Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour.
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar.
03 - 1 tablespoon cocoa powder.
04 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder.
05 - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda.
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt.
07 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil.
08 - 1/2 cup buttermilk.
09 - 1 large egg.
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
11 - 1 tablespoon red food coloring.
12 - 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar.
13 - 16 oz cream cheese, softened.
14 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar.
15 - 2 large eggs.
16 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
17 - 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced.
18 - 1/2 cup strawberry preserves.
19 - Whipped cream for garnish.

Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
03 - In another bowl, mix vegetable oil, buttermilk, egg, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar until smooth.
04 - Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
05 - Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely.
06 - In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
07 - Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
08 - Pour the cheesecake mixture into a greased 8-inch springform pan. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 40-45 minutes, until set. Let it cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
09 - Once both the cake and cheesecake have cooled, place the red velvet cake on a serving platter.
10 - Carefully place the cheesecake layer on top of the red velvet cake.
11 - In a small saucepan, heat the strawberry preserves until melted. Spread over the top of the cheesecake.
12 - Arrange the fresh strawberries on top and add a swirl of whipped cream for garnish.
13 - Chill for an additional 1-2 hours before serving.

Notes:

01 - This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake combines the rich flavor of red velvet cake with creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries.
02 - The dessert is perfect for special occasions and can be made ahead to chill in the fridge.