introduction
Red velvet cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves rich, creamy textures paired with a hint of chocolate and tangy cream cheese flavor. It combines the elegance of cheesecake with the iconic color and subtle cocoa notes of red velvet cake. The first time I made this dessert, it was for a special occasion, and it immediately became the centerpiece of the table. The contrast between the smooth cheesecake layer and the tender red velvet base makes every bite feel luxurious.
What makes this recipe truly special is its balance. The red velvet layer is moist and flavorful without being overly sweet, while the cheesecake layer adds richness and structure. Together, they create a dessert that feels celebratory and refined. This red velvet cheesecake is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or anytime you want to impress with a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers a stunning dessert with classic flavors and a creamy, satisfying texture. It is visually striking, rich without being overwhelming, and perfect for special occasions or make-ahead entertaining.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chocolate cookie crumbs
Chocolate cookie crumbs create a firm, flavorful crust that complements the red velvet and cheesecake layers.
Unsalted butter
Butter binds the crust and adds richness and structure.
Cream cheese
Cream cheese is the foundation of the cheesecake layer, providing smooth texture and tangy flavor.
Granulated sugar
Sugar sweetens both layers while maintaining balance and structure.
Eggs
Eggs help set the cheesecake and provide richness and stability.
Sour cream
Sour cream adds creaminess and a slight tang, preventing the cheesecake from becoming too dense.
Vanilla extract
Vanilla enhances both the cheesecake and red velvet flavors.
All-purpose flour
Flour provides structure to the red velvet layer.
Cocoa powder
Cocoa powder gives red velvet its signature subtle chocolate flavor.
Red food coloring
Red food coloring creates the classic deep red hue associated with red velvet.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness while balancing sweetness with acidity.
Baking soda
Baking soda helps the red velvet layer rise slightly and stay soft.
Salt
Salt sharpens flavors and balances sweetness throughout the dessert.
Directions
Begin by preparing the crust. Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Chill briefly to set.
To make the red velvet layer, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda. In a separate bowl, mix sugar, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until smooth, then pour the batter evenly over the prepared crust. Bake briefly until just set.
For the cheesecake layer, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and mix until creamy. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream and vanilla extract. Pour the cheesecake mixture gently over the baked red velvet layer.
Bake the cheesecake until the center is just set with a slight wobble. Turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool gradually before refrigerating for several hours or overnight to fully set.
Equipment Needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves ten to twelve people. Preparation takes about 30 minutes, baking time is approximately 1 hour, and chilling time is at least 4 hours. Total time is around 5½ hours.
Storage and Reheating
Store red velvet cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. This dessert is served chilled and does not require reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Red velvet cheesecake can be customized in several ways. A cream cheese frosting layer or whipped cream topping adds extra indulgence. You can swirl some cheesecake batter into the red velvet layer for a marbled effect. For a deeper chocolate note, slightly increase the cocoa powder. Mini cheesecakes can also be made using the same components for individual servings. These variations allow you to adapt the dessert while keeping its signature look and flavor.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dessert is rich and indulgent, providing fats from cream cheese and butter, carbohydrates from sugar and flour, and protein from eggs. It is vegetarian-friendly and best enjoyed in moderation.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use room-temperature ingredients
This ensures smooth batters and prevents lumps.
Do not overbake
A slight wobble in the center ensures a creamy texture.
Chill thoroughly
Proper chilling improves flavor and clean slicing.
FAQs
Can I make red velvet cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, it is ideal to make a day in advance.
Why did my cheesecake crack?
Overbaking or rapid cooling can cause cracks.
Can I skip food coloring?
Yes, but the cake will not have the classic red color.
What cocoa powder works best?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is recommended.
Can I freeze red velvet cheesecake?
Yes, freeze well-wrapped for up to one month.
Should I use a water bath?
It is optional but helps prevent cracks.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, though the texture will be less rich.
How do I get clean slices?
Use a warm knife and wipe between cuts.
Is this dessert very sweet?
It is balanced with tangy cream cheese flavor.
What toppings work well?
Whipped cream or chocolate shavings pair beautifully.
Conclusion
Red velvet cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that combines classic flavor with elegant presentation. With its creamy cheesecake layer, tender red velvet base, and rich chocolate notes, it delivers indulgence in every slice. Perfect for celebrations or special gatherings, this recipe is a timeless favorite that never fails to impress.
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