This stunning Red Velvet Cheesecake combines a moist, rich red velvet cake with a creamy, smooth cheesecake layer, all topped with fluffy whipped cream. It’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it an ideal dessert for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion!
📌 Ingredients
🔴 Red Velvet Cake Layer:
- Butter (for greasing the pan)
- Flour (for dusting the pan)
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box—typically eggs, oil, and water)
🟡 Cheesecake Layer:
- 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/3 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
⚪ Whipped Cream Topping:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 4 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Optional Garnishes:
- Red velvet cake crumbs (for decoration)
- White chocolate shavings
- Fresh raspberries or strawberries
📌 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Cake Layer
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan (or line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal).
- Prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the red velvet cake mix box.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 30 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully remove it and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Level the cake: Once fully cooled, use a cake leveler or a serrated knife to trim the top of the cake so it’s even and flat. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Grease a 9-inch springform pan (or line the bottom with parchment paper).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Beat for about 3 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition until just combined. (Do not overmix to avoid cracks.)
- Add the sour cream, flour, vanilla extract, and salt, then mix until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.
- Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is just slightly jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly open for 1 hour. This slow cooling process helps prevent cracks.
- Once cooled, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best results).
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Place the red velvet cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Carefully remove the cheesecake from the pan and place it on top of the red velvet cake. (Tip: Run a knife around the edge of the cheesecake before releasing the springform pan.)
- Ensure the layers are aligned and gently press them together.
Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, add heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).
- Spread or pipe the whipped cream evenly over the top of the cheesecake layer.
Step 5: Decorate & Serve
- Sprinkle red velvet cake crumbs on top for a classic look.
- Garnish with white chocolate shavings or fresh berries for extra flavor.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
💡 Expert Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Cheesecake
✔ Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures smooth mixing and prevents lumps in the cheesecake batter.
✔ Don’t overmix the cheesecake batter: Overmixing can introduce too much air, causing cracks when baking.
✔ Bake the cheesecake in a water bath: If you want a super creamy texture with zero cracks, wrap the bottom of the springform pan with foil and place it in a larger pan filled with hot water while baking.
✔ Chill the cheesecake fully: Cheesecake needs to be refrigerated for at least 4 hours (or overnight) for the best texture.
✔ For extra flavor: Add a splash of almond extract to the whipped cream for a unique twist!
❓ Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! Both the red velvet cake and cheesecake can be made a day in advance. Assemble and add the whipped cream before serving.
Q: Can I use homemade red velvet cake instead of a box mix?
A: Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade red velvet cake recipe, use it instead. Just bake it in a 9-inch pan.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes! Freeze the cheesecake layer and red velvet cake separately (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before assembling.
Q: What if my cheesecake cracks?
A: Don’t worry! You can cover it with whipped cream, or prevent cracking next time by baking in a water bath and cooling it slowly in the oven.
✨ Health Benefits & Nutritional Insights
- Protein & Calcium: Thanks to cream cheese, this cheesecake provides calcium for bone health and protein for muscle repair.
- Iron from Cocoa: Red velvet cake contains cocoa, which provides a small amount of iron, supporting circulation and oxygen transport.
- Moderate Sugar Content: Using powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar in the whipped topping makes it a bit lighter while still being sweet and creamy.
While this dessert is indulgent, enjoying it in moderation is a delightful way to treat yourself!
🎂 Variations to Try
🌟 Chocolate Ganache Topping: Drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped cream for an elegant touch.
🌟 Oreo Crust: Instead of red velvet cake, use a crushed Oreo crust for a twist.
🌟 Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake: Add a layer of strawberry compote for extra fruitiness.
🌟 Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix and substitute flour with a gluten-free blend in the cheesecake.
Final Thoughts
This Red Velvet Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because! With its soft red velvet base, creamy cheesecake center, and fluffy whipped topping, it’s guaranteed to impress.
Would you like any additional customizations, such as a chocolate drizzle or a different flavored whipped cream? Let me know! 😊🍰