Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes
Looking for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion? Try making Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes! These cupcakes combine the soft, velvety texture of red velvet cake with a creamy cheesecake filling and a fresh strawberry topping. Each bite is a delicious mix of flavors that will surely impress your family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
These Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes are a unique dessert that stands out for several reasons. They offer a beautiful presentation with vibrant red cake and fresh strawberries. Plus, the creamy cheesecake center adds a rich, decadent flavor that is hard to resist. Whether it’s a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these cupcakes will surely be a hit!
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes
Ingredients:
- 1 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1⁄4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1⁄2 tsp baking soda
- 1⁄2 tsp salt
- 1⁄2 cup vegetable oil
- 3⁄4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1⁄2 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1⁄4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
- 1 egg (for filling)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for filling)
- Cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream (for topping)
- Strawberry glaze or warmed strawberry jam (for topping)
- Fresh strawberries, halved (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Add the egg and beat until smooth.
- Mix in the buttermilk, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth for the cheesecake filling.
- Fill each cupcake liner halfway with the red velvet batter.
- Add a spoonful of the cheesecake filling in the center of each cupcake.
- Cover the cheesecake filling with more red velvet batter, filling each liner about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
- Top with cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream, then drizzle with strawberry glaze or warmed strawberry jam.
- Garnish with fresh strawberry halves.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes
Serve these cupcakes fresh at room temperature. They are perfect for parties, celebrations, or as a special treat. Make sure to place them on a nice platter for an appealing presentation.
How to Store Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about 3-4 days. If you haven’t frosted them yet, you may keep the unfrosted cupcakes at room temperature for up to two days.
Tips to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes
- Make sure all your ingredients, especially the cream cheese, are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep your cupcakes light and fluffy.
- Use a cookie scoop for a neat and uniform way to fill your cupcake liners.
Variation
You can switch out the strawberry glaze for a chocolate ganache or caramel sauce for a different twist. Adding nuts such as crushed walnuts or pecans can also enhance the flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container and frost them closer to the time you plan to serve them.
2. Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cupcakes for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are completely cool before wrapping them well to avoid freezer burn.
3. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in your batter.
Enjoy baking and indulging in these delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes!