Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

Introduction

Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes are the ultimate fusion of flavors—rich, moist red velvet cake filled with a creamy strawberry cheesecake center and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, from Valentine’s Day to birthdays and celebrations. This guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your cupcakes turn out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Cupcakes:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Garnish:

• Fresh strawberry slices
• Red velvet cake crumbs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Cupcakes

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Mix in oil, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, and mix until just combined.
7. Divide batter evenly into cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
8. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let cupcakes cool completely before filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberry Cheesecake Filling

1. In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Mix in vanilla extract and cornstarch.
3. Fold in the chopped strawberries.
4. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag and set aside.

Step 3: Fill the Cupcakes

1. Using a small knife or cupcake corer, remove the center of each cupcake.
2. Fill the hole with the strawberry cheesecake mixture.
3. Place the removed cake piece back on top lightly.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.
3. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, beating until smooth and spreadable.

Step 5: Decorate the Cupcakes

1. Pipe the frosting onto the filled cupcakes using a piping bag.
2. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and a sprinkle of red velvet cake crumbs.

Variations

1. Chocolate Ganache Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted cupcakes for extra indulgence.

2. Strawberry Jam Filling

• Replace fresh strawberries with strawberry jam in the cheesecake filling for a sweeter touch.

3. Mini Cheesecake Topping

• Add a small dollop of cheesecake mixture on top of the frosting for an extra creamy bite.

Tips for Success

• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.
• Let cupcakes cool completely before filling and frosting to prevent melting.
• Refrigerate cupcakes if making ahead to keep the cheesecake filling fresh.

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes are a stunning and delicious treat that brings together the best of red velvet and cheesecake flavors. With a moist cake, creamy filling, and decadent frosting, they’re sure to impress at any event. Try different variations and enjoy every bite of these delightful cupcakes!