Description
A decadent dessert combining the rich, smooth texture of classic cheesecake with the vibrant color and subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet cake. This Red Velvet Cheesecake features a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy red velvet cheesecake filling, and a luscious cream cheese topping, perfect for special occasions or an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Red Velvet Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (3 packages) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Cream Cheese Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in sour cream, cocoa powder, flour, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is uniform and free of lumps.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Place the pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. To prevent cracking, you can place a water bath beneath the pan while baking.
- Cool the Cheesecake: Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour. Then, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to set fully.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined.
- Finish and Serve: Spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Optionally, garnish with red velvet cake crumbs or fresh berries before serving. Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts and enjoy your rich red velvet cheesecake!
Notes
- Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- To avoid cracks, avoid overmixing and consider using a water bath during baking.
- If you don’t have a springform pan, line a regular cake pan with parchment paper.
- Red food coloring amount can be adjusted to achieve desired vibrancy.
- Let the cheesecake chill overnight for best texture and flavor.