Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake: A Decadent Dessert Dream

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease a springform pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, buttermilk, food coloring, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. For the cheesecake layer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, and eggs, blending until creamy. Fold in the chopped strawberries.
8. Pour the cheesecake mixture on top of the red velvet batter.
9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the edges are lightly browned.
10. Allow to cool completely before removing from the pan. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.
11. Serve with additional fresh strawberries or chocolate sauce if desired.