Who’s ready to bake something magical? This Unicorn Strawberry Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Cake is a true showstopper perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or simply indulging in a slice of whimsy. With layers of moist red velvet cake, creamy cheesecake swirls, and a hint of strawberry, this dessert isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s an art piece. Let’s dive into how to bring this delightful creation to life in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this gorgeous cake, with a little insight into why each ingredient is essential.
For the Red Velvet Cake Layers:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of your cake, giving it structure. Sift it for a lighter texture.
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder – Just a hint for that subtle chocolatey undertone.
- 1 tsp baking soda – Helps the cake rise beautifully.
- ½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly.
- 1 cup buttermilk – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Ensures the cake is soft and rich.
- 2 large eggs – Provides structure and moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp white vinegar – Reacts with baking soda for a fluffy texture.
- 1-2 tbsp red food coloring – The signature red velvet hue! Adjust based on your preference.
For the Cheesecake Swirl:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened) – The star ingredient for a creamy swirl.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake perfectly.
- 2 large eggs – Makes the cheesecake silky and luscious.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – A must for that classic cheesecake flavor.
For the Strawberry Swirl:
- ½ cup strawberry puree – Bursting with natural sweetness. Use fresh or frozen strawberries blended smooth.
- 1-2 tbsp sugar – Optional, to enhance the sweetness of the berries.
For the Topping:
- Fresh strawberries – For that wow-factor garnish.
- Whipped cream – Adds a dreamy finishing touch.
- Sprinkles or edible glitter – Because unicorn magic needs sparkle!
How to Make the Unicorn Strawberry Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Cake
This recipe is a labor of love, but trust me—it’s absolutely worth it! Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the sugar, oil, and eggs until creamy. Stir in the buttermilk, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Batter
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until fluffy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing just until combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Swirl
- Blend the strawberries into a smooth puree. Taste and add sugar if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
- Divide the red velvet batter evenly among the three pans.
- Spoon the cheesecake batter on top of each layer, swirling it gently with the back of a knife.
- Add dollops of strawberry puree and swirl it with the cheesecake layer for that gorgeous marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean. Let the layers cool completely before assembling.
Step 6: Assemble and Decorate
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and spread whipped cream over the top. Repeat with the other layers.
- Frost the sides and top with more whipped cream. Garnish with fresh strawberries, sprinkles, and edible glitter.
Equipment Needed
- 3 8-inch round cake pans
- Hand or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Parchment paper
- Spatula and knife for swirling
- Blender or food processor for strawberry puree
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought strawberry puree?
Yes, you can save time by using pre-made puree. Just make sure it’s unsweetened so you can control the sweetness.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! The layers can be baked a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Assemble and decorate on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest presentation.
How do I ensure the cheesecake layer doesn’t sink?
Make sure the cake batter is thick enough to hold the cheesecake and swirl it lightly—don’t overmix.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
What can I use instead of red food coloring?
You can use natural alternatives like beet juice or skip it entirely. The cake will still taste delicious!
How do I avoid overbaking the cake?
Check for doneness at the 25-minute mark. The edges should pull away slightly from the pan, but the center should be moist.
Can I use a different frosting?
Of course! Cream cheese frosting or even a strawberry buttercream would pair beautifully with this cake.
Conclusion
And there you have it—the Unicorn Strawberry Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Cake in all its glory! I hope you loved following along with this recipe as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. The magical colors, irresistible flavors, and rich textures are sure to make this a hit at your next gathering.
If you tried this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Don’t forget to share it with your friends on Facebook using the buttons below or save it on Pinterest for later. Happy baking! 🌈
