different twist.

10. Do I need to refrigerate the cupcakes?

Yes, the cheesecake filling requires refrigeration to keep it firm and fresh. Keep these cupcakes in the fridge until ready to serve.

Conclusion

These Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes are the perfect fusion of rich, velvety cake and creamy, fruity filling. They’re easy to make, visually stunning, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect dessert for any celebration. With fresh strawberries adding a touch of brightness to the decadent red velvet and cheesecake, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re hosting a special event or treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, these cupcakes will not disappoint!