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Classic Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe

Classic Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe


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4.7 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Red Velvet Cheesecake brings pure Southern charm straight to your dessert table with creamy layers that melt together beautifully. Rich chocolate notes and tangy cream cheese create a classic treat perfect for special celebrations or weekend indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Cake Components:

  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour (300g)
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar (300g)
  • 1.5 cups vegetable oil (360ml)
  • 1 cup buttermilk (240ml)
  • 2 large eggs

Cheesecake Components:

  • 2 blocks cream cheese, softened (16 oz / 454g)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ⅓ cup sour cream (80g)

Supporting Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons red food coloring
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar

Frosting Components:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (113g)
  • ¾ cup powdered sugar, sifted (360-480g)
  • 1 block cream cheese, softened (8 oz / 226g)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions

  1. Grab a 9-inch springform pan and line it with parchment paper. Coat lightly with cooking spray. Set your oven to precisely 325F (163C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 blocks (454g) softened cream cheese with ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar. Blend until completely smooth.
  3. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Incorporate ⅓ cup (80g) sour cream and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  4. Transfer the cheesecake mixture into prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even distribution.
  5. Bake at 325F (163C) for 45-50 minutes until the center is just set but slightly jiggly. Avoid over-baking to maintain a creamy texture.
  6. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to firm up.
  7. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans with cooking spray and a light dusting of flour.
  8. Whisk 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups (300g) sugar, 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt in a large bowl.
  9. In a separate bowl, blend 1 ½ cups (360ml) vegetable oil, 1 cup (240ml) room temperature buttermilk, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons red food coloring, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon white vinegar.
  10. Combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
  11. Bake at 350F (175C) for 30-35 minutes. Test with a toothpick for doneness. Cool completely on wire racks.
  12. Prepare frosting by beating 1 block (226g) cream cheese with ½ cup (113g) softened unsalted butter until creamy.
  13. Gradually add ¾ cup (360-480g) sifted powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until light and fluffy.
  14. Place one red velvet layer on your serving plate. Carefully position the chilled cheesecake on top.
  15. Add the second red velvet layer. Generously frost the entire cake, covering top and sides evenly.
  16. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow flavors to meld and frosting to set.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for the smoothest, most even cheesecake texture without lumps.
  • Create a water bath by placing the springform pan in a larger pan filled with hot water to prevent cracking and ensure even baking.
  • Wrap the outside of the springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during the water bath method.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend in the red velvet cake layers.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Cheesecakes
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 678 kcal
  • Sugar: 60 g
  • Sodium: 280 mg
  • Fat: 44 g
  • Saturated Fat: 20 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 56 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg