Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake

When I want to bring both holiday magic and wow factor to my dessert table this Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake is always my showstopper With its vibrant color creamy texture and a festive sprinkle finish it brings pure Christmas joy to every mouthful

Last time I made this cake for our Christmas Eve dinner my brother declared it the best cheesecake hed ever tasted and now it is the most requested treat each December

Ingredients

• Oreo cookies: Chocolate flavor and crunch in every bite Choose fresh and crisp cookies for the best crust
• Butter: Creates a rich base Make sure to use quality unsalted butter
• Cream cheese: For ultimate creaminess Full fat is key for luxurious texture
• White sugar: Sweetens both the crust and filling Go for pure cane sugar for best results
• Heavy whipping cream: Adds a fluffy lift to the cheesecake Use fresh cream with high fat content for best whip
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor Pure vanilla has a richer taste than imitation
• Cocoa powder: Brings deep chocolate notes Use a good quality unsweetened cocoa for true flavor
• Red food coloring: Gives that iconic red velvet hue Gel coloring works best for bold color without watering down the batter
• Christmas sprinkles: Add festive personality Look for the brightest colors and fun shapes for max holiday charm
• Whipped cream: For a light and creamy garnish Whip it fresh if possible for best texture
• Mini Oreos: Topping crunch and fun Smaller size means every bite looks extra celebratory
• Extra Christmas sprinkles: To finish the cake and add sparkle Always add these at the end for their best shine

Instructions

Prepare the Pan and Oven:

Wrap a nine inch springform pan very tightly in heavy duty foil to keep water from getting in This is crucial for a perfect bake

Make the Oreo Crust:

Crush cookies until fine crumbs then mix with melted butter and sugar Press this mix firmly into the pan Bake at 350°F for ten minutes and set on a wire rack to cool completely This makes the crust set perfectly

Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

Beat softened cream cheese in a mixer until it is ultra smooth Gradually blend in sugar so there are no gritty bits Mix in vanilla extract cocoa powder and red food coloring Stir until the color is even and bold

Whip the Cream:

In a separate bowl whip heavy cream to soft peaks It should hold its shape but be soft Gently fold this into the cream cheese mixture and stop as soon as combined Add the Christmas sprinkles and fold again to keep things fluffy

Assemble the Cheesecake:

Pour filling over your cooled crust smooth the top and tap gently to even out bubbles

Bake in a Water Bath:

Place the foil wrapped pan into a larger roasting tray Pour hot water into the tray so it comes halfway up the sides Bake at 325°F for one hour to one hour fifteen minutes The edges should be set but the center will jiggle a bit

Cool the Cheesecake Slowly:

Turn off the oven and crack the door Leave the cheesecake inside for one hour This helps keep it creamy and prevents cracks

Chill and Set:

Take cheesecake out of the water bath and cool it on a rack for two to three hours Run a knife around the edge then cover lightly and refrigerate for at least six hours Overnight is best for sliceable perfection

Decorate and Serve:

Release the sides of the pan Top generously with whipped cream mini Oreos and extra sprinkles For the cleanest slices heat a sharp knife and wipe after each cut Store leftovers cold for freshness

There is something about cocoa powder meeting rich cream cheese that always makes me smile As a kid red velvet was my grandmas signature cake making this cheesecake feels like inviting her spirit into my kitchen for every holiday And the sprinkles mean you cannot help but feel festive

Storage Tips

Store the cheesecake covered in the fridge for up to five days Use parchment or plastic wrap to keep the surface from drying out For longer storage this cake can be frozen Slice first for easy serving later and wrap each piece tightly before placing in a freezer bag Thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Chocolate wafer cookies work if Oreos are not available For a vanilla version swap the cocoa powder for extra vanilla extract and skip the food coloring If you need a dairy free option use plant based cream cheese and coconut cream but expect a softer filling

Serving Suggestions

I love serving thick slices with extra whipped cream and crushed candy canes on the side It also pairs perfectly with a mug of hot cocoa or spiced coffee Finish each piece with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for pure decadence

Cultural and Holiday Context

Red velvet desserts have been a favorite in Southern bakeries for generations The bold color comes from both cocoa and coloring which makes it feel special for the holidays Turning it into a cheesecake gives you that holiday luxury with a creamy twist in every bite No wonder it vanishes fast at every Christmas party

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap the sprinkles for pinks and reds for Valentines Use gold and blue sprinkles for New Year celebrations Add sugared cranberries on top for extra sparkle

Nothing says Christmas at my house quite like the first slice of this red velvet beauty With its vibrant hue creamy bite and all those festive toppings it is the perfect blend of holiday comfort and celebration You will find yourself making it year after year just like we do

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I achieve the perfect creamy texture?

Beat cream cheese until smooth and fold in whipped cream gently to avoid overmixing, ensuring a silky filling.

→ Can I use a different cookie for the base?

Substitute Oreos with other chocolate sandwich cookies or even a graham cracker base if desired.

→ What kind of red food coloring works best?

Gel food coloring gives a vibrant red without thinning the batter, but liquid works in a pinch.

→ How can I prevent cracks in my cheesecake?

Bake in a water bath and avoid overbaking. Leave the cheesecake to cool gradually with the oven door ajar.

→ Are the Christmas sprinkles optional?

Sprinkles add festive flair but can be omitted or replaced with your preferred decorations.