Strawberry Red Velvet Cheesecake

Who can resist a luscious dessert that marries the deep, rich flavors of red velvet with the fresh, fruity delight of strawberries? Introducing the Strawberry Red Velvet Cheesecake: an irresistible dessert layered with creamy cheesecake, strawberry mousse, and whipped cream, all resting on a chocolate graham cracker crust. It’s perfect for any special occasion, but beware—it might steal the show! Let’s dive into the recipe.

Ingredients

Red Velvet Cheesecake Layer:

• 10 chocolate graham crackers, about 1 1/2 cups (130g) cookie crumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• Red food coloring

Strawberry Mousse Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, chilled
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
• 2 cups diced strawberries, divided
• 1 teaspoon strawberry extract
• Red food coloring (optional)
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin

Strawberry Whipped Cream Layer:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted
• 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon strawberry extract
• 2 cups heavy cream, chilled

Garnish:

• Extra strawberries

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. Double-wrap a 9-inch springform pan with foil and set aside.
3. Pulse the chocolate graham crackers into fine crumbs. Add melted butter and pulse again until the crumbs are well coated.
4. Press the mixture into the pan to form a crust.

Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Cheesecake

1. Beat the softened cream cheese, then add eggs, sugar, mascarpone, and sour cream until smooth.
2. Mix in cocoa powder and red food coloring.
3. Pour over the prepared crust.
4. Prepare a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger baking dish filled halfway with hot water.
5. Bake for about 1 hour and 10-15 minutes or until the center is set.

Step 3: Add the Strawberry Layer

1. Allow the cheesecake to cool completely.
2. Arrange the sliced strawberries over the cooled cheesecake.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Mousse

1. Whip the chilled heavy cream to stiff peaks.
2. In another bowl, blend mascarpone, melted white chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and strawberry extract until smooth.
3. Fold in 1 cup of diced strawberries and the gelatin mixture.
4. Gently fold in the whipped cream.
5. Pour the mousse over the cheesecake and level it with a spatula.

Step 5: Make the Strawberry Whipped Cream

1. Cream together the softened cream cheese, melted white chocolate, sugar, and strawberry extract until smooth.
2. Add the heavy cream and whip until stiff peaks form.
3. Pipe the whipped cream onto the mousse layer.

Step 6: Final Assembly

1. Chill the entire cheesecake overnight.
2. Garnish with extra strawberries, and enjoy!

Conclusion

While this Strawberry Red Velvet Cheesecake requires a bit of time and patience, it’s worth every second. The combination of a decadent cheesecake, sweet strawberry mousse, and luscious whipped cream will captivate your taste buds and make your guests swoon. Enjoy this dessert as a show-stopping centerpiece for your next celebration!

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Chill Time: 8 hours
Total Time: ~10 hours
Servings: 12
Calories per Serving: ~500 kcal

Let us know how yours turns out or share your favorite twist on this delightful recipe!