There's something magical about Christmas, especially when you bring a Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake to the table. I still remember the first time I made this for my family. My niece, Lily, took one bite and declared it the best dessert ever. This festive cheesecake combines the rich flavors of red velvet cake with the creamy goodness of cheesecake, making it a perfect treat for holiday gatherings.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s a showstopper dessert that impresses everyone.
- The combination of flavors is simply delightful.
- It’s a fun twist on traditional holiday desserts.
Pure Comfort
Every slice of this cheesecake feels like a warm hug. The vibrant red color and creamy texture make it a joy to eat, and it pairs perfectly with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. Plus, it’s a great way to celebrate the season with family and friends.
What You Need
- 1 1/2 cups 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs – You can use crushed Oreos for a chocolate twist.
- 1/4 cup 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Coconut oil can be a substitute for dairy-free options.
- 2 cups 2 cups cream cheese, softened – Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 cup 1 cup granulated sugar – You can use a sugar substitute for a lighter option.
- 3 large 3 large eggs – Eggs should be at room temperature for best results.
- 1 cup 1 cup sour cream – Greek yogurt works well as a healthier alternative.
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Use pure vanilla for a richer flavor.
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons red food coloring – Adjust the amount for a deeper red color.
- 1 tablespoon 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – This helps stabilize the cheesecake.
Time to Cook
Prep: 30 minutes | Cook: 1 hour | Total: 1 hour 30 minutes | Difficulty: Medium | Make-Ahead: Yes, it can be made a day in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. This ensures that your cheesecake bakes evenly. The warm air will help create a lovely texture.
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. It should resemble wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan for a sturdy crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when there are no lumps left.
- Add the sugar to the cream cheese and mix until well blended. The mixture should be light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a smooth cheesecake.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to create a rich and creamy filling. The batter should be silky and well combined.
- Stir in the sour cream, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until fully blended. The vibrant color will make your cheesecake festive. Make sure there are no streaks left.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and gently fold it in. This helps to stabilize the cheesecake. Be careful not to overmix; you want it smooth but not airy.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust in the springform pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even finish. It will rise slightly while baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes. The edges should be set but the center will still be slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let it cool inside for an hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Make It Perfect
- For a festive touch, top your cheesecake with whipped cream and red sprinkles.
- Letting the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven helps prevent cracks.
- Use a sharp knife to slice for clean edges.
Mix It Up
- Try adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top for a rich twist.
- Swirl in some raspberry puree for a fruity flavor.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a side of fresh berries for a pop of color.
- Pair with a warm cup of spiced cider for a cozy treat.
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FAQs
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Why did my cheesecake crack?
This can happen if it bakes too quickly or cools too fast. A water bath can help prevent this.
Conclusion
This Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake is a delightful addition to your holiday dessert table. With its rich flavors and festive appearance, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making memories with every slice!
Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake for Festive Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F for even baking.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined resembling wet sand, then press firmly into bottom of 9-inch springform pan.
- Beat cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add sugar to cream cheese and mix until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until silky and combined.
- Stir in sour cream, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until fully blended with no streaks.
- Sprinkle flour over mixture and gently fold in to stabilize cheesecake without overmixing.
- Pour batter over crust in pan and smooth top with spatula for even finish.
- Bake for about 60 minutes until edges are set but center is slightly jiggly, then turn off oven and cool inside for an hour.
- Chill cheesecake in refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving.