If you’re searching for the ultimate showstopper dessert this holiday season, look no further than the Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake. This indulgent fusion of classic red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake layers will bring festive joy right to your dessert table. Its vibrant red color paired with the smooth, rich texture and subtle hints of cocoa and vanilla make it a must-try treat that everyone will rave about. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or a lively holiday party, these 5 irresistible Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake recipes will inspire you to create unforgettable memories with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive flavors: The perfect blend of cocoa, cream cheese, and holiday spices creates a seasonal flavor sensation.
Rich yet light texture: Creamy cheesecake layered on light red velvet cake results in a balanced dessert that melts in your mouth.
Eye-catching presentation: The vibrant red color and creamy swirls make it an attractive centerpiece on any holiday table.
Versatile variations: Easy to customize with different toppings or flavor twists to fit any dietary preference.
Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepared in advance for stress-free entertaining during the busy holiday season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every great Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake starts with simple, quality ingredients. Each element plays a critical role—from the smooth cream cheese for richness to the cocoa powder for that signature red velvet hint, all combining to produce a delectable texture and flavor.

Cream cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a creamy, smooth texture essential to cheesecake.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake base to balance the tanginess of the cream cheese.
All-purpose flour: Adds structure and stability to the cheesecake layers.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides the subtle chocolate flavor classic to red velvet.
Red food coloring: Gives the cheesecake its festive, vibrant red hue.
Vanilla extract: Enhances every flavor with a warm, inviting aroma.
Eggs: Bind ingredients together and help the cake set perfectly.
Sour cream or heavy cream: Adds moisture and smoothness to the cheesecake layer.
Butter: Used in the crust for a rich, crumbly base.
Graham cracker crumbs or crushed red velvet cake: Forms the tasty bottom crust layer.

Variations for Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake

Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on your Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake. These variations make the recipe adaptable for different tastes, diets, and special occasions, making it your very own holiday masterpiece.

Chocolate swirl: Add melted dark chocolate swirled into the cheesecake batter for a luscious marbled effect.
Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based cream cheese, flax eggs, and dairy-free butter for a vegan-friendly version.
Nutty crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the crust or sprinkled on top for added texture.
Spiced touch: Mix cinnamon and nutmeg into the batter to infuse warm holiday spices.
Berry topping: Fresh raspberries or cranberry sauce make a bright, tart complement to the rich cheesecake.

5 Irresistible Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipes

How to Make Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by combining graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and a bit of sugar to form a buttery crust. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your springform pan and chill it to set while prepping the filling.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Beat cream cheese until smooth, then gradually add sugar, cocoa powder, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by sour cream or heavy cream to ensure the batter is silky and cohesive.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Pour half of the cream cheese batter into the crust, then gently layer in a red velvet cake batter or crushed red velvet crumbs. Top with the remaining cheesecake batter, swirling lightly if desired to create a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cheesecake at a moderate temperature with a water bath if possible to prevent cracks and promote even cooking. Allow it to bake slowly until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Once baked, cool the cheesecake at room temperature before refrigerating it overnight. This resting period allows flavors to meld and the texture to fully develop.

Pro Tips for Making Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake

Room temperature ingredients: Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the batter.
Water bath baking: Use a water bath during baking to maintain moisture and prevent cracking.
Don’t overmix: Mix ingredients just enough to combine, preventing too much air that causes cracks.
Use quality red food coloring: Gel-based coloring yields vibrant hues without affecting batter consistency.
Let it rest: Chill the cheesecake overnight to set perfectly for clean slicing and enhanced flavor.

How to Serve Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake

Garnishes

Top your Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake with fresh whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or festive sprinkles to add texture, flavor, and holiday flair.

Side Dishes

Pair with seasonal fruit compotes like cranberry or raspberry sauce, or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a cool contrast to the rich dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual mini cheesecakes in mason jars or clear dessert cups layered with cake crumbs and cream cheese for a charming and portable holiday treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cheesecake covered tightly in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for 4 to 5 days without losing moisture or flavor.

Freezing

Wrap your cheesecake securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to retain texture.

Reheating

Serve Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes; avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

FAQs

Can I make Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake without food coloring?

Yes, though the signature red hue is iconic, you can omit the food coloring for a more natural look, resulting in a slightly browner cheesecake with the same delicious flavor.

How long does Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake take to bake?

Baking typically takes around 55 to 70 minutes at 325°F (163°C), but times can vary depending on your oven. Always check for a slight jiggle in the center as a doneness indicator.

Is it okay to use store-bought red velvet cake for layering?

Absolutely! Using pre-made red velvet cake layers or crumbs can save time and still create a delightful Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping regular flour and graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives, you can easily enjoy a gluten-free Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake.

What is the best way to slice Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts to achieve smooth, clean slices without crumbling.

Final Thoughts

Bringing Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake to your holiday celebrations is a guaranteed way to brighten up the dessert spread and impress your loved ones. With its festive colors, luscious texture, and versatile variations, it’s an irresistible treat that combines the best of two classic desserts. Give one of these scrumptious recipes a try and create a new holiday tradition that everyone will adore.

Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake

Print Recipe

Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake is a festive and indulgent dessert combining the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the vibrant, subtly chocolatey flavor of classic red velvet cake. Its striking red hue, layered presentation, and holiday-inspired spices make it the perfect showstopper for any holiday occasion, whether a cozy family dinner or a lively party. This recipe is versatile, make-ahead friendly, and customizable, ensuring a memorable and delightful treat for everyone.

Total Time: 14 hours 40 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed red velvet cake
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Cheesecake Filling

24 oz (3 packages) full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 to 3 teaspoons red food coloring (gel recommended)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 large eggs, room temperature
2/3 cup sour cream or heavy cream

Optional Variations & Toppings

1/4 cup melted dark chocolate (for chocolate swirl)
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for nutty crunch)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (for spiced touch)
Fresh raspberries or cranberry sauce (for berry topping)
Plant-based cream cheese, flax eggs, and dairy-free butter (for vegan adaptation)

Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs (or crushed red velvet cake) with melted butter and sugar. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased springform pan. Chill in the refrigerator to set while preparing the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add sugar, then mix in flour, cocoa powder, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition. Fold in sour cream or heavy cream to ensure a silky, cohesive batter.
Assemble the Layers: Pour half of the cheesecake batter over the chilled crust. Gently layer red velvet cake batter or crushed red velvet crumbs over the cheesecake layer. Top with the remaining cheesecake batter, swirling lightly with a knife if desired to create a marbled effect.
Bake to Perfection: Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish and add hot water to create a water bath. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 55 to 70 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. This method helps prevent cracks and ensures even cooking.
Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld and the texture fully develop.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
Bake the cheesecake in a water bath to maintain moisture and prevent cracking.
Mix ingredients just enough to combine; overmixing can cause cracks.
Use gel-based red food coloring for vibrant color without altering batter consistency.
Chilling the cheesecake overnight results in cleaner slices and enhanced flavor.
To slice the cheesecake cleanly, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.

Author: Lina
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free (with substitutions)

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cheesecake)
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 32 g
Sodium: 220 mg
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 17 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 7 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: Christmas dessert, red velvet cheesecake, holiday dessert, festive cheesecake, layered cheesecake, creamy dessert, red velvet cake, holiday baking