Introduction
Get ready to wow your friends and family with this stunning Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake with Oreo Crust! This delightful dessert combines the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, all nestled in a sweet and crunchy Oreo crust. Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of festive red decorations, this cheesecake is perfect for any holiday gathering. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients
- For the Oreo Crust:
- 24 Oreo cookies, crushed into fine crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Red Velvet Cheesecake:
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red sprinkles for decoration
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the crushed Oreo cookies and melted butter until fully combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create a delicious crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is well incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix it in, then introduce the eggs, one at a time, mixing just until each egg is incorporated before adding the next.
- Add in the sour cream, flour, cocoa powder, and red food coloring. Mix on low speed until the batter is smooth and velvety, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the luscious red velvet cheesecake batter over the cooled Oreo crust in the springform pan.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but still has a slight jiggle. Once done, turn off the oven, crack the door, and allow the cheesecake to cool inside for about 1 hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
- For the cream cheese frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture is smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and creamy.
- When the cheesecake is fully chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan, and spread the cream cheese frosting generously on top.
- Finish off with a sprinkle of red decorations for a festive flair before slicing and serving!
Notes or Tips
For a beautifully even bake, ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing the cheesecake inside. If you wish to enhance the flavor of the frosting, consider adding a hint of lemon juice or zest! This cheesecake can be made a day in advance, making it a perfect choice for busy holiday schedules. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves a few key techniques that ensure your cheesecake turns out perfectly.
- Mixing Cream Cheese: Always make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for the smoothest texture.
- Baking with a Water Bath: If you want to avoid cracks, consider placing your cheesecake in a water bath during baking for gentler heat.
- Chilling: Allowing the cheesecake to chill thoroughly is crucial as it not only enhances the flavors but also improves the texture, making it rich and creamy.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust? Absolutely! While Oreos add a wonderful flavor, feel free to use any chocolate cookie that you love.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for future enjoyment!
- Can I make this without food coloring? Yes! If you prefer a more natural approach, feel free to leave out the food coloring. Your cheesecake will still be delicious!
Conclusion
This Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake with Oreo Crust is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate! With its striking color, rich flavors, and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a beloved tradition on your holiday table. Gather your loved ones and indulge in this remarkable treat that’s bound to spread joy and cheer this festive season!