The Story & Intro
Every Christmas back in Crete, my kitchen smells like vanilla, cocoa, and sweet berries long before the tree is even decorated. I still remember standing beside my grandmother on a small wooden stool, watching her whisk vibrant red batter while telling me stories about family, love, and patience. That’s where my love for cakes truly began. This Strawberry Red Velvet Christmas Cake brings all those memories flooding back in the most beautiful way.
The first time I made this Strawberry Red Velvet Christmas Cake, my kitchen was a complete mess flour on the counter, strawberry puree on my apron, and frosting on my nose. But oh, the joy when I sliced into those deep red layers and saw the soft pink strawberry cream cheese filling waiting inside! This cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a celebration.
What I love most about this Strawberry Red Velvet Christmas Cake is how it blends classic holiday flavors with a fresh fruity twist. The rich cocoa notes of red velvet meet the bright sweetness of strawberries, and the cream cheese frosting ties it all together with a smooth, tangy finish. It feels festive, elegant, and comforting all at once.
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that feels homemade, heartfelt, and unforgettable, this Strawberry Red Velvet Christmas Cake will steal the spotlight on your holiday table. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this cake brings warmth, joy, and sweet memories with every slice.
Why This Strawberry Red Velvet Christmas Cake Is So Special
This cake stands out because it balances richness and freshness perfectly. Traditional red velvet can sometimes feel heavy, but adding strawberry cream cheese frosting lightens everything with its fruity brightness. The color alone makes it perfect for Christmas deep red layers with soft pink filling feel magical and festive.
It’s also incredibly versatile. You can bake it as a layered celebration cake, a sheet cake for a crowd, or even cupcakes for gifting. No matter how you serve it, the flavor always delivers a true holiday wow-factor.
Ingredients for Strawberry Red Velvet Christmas Cake
For the Red Velvet Cake Layers
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1–2 tablespoons red gel food coloring
For the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 5 cups powdered sugar
- ¾ cup strawberry puree (fresh or frozen strawberries blended)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh strawberries
- White chocolate shavings
- Christmas sprinkles
- Mint leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two or three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. This step helps your layers release cleanly without sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside so it’s ready when you need it.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the sugar and vegetable oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring until the batter turns a beautiful deep red.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until smooth but don’t overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Make the Strawberry Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the cream cheese and butter together until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Pour in the strawberry puree, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until smooth, light, and creamy.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of strawberry cream cheese frosting on top. Add the second layer and repeat. Frost the entire outside of the cake smoothly.
Step 8: Decorate
Top with fresh strawberries, white chocolate curls, or Christmas sprinkles for a festive finish.
Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry Red Velvet Christmas Cake pairs beautifully with:
- Hot cocoa or peppermint tea
- Fresh whipped cream on the side
- A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
Serve it slightly chilled for clean slices, but let it sit out for 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Storage Tips
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Cover tightly to prevent the cake from drying out.
- You can freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months.
Short 100-Word Version (For Quick Readers)
This Strawberry Red Velvet Christmas Cake features soft, cocoa-kissed red velvet layers filled with creamy strawberry cream cheese frosting. It’s a festive twist on a classic holiday cake that’s rich, fruity, and perfect for celebrations. The combination of deep red cake and pink strawberry filling makes every slice look magical. Easy to prepare and stunning on any Christmas table, this cake brings together comforting tradition and fresh flavor. It’s ideal for family gatherings, holiday parties, or gifting something homemade with love.
🎄 Recipe Card 🍓
⏱ TIME COOK: 50 minutes
📝 INGREDIENTS:
Red velvet cake layers, strawberry cream cheese frosting, strawberries for garnish
👩🍳 INSTRUCTION:
Bake red velvet cake layers, prepare strawberry cream cheese frosting, assemble layers, decorate, and chill before serving.
📌 NOTE:
Use fresh strawberries for the brightest flavor and color.
🥗 Nutrition (Per Slice Approx):
Calories: 420 | Fat: 22g | Carbs: 52g | Protein: 5g
Conclusion
This Strawberry Red Velvet Christmas Cake is everything I love about holiday baking colorful, joyful, comforting, and full of love. Every slice reminds me why I fell in love with cooking as a little girl beside my grandmother in Crete. It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about the memories we bake into every layer.
Whether you’re a beginner baker or someone who’s been baking for years, this cake is forgiving, rewarding, and guaranteed to impress. I hope it becomes part of your Christmas tradition just like it has become part of mine. Let your kitchen get a little messy, let your heart feel warm, and let this cake bring smiles to everyone around your table.