Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes – Rich, Creamy, and Perfectly Decadent

Hello friends, Chef James here, welcoming you back into my kitchen at Tiramisucake.com. Today’s recipe is one of those showstoppers that instantly turns an ordinary day into a celebration: Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes. These cupcakes combine three irresistible elements—moist red velvet cake, a creamy cheesecake center, and a sweet strawberry topping—for a dessert that feels both elegant and comforting.

I first developed this recipe after seeing how much readers loved layered strawberry desserts like Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls. Red velvet already has that rich, bakery-style charm, but adding a cheesecake filling takes it to another level. These cupcakes are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you want to impress without making a full cake.

If you enjoy desserts that balance bold flavors with a beautiful presentation, this recipe is about to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love These Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

• Moist, tender red velvet cupcakes every time
• Creamy cheesecake center in every bite
• Sweet strawberry topping for a fresh contrast
• Perfectly portioned and easy to serve
• Ideal for parties, holidays, and special occasions

Are you more drawn to classic red velvet or fruity cheesecake desserts? These cupcakes give you the best of both.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each layer plays a key role in flavor and texture:

For the red velvet cupcakes:

• All-purpose flour (1½ cups) – Structure
• Granulated sugar (1 cup) – Sweetness
• Cocoa powder (1 tablespoon) – Subtle chocolate depth
• Baking soda (½ teaspoon) – Light texture
• Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Flavor balance
• Buttermilk (1 cup) – Moist crumb
• Vegetable oil (½ cup) – Keeps cupcakes tender
• Eggs (2 large) – Structure
• Red food coloring (1 tablespoon) – Classic color
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) – Flavor enhancer

For the cheesecake filling:

• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened)
• Powdered sugar (¼ cup)
• Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon)

For the strawberry topping:

• Strawberry preserves (¾ cup)
• Fresh strawberries (optional, sliced)

Chef James tip: Full-fat cream cheese gives the smoothest, richest filling.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix sugar, oil, eggs, buttermilk, food coloring, and vanilla.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
5. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
6. Fill each liner halfway with red velvet batter.
7. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of cheesecake filling into the center.
8. Top with a little more red velvet batter.
9. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until set.
10. Cool completely before topping with strawberry preserves and fresh strawberries.

Extra tip from Chef James: Let the cupcakes cool fully so the cheesecake center sets cleanly.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Party platter: Pair with fun bite-sized desserts like Cherry Pie Bombs
• Bakery-style spread: Serve alongside Blackberry Cinnamon Rolls
• Cookie contrast: Add Soft Strawberry Cheesecake Cookies to the table
• Holiday vibe: These cupcakes look stunning next to festive treats like Snowball Cake

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Store cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Bring to room temperature before serving
• Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months
• Add strawberry topping just before serving for best texture

These cupcakes are ideal for preparing ahead of busy celebrations.

FAQs About Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

Can I make these without food coloring?
Yes, they’ll still taste great but won’t be red.

Do I need fresh strawberries?
No, preserves alone work beautifully.

Are these very sweet?
They’re balanced—the cheesecake cuts the sweetness.

Can I use a boxed red velvet mix?
Yes, for a shortcut, but homemade gives better texture.

Are these good for events?
Absolutely—they’re elegant and easy to serve.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales perfectly for parties.

What to Serve With Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

These cupcakes shine when paired with rich cherry desserts like Dark Chocolate Cherry Cups or indulgent classics such as Chocolate Cherry Lush. For an elegant finish, add Cherry Amaretto Tiramisu or a flourless option like Flourless Chocolate Cherry Cake.

Final Thoughts from Chef James

Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes are proof that combining beloved classics can create something truly unforgettable. Moist red velvet, creamy cheesecake, and sweet strawberries come together in a dessert that feels special without being intimidating to make.

As always, remember to follow basic food safety guidance from the USDA at https://www.fsis.usda.gov/ and draw inspiration from trusted culinary sources like Food Network and Serious Eats. Bake these cupcakes for your next gathering, and don’t be surprised if they disappear fast. Happy baking ❤️🧁

Print