The Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe

If you’re looking to impress at your next gathering with a show-stopping dessert, look no further than this luscious, layered masterpiece—The Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe. Combining the rich flavors of red velvet cake with a sumptuous cheesecake layer, this cake is both visually stunning and absolutely delicious. It’s perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something special. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This cake is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures. The moist, velvety red cake pairs beautifully with the creamy, tangy cheesecake filling, creating a delightful contrast that tantalizes the taste buds. The vibrant red color adds a festive touch, making it a favorite for holidays and celebrations. It’s no wonder this cake has earned its place as a go-to dessert for many!

What Goes In

To create The Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• 32 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 3/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups cake flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 4 tablespoons red food coloring
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature (for frosting)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature (for frosting)
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 2 tablespoons cream of coconut (optional)

Equipment & Tools

Before you start baking, gather the following equipment to ensure a smooth process:

• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer: For easy mixing of batters and frosting.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To measure ingredients accurately.
• Rubber spatula: For folding ingredients and scraping bowls.
• 9-inch round cake pans: For baking the cake layers.
• Cooling rack: To cool the cakes before frosting.
• Offset spatula: For spreading frosting smoothly.
• Plastic wrap: To cover the cheesecake and keep it fresh.

The Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe in Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, beat the 32 ounces of cream cheese with 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth. Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate the 3/4 cup sour cream and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Pour the cheesecake batter into the prepared pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Once done, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in for an additional hour. Remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 large eggs, mixing well. In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of buttermilk, 4 tablespoons of red food coloring, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon of distilled white vinegar. Gradually add the buttermilk mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the dry ingredients (2 1/2 cups cake flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder) until well combined.

Step 3: Bake the Red Velvet Layers

Divide the red velvet batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter and 8 ounces of cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add in the sifted powdered sugar (3 1/2 cups) and mix until smooth. Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and, if desired, 2 tablespoons of cream of coconut for a tropical twist. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Once the red velvet layers are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Carefully remove the cheesecake from the pan and place it on top of the first red velvet layer. Add more frosting on top of the cheesecake, then place the second red velvet layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Decorate as desired, perhaps with some chocolate shavings or fresh berries.

Customize for Your Needs

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways you can customize it to suit your preferences:

• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or coconut, to give your cake a unique twist.
• Filling Options: Add a layer of fruit preserves or chocolate ganache between the cake and cheesecake layers for added flavor.
• Color Adjustments: If you want a less intense red, reduce the amount of red food coloring used in the batter.
• Frosting Alternatives: Substitute the cream cheese frosting for a whipped cream frosting for a lighter taste.

Troubleshooting Tips

Even the best bakers can run into issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you out:

• Cracked Cheesecake: If your cheesecake cracks, it may have been overbaked. Ensure you check for doneness with a slight jiggle in the center.
• Dry Cake Layers: Avoid overmixing the cake batter, as this can lead to dry layers. Mix until just combined.
• Frosting Too Runny: If your frosting is too thin, gradually add more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached.
• Cake Sticking to Pans: Always grease and flour your pans well to prevent sticking.

Storage Pro Tips

To ensure your cake stays fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze individual slices of the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Thawing: To enjoy frozen cake, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight to thaw before serving.

Ask the Chef

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the red velvet layers and cheesecake a day or two in advance. Just assemble the cake the day you plan to serve it for the best texture and freshness.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

Can I use different sizes of cake pans?

Yes, you can use different sizes, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Smaller pans will bake faster, while larger ones may take longer.

Is it possible to make a gluten-free version of this cake?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a one-to-one substitute for best results.

Similar Recipes

If you love The Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe, you might also enjoy:

• Red Velvet Cupcakes
• Cheesecake Brownies
• Layered Chocolate Cake
• Vanilla Bean Cheesecake

Final Bite

The Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that everyone will love. From the creamy cheesecake layer to the moist red velvet cake, every bite is a delight. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your guests and become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures and enjoy every slice of this culinary masterpiece!