Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and grease the sides.
2. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Mix in strawberry purée, vanilla extract, and cornstarch until combined.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

2. Make the Red Velvet Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, then mix in buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

3. Make the Strawberry Topping:

1. In a saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly. Cool completely.

4. Make the Frosting:

1. In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

5. Assemble the Cake:

1. Place one red velvet cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream to secure the cheesecake.
2. Add the strawberry cheesecake on top of the first cake layer. Remove the springform pan and parchment carefully.
3. Place the second red velvet cake layer on top of the cheesecake.
4. Frost the top and sides of the cake with whipped cream.

6. Decorate and Serve:

1. Spoon the cooled strawberry topping over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
2. Garnish with fresh strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
3. Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before slicing.

This Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert perfect for special occasions or when you’re craving something decadently indulgent! ❤️🍓