Red Velvet Strawberry Cream Cake Recipe

If you are looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines vibrant colors, rich flavors, and a fresh fruity twist, the Red Velvet Strawberry Cream Cake is exactly what you need. This cake is a harmonious blend of velvety red velvet layers, luscious cream cheese frosting, and juicy strawberries that come together to delight both your eyes and your taste buds. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply craving a sweet treat that feels extra special, this recipe offers a perfect balance of classic comfort and fresh flair.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in crafting that perfect Red Velvet Strawberry Cream Cake. From the foundational flour that gives structure to the rich cream cheese that adds smoothness, each element is both simple and essential.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s tender crumb and structure, making it the sturdy base for all the flavors.
• Granulated sugar: Brings sweetness that balances the subtle cocoa and tang from the buttermilk.
• Baking soda and baking powder: Create lift and lightness in the cake layers, ensuring they are soft but not dense.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds depth to the red velvet flavor without overpowering the strawberry elements.
• Buttermilk: Gives a slight tang and extra moisture for a tender crumb; you can use milk with vinegar if preferred.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft, much more than butter would in this case.
• Eggs: Bind everything together while lending richness and a light texture.
• Red food coloring (gel preferred): Provides that signature vibrant and eye-catching red that defines red velvet.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a sweet and aromatic touch.
• White vinegar: Reacts with the baking soda for a tender crumb and subtle tanginess typical of red velvet.
• Cream cheese: The star of the frosting and filling, offering creamy tang and smooth texture.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and softness to the cream cheese frosting.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect spreadable consistency.
• Salt: Just a pinch to brighten and balance the sweetness of the frosting.
• Fresh strawberries: Bring natural juiciness and vibrant freshness, essential to the strawberry cream aspect.
• Strawberry jam or syrup (optional): Adds a glossy finish and extra fruity sweetness when drizzled on top.

How to Make Red Velvet Strawberry Cream Cake

Step 1: Bake the Red Velvet Cake

Start your baking journey by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your cake pans with grease and parchment paper for easy release. Mixing dry ingredients including flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt separately allows for even distribution before combining with your wet ingredients. The wet mixture—sugar, oil, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla, vinegar, and red food coloring—needs to be smooth and vibrant. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones just until combined to preserve airiness. Pour your batter evenly into two pans and bake for 28 to 32 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, and the cakes should be fully cooled before frosting.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cakes cool, whip up the luscious cream cheese frosting. Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and fluffy—that’s the base that makes spreading effortless and taste divine. Gradually add powdered sugar to reach your desired sweetness and texture. Finish it off with vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance all the flavors. This frosting is smooth enough to spread but sturdy enough to hold those fresh strawberries perfectly.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Place one cooled red velvet layer on your serving plate and cover it generously with cream cheese frosting. For a surprise burst of freshness and texture, add a layer of sliced strawberries on top of the frosting. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting, smoothing it out for an elegant finish. For a rustic charm, use any cake crumbs trimmed from the edges to press around the bottom edge of the cake—it adds a delightful texture and visual appeal.

Step 4: Decorate

To truly showcase the Red Velvet Strawberry Cream Cake, pipe extra frosting swirls or dollops on top. Arrange halved fresh strawberries beautifully across the top, inviting eyes and appetites alike. For that final wow factor, gently drizzle warm strawberry jam or syrup for a glossy, inviting finish. This decorative touch not only adds flavor but makes your cake irresistible at first sight.

How to Serve Red Velvet Strawberry Cream Cake

Garnishes

Garnishes really bring the finishing touch to this cake. Fresh strawberry halves, sprigs of mint, or even a dusting of powdered sugar on top add extra visual appeal and brighten each bite. The tartness of fresh berries complements the creamy richness of the frosting perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve this cake alongside light accompaniments like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a refreshing berry compote. A cup of fragrant coffee or a glass of sparkling rosé can also elevate the enjoyment, balancing sweetness with a little acidity or bitterness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a party, consider creating individual cake jars layered with cake pieces, frosting, and strawberry slices for a fun, portable twist. Alternatively, slice the cake into neat mini squares and serve them on decorative plates with a fresh strawberry on the side for a classy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Red Velvet Strawberry Cream Cake keeps best when stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly to prevent drying out. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent choice for prepping in advance or enjoying as leftovers.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the cake, it’s best to freeze the unfrosted layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Once thawed completely, assemble and frost the cake. This method preserves the cake’s moisture and texture beautifully.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it closer to room temperature, allow it to sit out for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, as it may affect the texture of the cream cheese frosting and strawberries.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 ½ cups of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This acid helps tenderize the cake and reacts with the baking soda for the perfect crumb.

Is it necessary to use red food coloring?

The red food coloring gives this cake its iconic look, but you can reduce the amount or skip it if you prefer a more natural hue. Keep in mind that traditional red velvet has that vibrant red that contrasts beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.

Can I prepare the cake in advance?

Absolutely! The cake layers can be baked a day ahead and stored wrapped tightly. Assemble and frost the cake shortly before serving for the freshest taste and presentation.

What if I don’t have fresh strawberries?

Frozen strawberries can be used, but fresh is highly recommended for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid to prevent sogginess.

How do I get sharp clean slices when serving?

Chill the cake for at least an hour before slicing, and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. This helps achieve neat slices without smearing the frosting.

Final Thoughts

I hope you are as excited as I am to try baking this Red Velvet Strawberry Cream Cake. It’s a recipe that never disappoints and always brings smiles to the table. Combining classic red velvet with fresh strawberries and creamy frosting creates a dessert experience that’s truly unforgettable. Give it a go—you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly this cake turns any occasion into something extraordinary.

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