Red Velvet Cheesecake

Layers of red velvet cake with that classic red velvet flavor and decadent red color, creamy cheesecake in the middle, and silky cream cheese frosting on top make this red velvet cheesecake a truly decadent treat.

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Table of Contents

Red Velvet Cheesecake Ingredients
Substitutions And Additions
How To Make This Red Velvet Cheesecake
How To Serve
Storage
Why We Love This Recipe
More Recipes You’ll Love
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This rich red velvet cheesecake is divine, there is no other way to describe it! Moist red velvet cake surrounds a layer of creamy cheesecake and is topped with cream cheese frosting for this tantalizing dessert.

Red Velvet Cheesecake Ingredients

Red Velvet Cheesecake raw ingredients that are labeled

This red velvet cheesecake is a delectable dessert that combines the best of both worlds.

The red velvet cake layer gives the dessert a subtle cocoa flavor, while the creamy cheesecake filling adds a tangy and velvety contrast.

You’ll need:

For The Cake:

1 cup of buttermilk
½ cup of vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 (15.25-ounce) box of red velvet cake mix

For The Cheesecake Filling:

16 ounces of cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup of granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup of sour cream
2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract

For The Cream Cheese Frosting:

1 cup of unsalted butter, room temperature
8 ounces of cream cheese, room temperature
5½ cups of powdered sugar, sifted
3 tablespoons of heavy cream
2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon of salt

Substitutions And Additions

CREAM CHEESE: For this recipe, I like using full-fat cream cheese.

You can use low-fat cream cheese but I do not recommend using a non-fat version as it compromises the taste and texture of the cream cheesecake and the frosting.

BUTTERMILK: You can make your own buttermilk using whole or 2% milk and lemon juice or distilled white vinegar.

For every one cup of milk, stir in one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

SOUR CREAM: If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute.

It offers a similar creamy texture and a slight tang that complements the cheesecake filling beautifully.

Just make a one-to-one swap, and you’ll hardly notice the difference in taste and texture.

RED VELVET CAKE MIX: If you want to make your red velvet cake layer from scratch or prefer a different brand, you can substitute a homemade red velvet cake batter for the boxed mix.

VANILLA EXTRACT: To elevate the flavor, consider using almond extract instead of vanilla.

Almond extract imparts a delightful nutty aroma that pairs wonderfully with the creamy and tangy elements of the cheesecake.

How To Make This Red Velvet Cheesecake

We guaranteed that while this cheesecake recipe needs ample time to make and chill, the results will most definitely be worth the effort!

PRO TIP:

This recipe needs plenty of cooking and cooling time before assembling and frosting it.

It is best to start this recipe early in the day so that you can assemble your layers before wrapping the cake in plastic wrap and refrigerating it to allow the cheesecake layer to set up completely before you frost the cake and serve it.

Alternatively, you can make the cheesecake layer the day before, refrigerate it overnight, then bake the red velvet layers the next day.

STEP ONE: Preheat oven to 350°F.

Lightly spray two (9-inch) cake pans with baker’s spray.

STEP TWO: To make the cake, whisk together, in a large bowl, the buttermilk, vegetable oil, and eggs until fully combined.

Add the dry ingredient packet from the box of red velvet cake mix to the wet ingredients.

Whisk vigorously by hand, or with an electric mixer on low, for two minutes or until no lumps remain.

PRO TIP:

I substituted the one cup of water in the instructions of the red velvet box mix for the buttermilk.

I think it makes the cake more tender, however, you can make the cake according to the box directions (with the water), and your cake will still be delicious.

buttermilk, oil, and eggs being whisked together in a bowl

STEP THREE: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.

A toothpick inserted into the center of your cake should come out clean.

Cool in the pans for ten minutes before turning them out of each cake pan onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Red Velvet Cheesecake process shot of cake batter divided into two cake pans and then baked

STEP FOUR: While your red velvet cake is baking you can prepare the cheesecake batter.

STEP FIVE: Lightly spray a 9-inch springform pan with baker’s spray and line the bottom of the springform pan with a round piece of parchment paper.

In an oven-safe 9×13 pan add enough water to fill the pan about one to two inches. Set both pans aside.

PRO TIP:

The water is a key step to ensuring that the outside of the cheesecake doesn’t cook faster than the inside.

STEP SIX: In a large mixing bowl, with a hand mixer on low, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugar for one minute.

Make sure that your cream cheese is smooth and without lumps.

Red Velvet Cheesecake process shot of ingredients blended together in a bowl

STEP SEVEN: Add the eggs and beat for another 30 seconds, on low, to completely incorporate the eggs.

Add the sour cream, all-purpose flour, and vanilla extract and beat just until combined. Do not overmix the cheesecake mixture.

You do not want to incorporate a lot of air into your batter.

eggs, flour, sour cream, and vanilla blended together in a bowl

STEP EIGHT: Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan.

Add the springform pan to the middle rack in the oven and place the water-filled pan on the bottom rack in the oven.

This will create a moist environment for the cheesecake to cook evenly.

Bake cheesecake for 45 minutes or until the center is just barely jiggly.

Red Velvet Cheesecake process shot of cheesecake batter poured into a pan then baked

STEP NINE: Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open about one inch. Leave the cheesecake in the oven for an additional one hour.

This allows the cheesecake to continue to cook and set as it cools.

After one hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool for an additional one hour on the counter.

Don’t forget to remove the water-filled dish as well.

STEP TEN: Once your cheesecake has cooled on the counter for one hour you can assemble your cake.

STEP ELEVEN: Place your first layer of red velvet cake onto a serving platter. Gently place the cheesecake layer, upside down, onto the bottom red velvet cake layer.

Peel the parchment paper off the bottom of the cheesecake before placing the second red velvet cake layer on top of the cheesecake.

Red Velvet Cheesecake process shot of cake being assembled

STEP TWELVE: Using a bread knife, gently level off the domed part of the top red velvet cake layer.

PRO TIP:

Save those scraps of red velvet cake because you can crumble them and use them as a garnish on the top of your red velvet cheesecake.

STEP THIRTEEN: Lightly cover the cake with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for eight hours up to overnight.

Red Velvet Cheesecake process shot of cake covered with plastic wrap

STEP FOURTEEN: Once your red velvet cheesecake has chilled, remove the plastic wrap and frost your cake with the cream cheese frosting.

STEP FIFTEEN: To make the cream cheese frosting you will place the unsalted butter and cream cheese into a large mixing bowl.

Using a handheld mixer, on medium speed, beat the butter and cream cheese for two minutes or until very smooth.

Red Velvet Cheesecake process shot of ingredients being blended together in a bowl

STEP SIXTEEN: Slowly add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until all the powdered sugar is incorporated.

Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt and continue to beat just until the frosting is light and fluffy.

It should be stiff enough to hold its shape when frosting the cake.

If the frosting is too loose then you can add additional powdered sugar, one-quarter cup at a time, to thicken it up.

If it is too stiff you can add an additional one tablespoon heavy cream.

powdered sugar, cream, vanilla, and salt

STEP SEVENTEEN: Reserve about a cup of the frosting and place into a small piping bag, fitted with a star tip, to add a decorative border on the top of your cake once you have frosted it.

You can also add the little red velvet crumbles from leveling off the cake layers on the inside border of the top of your cake.

the top of the cake being decorated with frosting and red velvet crumbles

How To Serve

Enjoy a slice of this decadent cake on its own or with a scoop of no-churn vanilla ice cream.

Of course, you need a warm or cold drink to wash it down. Our homemade hot chocolate or iced tea would be perfect choices.

Fresh berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries, would also make for a refreshing and vibrant accompaniment.

Pssst…Love cheesecake? Try our classic cheesecake recipe! Or how about our mint chocolate cheesecake?

MORE RED VELVET RECIPES

Ice Cream Recipes

Red Velvet Ice Cream

Cookie Recipes

The Best Red Velvet Cookie

Storage

Whether you plan to enjoy it over a few days or want to save a slice for later, here’s how to store your masterpiece.

MAKE AHEAD: If you’d like to prepare your red velvet cheesecake ahead of time, you can do so by following the recipe up to the point of baking.

Instead of placing it in the oven, tightly cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate the unbaked cheesecake for up to 24 hours.

When you’re ready to enjoy, simply preheat the oven and bake it as directed. This way, you can have a freshly baked cheesecake without the rush.

IN THE FRIDGE: You can store this red velvet cheesecake cake in a covered container, in the refrigerator, for up to three days.

IN THE FREEZER: Red velvet cheesecake can be frozen for up to a month well wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

Red Velvet Cheesecake with slices missing on a serving tray

Why We Love This Recipe

IRRESISTIBLE FLAVOR COMBINATION: This recipe combines the rich, cocoa-infused goodness of red velvet cake with the creamy, tangy decadence of cheesecake.

CREAMY AND VELVETY TEXTURE: The creamy cheesecake layer contrasts beautifully with the tender, moist red velvet cake, creating a luscious and velvety texture in every bite.

IMPRESSIVE PRESENTATION: With its vibrant red color and contrasting white cream cheese frosting, this red velvet cheesecake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.

This creamy red velvet cheesecake recipe is a heavenly and scrumptious combination of rich red velvet cake and cheesecake. You will not believe your eyes (or tastebuds) when you enjoy this treat.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why do I bake a cheesecake with a pan of water?

Using a pan of water will give you a moist, perfectly baked cheesecake. The hot water creates a moist cooking environment for the dairy and eggs to produce the creamy cheesecake texture.

Can I use a homemade red velvet cake recipe for this cheesecake?

If you have preferred homemade red velvet recipe, you can certainly use that instead of the boxed mix.

How do I freeze a whole cheesecake?

Make sure you cool the cheesecake completely before freezing. Wrap the cheesecake in layers of plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To thaw, place cheesecake in the fridge overnight.

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Red Velvet Cheesecake

5 from 2 votes

Prep Time 2 30

Cook Time 1 10

Total Time 11 40

Servings

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Ingredients

Cake

1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
15.25 ounces red velvet cake mix (I used Duncan Hines brand)

Cheesecake

16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
5½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
3 tablespoons heavy cream
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly spray 2 (9-inch) cake pans with baker’s spray.
To make the cake whisk together, in a large mixing bowl, the buttermilk, vegetable oil and eggs until fully combined. Add the dry ingredient packet from the box of red velvet cake mix. Whisk vigorously by hand, or with a handheld mixer on low, for 2 minutes or until no lumps remain.
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center of your cake should come out clean. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
While your red velvet cake is baking you can prepare the cheesecake batter.
Lightly spray a 9-inch springform pan with baker’s spray and line the bottom of the springform pan with a round piece of parchment paper. In an oven-safe 9×13 pan add enough water to fill the pan about 1 to 2 inches. Set both pans aside.
In a large mixing bowl, with a handheld mixer on low, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugar for 1 minute. Make sure that your cream cheese is smooth and without lumps.
Add the eggs and beat for another 30 seconds, on low, to completely incorporate the eggs. Add the sour cream, all-purpose flour, and vanilla extract and beat just until combined. Do not overmix the cheesecake mixture. You do not want to incorporate a lot of air into your batter.
Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared springform pan. Add the springform pan to the middle rack in the oven and place the water filled pan on the bottom rack in the oven. This will create a moist environment for the cheesecake to cook evenly. Bake for 45 minutes or until the center is just barely jiggly.
Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open about 1 inch. Leave the cheesecake in the oven for an additional 1 hour. This allows the cheesecake to continue to cook and set as it cools. After one hour, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool for an additional 1 hour on the counter. Don’t forget to remove the water-filled dish as well.
Once your cheesecake has cooled on the counter for 1 hour you can assemble your cake.
Place your first layer of red velvet cake onto a serving platter. Gently place the cheesecake layer, upside down, onto the bottom red velvet cake layer. Peel the parchment paper off the bottom of the cheesecake before placing the second red velvet cake layer on top of the cheesecake.
Using a bread knife, gently level off the domed part of the top red velvet cake layer. Save those scraps of red velvet cake because you can crumble them and use them as a garnish on the top of your red velvet cheesecake.
Lightly cover the cake with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours up to overnight.
Once your red velvet cheesecake has chilled, remove the plastic wrap and frost your cake with the cream cheese frosting.
To make the cream cheese frosting, you will place the unsalted butter and cream cheese into a large mixing bowl. Using a handheld mixer, on medium speed, beat the butter and cream cheese for 2 minutes or until very smooth.
Slowly add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until all the powdered sugar is incorporated. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract and salt and continue to beat just until the frosting is light and fluffy. It should be stiff enough to hold its shape when frosting the cake. If the frosting is too loose, then you can add additional powdered sugar, ¼ cup at a time, to thicken it up. If it is too stiff you can add an additional 1 tablespoon heavy cream.
Reserve about a cup of the frosting and place into a small piping bag, fitted with a star tip, to add a decorative border on the top of your cake once you have frosted it. You can also add the little red velvet crumbles (from leveling off the cake layers) on the inside border of the top of your cake.

Video

Notes

This recipe needs plenty of cooking and cooling time before assembling and frosting it. It is best to start this recipe early in the day so that you can assemble your layers before wrapping the cake in plastic wrap and refrigerating it to allow the cheesecake layer to set up completely before you frost the cake and serve it. Alternatively, you can make the cheesecake layer the day before, and refrigerate it overnight, then bake the red velvet layers the next day.
I substituted the 1 cup water, in the instructions of the red velvet box mix, for the buttermilk. I think it makes the cake more tender, however, you can make the cake according to the box directions (with the water) and your cake will still be delicious.
The water is a key step to ensuring that the outside of the cheesecake doesn’t cook faster than the inside.
Save those scraps of red velvet cake because you can crumble them and use them as a garnish on the top of your red velvet cheesecake.

Nutrition

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Red Velvet Cheesecake

Red Velvet Cheesecake Ingredients

Substitutions And Additions

How To Make This Red Velvet Cheesecake

How To Serve

Red Velvet Ice Cream

The Best Red Velvet Cookie

Storage

Why We Love This Recipe

More Recipes You’ll Love