As the holiday season approaches, nothing helps capture the spirit more than a stunning dessert on the table. I’ve always loved the rich, velvety delight that is red velvet cheesecake, and this Christmas version takes it to a whole new level. With its striking red color and creamy texture, it’s the ultimate festive treat that’s sure to impress your guests. This recipe combines the classic flavors of red velvet cake with a luscious cheesecake layer, creating a dessert that is both beautiful and delicious. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or as a sweet indulgence just for you!

Why you’ll love this dish

This Christmas red velvet cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. Picture the moment you slice into this two-layered beauty. The vibrant red cake contrasts beautifully with the white cream cheese frosting, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. This dish is kid-approved, shares love during the holidays, and brings a nostalgic feel to any gathering. It’s not just about taste; it’s about creating memories around the table.

“I made this for Christmas dinner, and it was a showstopper! Everyone kept asking for seconds—it was the highlight of our meal!”

Preparing Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe

Creating this cheesecake is a delightful journey! You’ll start by baking the cheesecake layer, which you’ll chill for a perfect creamy texture. Next, you’ll whip up the red velvet cake layers. Finally, all components come together seamlessly, culminating in a gorgeous layered cake that looks as amazing as it tastes.

What you’ll need

To craft this festive masterpiece, you’ll gather the following ingredients:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1–2 tbsp red food coloring (adjust for desired color)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp white vinegar
16 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for the cheesecake filling)
1/2 cup sour cream
2 large eggs (for the cheesecake filling)
1 tsp vanilla extract (for the cheesecake filling)
8 oz cream cheese (for frosting)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)

Feel free to experiment! Greek yogurt can be swapped for sour cream if you’d like a healthier twist, and you can reduce the sugar for a less sweet cake.

Directions to follow

Start by baking the cheesecake layer: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Bake the cheesecake for 40–45 minutes or until set in the center. Allow it to cool completely before chilling in the refrigerator.
While the cheesecake cools, prepare the red velvet cake layers. Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the layers for 25–30 minutes. Allow them to cool completely on wire racks.
For the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and fluffy—this is where the magic happens!
Assemble your cake by layering the red velvet cakes, the chilled cheesecake layer, and generous amounts of frosting in between. Finish it all off by covering the entire cake with frosting.
Once assembled, chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best ways to enjoy it

To serve this eye-catching cake, consider garnishing with fresh berries or a sprinkle of holiday-themed sprinkles. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of cocoa or a festive cocktail. Don’t forget to slice it into generous pieces—everyone will want to savor this delightful dessert!

How to store & freeze

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you’d like to enjoy it later, you can freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving again!

Helpful cooking tips

For a vibrant red color, using gel food coloring is more effective than liquid food coloring—this ensures a bold hue without affecting the batter’s consistency.
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature; this helps create a smooth batter and a creamy cheesecake layer.
If your cheesecake cracks, don’t worry! It will be covered in frosting and still taste delicious.

Creative twists

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You could add crushed peppermint candies for a seasonal touch, or incorporate orange zest into the cake batter for a fun citrus twist. You could even make a chocolate ganache to drizzle on top for an extra layer of richness.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare?
The total time for this recipe is about 3 hours, including baking and cooling time.

Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesecake layer a day ahead and refrigerate it. The assembled cake can be made a few days before serving for optimal flavor.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

Enjoy making your Christmas red velvet cheesecake, and happy baking!

Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake

A stunning dessert that combines the rich flavors of red velvet cake with a creamy cheesecake layer, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1

Cook Time 1 15

Total Time 3

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Cake

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1–2 tablespoons red food coloring Adjust for desired color
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cheesecake Filling

16 oz cream cheese Softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting

8 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup unsalted butter Room temperature
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Bake the cheesecake for 40–45 minutes or until set in the center.
Allow it to cool completely before chilling in the refrigerator.

Prepare the Red Velvet Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the red velvet cake layers for 25–30 minutes.
Allow them to cool completely on wire racks.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Layer the red velvet cakes, the chilled cheesecake layer, and generous amounts of frosting in between.
Cover the entire cake with frosting.
Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.