Description
A festive and creamy red velvet cheesecake that combines nostalgia with rich flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs or chocolate cookie crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- Fresh berries or chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Combine the graham cracker or chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter and sugar in a mixing bowl.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for about 8-10 minutes until set, then let it cool.
- Beat the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Add the granulated sugar and incorporate the eggs one by one, ensuring thorough mixing after each addition.
- Include the sour cream, buttermilk, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring, blending until creamy and fully combined.
- Pour the filling over the cooled crust. Bake in a water bath for 60-70 minutes until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.
- Turn off the oven and crack open the door to cool gradually, about 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Spread the whipped cream over the chilled cheesecake and garnish with fresh berries or chocolate shavings.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for the best texture. Use a water bath to prevent cracks during baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 36g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 132mg
Keywords: red velvet cheesecake, holiday dessert, Christmas cake, festive cheesecake