Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of this Red Velvet Center Cheesecake. With a sweet surprise waiting inside, this dessert is a showstopper for any occasion. The moist and velvety red velvet cake layer is complemented by a smooth and tangy cheesecake layer, making every bite a heavenly delight. Don't forget to add the final touch of decadence with a cream cheese frosting. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- For the Red Velvet Cake Layer:
- - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- - 1 teaspoon baking powder
- - 1/2 teaspoon salt
- - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- - 2 large eggs
- - 1 cup buttermilk
- - 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- - 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- For the Cheesecake Layer:
- - 24 ounces cream cheese, softened
- - 1 cup granulated sugar
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- - 2 large eggs
- - For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- - 2 cups powdered sugar
- - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and set it aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt for the red velvet cake layer.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. In another small bowl, combine the baking soda with a little bit of water to dissolve. Add the buttermilk mixture and baking soda mixture to the large mixing bowl with the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the red velvet cake batter into the prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly. Set aside.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract for the cheesecake layer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the red velvet cake batter in the springform pan, distributing it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and slightly golden.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then, carefully remove the springform sides and allow the cheesecake to cool completely.
- While the cheesecake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.
- Once the cheesecake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting on top using a spatula.
- Place the frosted cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to set.
- Slice and serve the Red Velvet Center Cheesecake, revealing the surprise inside with every bite.
- Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Red Velvet cake was first popularized in the United States during the 1920s.
The vibrant red color of the cake traditionally comes from a reaction between the acidic ingredients like vinegar and buttermilk with the cocoa powder.
Cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with red velvet cake, adding a tangy and creamy element to balance the sweetness.