Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe

When it comes to indulgent desserts, Red Velvet Cheesecake hits all the right notes. It’s not just about looks; this dessert packs a punch in the flavor department too. The rich, subtle cocoa flavor of the red velvet cake complements the tanginess of the cream cheese filling, making every bite a mouthwatering experience.

How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake

Whole Red Velvet Cheesecake on a plate with frosting

Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Cake:

  • 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 cups cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. Make the Red Velvet Cake: In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, oil, food coloring, vanilla, buttermilk, and vinegar. Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until the batter is smooth.
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  4. Bake the Red Velvet Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely.
  5. Prepare the cheesecake filling by beating the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Then, add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla, mixing until everything is well combined. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled cakes.
  6. Bake the Cheesecake: Place the cakes back into the oven and bake for an additional 45 minutes to an hour, until the center is set but slightly wobbly. Allow the cheesecakes to cool completely.
  7. Make the frosting by beating the butter and cream cheese until creamy. Slowly add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  8. Assemble the Red Velvet Cheesecake: Once the cakes have cooled, stack one on top of the other. Frost with the cream cheese frosting and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Check out these delicious red velvet treats:

Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cheesecake

Close-up slice of Red Velvet Cheesecake
  1. Use Buttermilk: For the best flavor and texture, don’t skip the buttermilk in the red velvet cake. It brings a tangy touch that balances the cake’s sweetness beautifully.
  2. Don’t Overmix: When making the cheesecake filling, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can cause cracks in your cheesecake.
  3. Let the Cake Cool Completely: Allow the red velvet cake layers to cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling. This will prevent the filling from melting or becoming too soft.
  4. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: To avoid lumps in the cream cheese filling and frosting, make sure your cream cheese, butter, and eggs are at room temperature.

Red Velvet Cheesecake Variations

While the classic Red Velvet Cheesecake is delicious on its own, you can mix things up and get creative with some fun variations.

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

If you’re looking for a smaller, more portable version of the Red Velvet Cheesecake, try making Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies. Simply add a layer of cheesecake filling on top of the red velvet brownie batter and bake as usual. You’ll get all the flavor of the original dessert in a bite-sized treat!

Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies

For a unique twist, bake Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies. These soft, chewy cookies are filled with a creamy cheesecake center, giving you the best of both worlds.

Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes

If you’re hosting a party or celebration, Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes are a fun and individual way to serve this dessert. You can top each cupcake with a dollop of cream cheese frosting and enjoy a portable, single-serving version of this indulgent treat.

FAQs

What makes Red Velvet Cheesecake so special?

Red Velvet Cheesecake combines the soft, rich texture of red velvet cake with the creamy, tangy flavor of cheesecake, making it a decadent and visually stunning dessert. The bright red color and luscious cream cheese filling make it stand out at any occasion.

Can I make Red Velvet Cheesecake in advance?

Yes! Red Velvet Cheesecake can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 2-3 days before serving. It actually tastes better after chilling, as the flavors have time to meld together.

How do I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

To prevent cracks, ensure that your cheesecake is baked at a low temperature and doesn’t overcook. Allow it to cool gradually in the oven with the door slightly ajar, and let it rest at room temperature before refrigerating.

Can I use regular cake mix for Red Velvet Cheesecake?

While using cake mix for the red velvet layer is an option, making the batter from scratch allows for better control over the texture and flavor of the cake. However, using cake mix can save time.

How do I store Red Velvet Cheesecake?

Store your Red Velvet Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze Red Velvet Cheesecake?

Yes, you can freeze Red Velvet Cheesecake for up to 3 months. Simply wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn.

Is Red Velvet Cheesecake gluten-free?

Traditional Red Velvet Cheesecake contains flour and is not gluten-free. You can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting a gluten-free flour blend.

How can I make Red Velvet Cheesecake less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the sugar in both the cake and cheesecake layers. Additionally, using a tangier cream cheese frosting can help balance out the sweetness.

Close-up slice of Red Velvet Cheesecake with raspberry drizzle

Red Velvet Cheesecake

Chef Bella
Red Velvet Cheesecake combines the richness of red velvet cake with a creamy cheesecake filling, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. It's the perfect dessert for any special occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Red Velvet Cake:

  • 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp red food coloring
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp white vinegar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 cups cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup butter softened
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease two 9-inch round pans.
  • Make the red velvet cake: Mix dry ingredients, then add wet ingredients and stir until smooth. Divide batter between pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  • Prepare cheesecake filling: Beat cream cheese and sour cream, then add sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Pour over the cakes and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Make frosting: Beat butter and cream cheese, then add powdered sugar and vanilla. Frost the cooled cakes.
  • Chill and serve: Refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.

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