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Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake

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Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake is a festive dessert that combines the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the vibrant red hue and subtle cocoa flavor of classic red velvet cake. Perfect for holiday celebrations, this recipe offers a luscious, smooth, and indulgent treat that can be customized with various crusts, toppings, and presentations to delight family and friends.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1 ½ cups crushed graham crackers or Oreos
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

  • 24 oz (3 packages) full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, sifted
  • 2 teaspoons gel-based red food coloring

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Crush graham crackers or Oreos finely, then combine with melted butter until the mixture holds together. Press evenly into the bottom of a springform pan to form a firm, tasty base.
  2. Mix the Cheesecake Batter: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then blend in vanilla extract and sour cream or Greek yogurt until fully incorporated and creamy.
  3. Add Color and Flavor: Gently sift in cocoa powder and fold it into the batter. Stir in the gel red food coloring gradually until the batter attains a vibrant red color with unmistakable festive appeal.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the prepared crust and smooth the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 55-70 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center slightly jiggles when gently shaken.
  5. Chill and Decorate: Let the cheesecake cool gradually to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to fully set. Before serving, garnish with whipped cream, a dusting of cocoa powder, or festive toppings such as crushed peppermint or sprinkles.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
  • Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to prevent cracking and promote even cooking.
  • Mix ingredients just until combined to maintain a creamy texture and prevent air bubbles.
  • Gel-based food coloring provides vibrant red hue without thinning the batter.
  • Chill the cheesecake thoroughly before serving for best texture and flavor melding.
  • Store leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Cheesecake can be frozen by slicing and wrapping portions individually, then thawing overnight in the refrigerator.
  • For softer cheesecake, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas dessert, red velvet cheesecake, holiday cheesecake, festive dessert, cream cheese dessert, red velvet cake, holiday baking

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/christmas-red-velvet-cheesecake/