Description
Experience the luscious blend of creamy cheesecake and classic red velvet cake with this Red Velvet Cheesecake recipe. Featuring a rich, tangy cream cheese base, subtle cocoa undertones, and a striking red hue, this dessert is a showstopper for any celebration or sweet craving. Its smooth texture and customizable crust and toppings make it a versatile treat that delights every palate.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheesecake Batter
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, sifted (or gluten-free flour for GF option)
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) graham cracker crumbs or Oreo crumbs
- 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Combine crushed graham cracker or Oreo crumbs with melted butter until evenly moistened. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form a solid, flavorful base.
- Make the Cheesecake Batter: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Fold in sour cream, vanilla extract, and sifted cocoa powder for the red velvet flavor.
- Add Red Coloring and Flour: Stir in red food coloring to achieve the vibrant red color. Gently fold in flour to ensure the batter sets perfectly while keeping a light and creamy texture. Avoid overmixing.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Pour the batter over the prepared crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes, until the center is mostly set but still slightly jiggly. Cool gradually to prevent cracks.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up beautifully before serving.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to maintain moisture and prevent cracks.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly in a turned-off oven for best texture and to reduce surface cracking.
- Mix ingredients just enough to combine to keep the cheesecake tender.
- Run a knife around the edges after baking and cooling to prevent cracks when releasing from the pan.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 190 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: Red Velvet Cheesecake, cheesecake, red velvet, dessert, baked cheesecake, creamy dessert, celebration dessert, gluten-free cheesecake