Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes are the kind of dessert that instantly feels special. With their rich red velvet base, creamy cheesecake center, and sweet strawberry topping, these cupcakes bring together three beloved desserts into one unforgettable bite. Each cupcake is soft, moist, and indulgent, with layers of flavor and texture that make them perfect for celebrations, holidays, or anytime you want to impress.

The deep cocoa notes of red velvet cake pair beautifully with the tangy richness of cheesecake, while the strawberry glaze adds a fresh, fruity finish that balances the sweetness. These cupcakes don’t just look stunning — they taste like something straight from a high-end bakery. Whether you’re baking for a party or simply treating yourself, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results at home.

What makes these cupcakes truly special is the surprise cheesecake center hidden inside. As you bite into the cupcake, you’re met with a creamy, luscious filling that elevates the entire dessert experience. Topped with fluffy frosting and glossy strawberries, these cupcakes are guaranteed to steal the spotlight wherever they’re served.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes are a standout dessert for so many reasons:

• Three Desserts in One: Red velvet cake, cheesecake, and strawberry topping all in one cupcake
• Moist and Tender: Oil and buttermilk keep the cupcakes soft and rich
• Creamy Cheesecake Center: A surprise filling that takes these cupcakes to the next level
• Beautiful Presentation: Vibrant red cake topped with strawberries makes them visually stunning
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, holidays, or bake sales
• Bakery-Style Flavor at Home: Tastes like a professional dessert without complicated steps

Once you make these, they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe for special occasions.

Preparation and Baking Time

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Bake Time: 18–22 minutes
• Cooling & Decorating: 30 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Cupcakes

• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

• Cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream
• Strawberry glaze or strawberry jam, slightly warmed
• Fresh strawberries, halved

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners and set aside.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated. Set aside.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

4. Prepare the Red Velvet Batter

In a separate bowl, mix the vegetable oil and granulated sugar until combined. Add the egg, buttermilk, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring. Mix until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients and stir just until combined — avoid overmixing.

5. Assemble the Cupcakes

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of red velvet batter into each cupcake liner. Add 1 heaping teaspoon of cheesecake filling to the center, then top with more red velvet batter until liners are about ¾ full.

6. Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops spring back lightly and a toothpick inserted off-center comes out clean. Let cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before decorating.

7. Decorate

Pipe cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream onto each cooled cupcake. Drizzle with warmed strawberry glaze or jam and finish with a halved fresh strawberry.

How to Serve

• Serve at room temperature for the best texture and flavor
• Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk
• Arrange on a dessert stand for parties or special events

These cupcakes also make an eye-catching addition to dessert tables and gift boxes.

Additional Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are fully softened for smooth filling
• Don’t Overfill: Overfilled liners can cause overflow during baking
• Chill Before Frosting: Slightly chilled cupcakes are easier to frost cleanly
• Homemade Strawberry Glaze: Heat strawberry jam with a splash of water for a glossy drizzle

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Strawberry Version: Add chocolate ganache under the strawberry glaze
• Mini Cupcakes: Use a mini muffin pan and reduce bake time to 12–15 minutes
• Extra Cheesecake Center: Increase filling slightly for a more dramatic surprise

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezing: Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 2 months
• Make Ahead: Bake cupcakes a day in advance and decorate before serving

Conclusion

Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes are the ultimate indulgent dessert — rich, creamy, fruity, and visually stunning. With their cheesecake-filled center and vibrant strawberry topping, they deliver flavor and elegance in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply craving something extraordinary