Description
This Red Velvet Cheesecake is the ultimate fusion of two classic desserts: rich, velvety red cake and creamy, smooth cheesecake. With its striking red hue and luscious texture, this show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or holidays. A buttery chocolate crust, a silky cheesecake layer, and a moist red velvet topping make this an irresistible treat!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups Oreo cookie crumbs (about 18 Oreos)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Red Velvet Cake Layer:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine Oreo crumbs and melted butter, mixing until evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the cheesecake layer.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract, then beat in the eggs, one at a time.
- Mix in the sour cream until smooth. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Red Velvet Cake Layer
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, egg, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- Carefully spoon the red velvet batter over the cheesecake layer and spread it evenly.
Step 4: Bake the Cheesecake
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted in the cake comes out clean.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside with the door slightly open for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional)
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy.
- Spread or pipe the frosting over the cheesecake before serving.
Notes
- For a smoother cheesecake layer, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- If you prefer a thicker cheesecake layer, double the cheesecake ingredients and increase baking time by 10-15 minutes.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings, red velvet cake crumbs, or whipped cream for extra flair.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
