Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe: A Decadent Dessert for Any Occasion

Photo byAngie Bright

If you're looking to impress with a show-stopping dessert, look no further than this Red Velvet Cheesecake. This recipe combines two beloved classics—rich, moist red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake—to create a dessert that's perfect for celebrations, special occasions, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With layers of velvety cake, a luscious cheesecake center, and a generous coat of cream cheese frosting, this cake is as delicious as it is stunning.

The Ultimate Combination of Flavors

Red velvet cake is known for its moist, tender crumb and subtle cocoa flavor, while cheesecake brings a creamy, tangy richness that perfectly complements the cake. Together, they create a layered masterpiece that’s sure to be the star of any dessert table. The cream cheese frosting adds a smooth, sweet finish, tying everything together beautifully. It’s a dessert that will leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to try a slice.

Recipe: Red Velvet Cheesecake

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
• • Butter, for greasing cake pans
  • All-purpose flour, for dusting cake pans
  • 1 box red velvet cake mix, plus ingredients called for on the box
• For the Cheesecake Layer:
• • 2 (8-oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• • 2 (8-oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
  • 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Prepare the Cake Layers:
   Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Butter and flour two 9-inch cake pans to ensure easy release. Prepare the red velvet cake batter according to the instructions on the box, then divide it evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for a few minutes, then invert them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cakes, saving the scraps for garnish.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:
   Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and well combined, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined. Mix in the sour cream, flour, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 1 hour, until the center is slightly jiggly. Let the cheesecake cool, then transfer it to the freezer to firm up before assembling the cake.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and creamy. This frosting should be thick enough to coat the cake but spreadable for easy assembly.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   Place one layer of red velvet cake onto a cake platter. Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top, pressing down gently to ensure it adheres. Top with the second red velvet cake layer, making sure everything is aligned for a smooth finish.
5. Frost the Cake:
   Using an offset spatula, frost the entire cake with the cream cheese frosting, spreading it evenly over the top and sides. For an extra decorative touch, crumble the reserved red velvet cake scraps and sprinkle them over the top of the frosted cake.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Chill the assembled cake for about 30 minutes before slicing, which helps keep the layers firm and makes for a cleaner cut. Serve this Red Velvet Cheesecake at room temperature for the best texture and enjoy the blend of creamy cheesecake and rich red velvet cake.

A Show-Stopping Dessert for Any Celebration

This Red Velvet Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for those who love a bit of indulgence. With its beautiful layers and rich flavors, it's perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply treating yourself. The combination of red velvet cake and cheesecake creates a balance of sweet and tangy that will leave your taste buds craving more. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite for any special occasion.

For more dessert recipes and inspiration, be sure to visit Moose Pattie’s Facebook page.