How to Make the Best Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe

By: Sarah

May 24, 2025

Red velvet cheesecake topped with raspberries, strawberries, and a red glaze.

Looking for a show-stopping dessert to impress your loved ones this Valentine’s Day? Look no further! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you my ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This decadent dessert combines the rich flavors of red velvet with the creamy texture of cheesecake, all wrapped up in a stunning presentation that’s perfect for any special occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is designed to be easy to follow and fun to make. So, let’s dive in and get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • A perfect blend of red velvet and cheesecake, offering a unique twist on classic desserts.
  • Easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
  • Stunning presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.
  • Can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy schedules.
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings, from whipped cream to fresh berries.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this incredible Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe:

  • 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon white distilled vinegar
  • 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream
  • Chocolate shavings
  • Fresh berries
  • Mini red velvet crumbs for topping

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s break this recipe down into simple, easy-to-follow steps:

1. Prepare the Red Velvet Layer

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. In another bowl, beat the oil and sugar until well combined. Add the egg and mix until smooth, then mix in the buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

2. Mix the Cheesecake Layer

Beat the softened cream cheese until fluffy. Add the sugar and beat until smooth. Mix in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla. Pour the cheesecake batter gently over the red velvet batter and smooth the top.

3. Bake and Cool

Place the pan on a baking tray and bake for 55–65 minutes, until the center is just set. Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes. Then, cool it completely on a rack and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your Red Velvet Cheesecake turns out perfectly every time:

  • Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
  • Don’t overmix the batter to ensure a smooth texture.
  • Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan to prevent cracking.
  • For a clean slice, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between cuts.

How to Serve

The fun part – serving! Here’s how I like to present my Red Velvet Cheesecake:

  • Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
  • Sprinkle with chocolate shavings for a luxurious touch.
  • Garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Add mini red velvet crumbs for an extra decorative flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. The cheesecake can be baked and refrigerated for up to 3 days before serving. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

And there you have it – the ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe that’s sure to be the star of your next gathering. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or just because, this dessert is sure to impress. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media using the hashtag #RedVelvetCheesecakeRecipe!

Looking for more delicious cheesecake recipes? Check out my How to Make the Best New York Cheesecake Recipe, How to Make the Best Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake Recipe, and How to Make the Best Berry Swirl Cheesecake for more inspiration!

Red velvet cheesecake topped with raspberries, strawberries, and a red glaze.

Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe – The Ultimate Valentine Dessert

A rich and creamy cheesecake with a red velvet twist, perfect for Valentine's Day or any special occasion.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 egg egg
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon white distilled vinegar
  • 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs eggs
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream for serving
  • Chocolate shavings for serving
  • Fresh berries for serving
  • Mini red velvet crumbs for topping

Instructions
 

  • 1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan. Whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. In another bowl, beat oil and sugar. Add egg, then mix in buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar. Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth. Pour into the pan and smooth the top.
  • 2. Beat softened cream cheese until fluffy. Add sugar and beat until smooth. Mix in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla. Pour gently over red velvet batter and smooth the top.
  • 3. Bake for 55–65 minutes, until the center is just set. Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes. Then cool completely on a rack and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Notes

Let the cheesecake cool completely to avoid cracks and ensure a clean slice.
Keyword red velvet
Sarah smiling warmly at the camera.

Sarah — cake lover, flavor explorer, and the heart behind CakesByVibes!

Driven by a passion for joyful baking, I created this blog to show that making beautiful, delicious cakes can be fun, easy, and full of creativity. Here, you’ll find vibrant recipes, step-by-step tips, and all the sweet inspiration you need — whether you're just starting out or already a baking pro.

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