Celebrate the holidays with this Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake, a show-stopping dessert that combines moist red velvet cake, creamy cheesecake, and rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for Christmas parties, family gatherings, or festive dinners, this dessert layers vibrant red cake with a luscious cheesecake center and finishes with smooth, velvety frosting. The combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors makes every bite a holiday delight. This recipe is designed for home bakers seeking an impressive, yet approachable, dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Eye-catching dessert with festive red layers and creamy cheesecake filling
• Perfect for holiday parties and family gatherings
• Combines classic red velvet cake with creamy cheesecake for a decadent treat
• Beginner-friendly, with step-by-step instructions for success
• Can be made ahead of time for stress-free entertaining
• Great for holiday dessert tables or as a gift-worthy treat

Ingredient Breakdown

Red Velvet Cake Layers – Soft, moist, and vividly red, made with cocoa, buttermilk, and a hint of vinegar to enhance color and flavor.
All-Purpose Flour & Cocoa Powder – Create structure and subtle chocolate flavor without overpowering the cheesecake.
Granulated Sugar & Vegetable Oil – Add sweetness and keep the cake tender and moist.
Buttermilk & Eggs – Provide richness, moisture, and a tender crumb.
Red Food Coloring – Gives the cake its signature festive red hue.
Vanilla Extract & White Vinegar – Enhance flavor and stabilize the cake for perfect layers.
Cheesecake Layer – Made from cream cheese, sugar, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla, offering a smooth, creamy, and tangy layer that balances the sweet cake.
Cream Cheese Frosting – Combines cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla for a luscious topping that complements both the cake and cheesecake layers.

Pro Tips

Bake the cheesecake layer at a lower temperature (325°F) to prevent cracks and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
Cool cake layers completely before assembling to prevent frosting from melting.
Use room-temperature cream cheese and butter for smooth frosting.
Wrap the cake in plastic or store in an airtight container while chilling to preserve freshness.
For cleaner layers, use a serrated knife to level the cake before layering.

Ingredient Swaps or Variations

Low-Fat Option – Use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter dessert.
Egg-Free Cheesecake – Replace eggs with vegan egg substitutes for a plant-based variation.
Decorative Variations – Top with white chocolate shavings, fresh cranberries, or festive sprinkles for a holiday touch.
Flavor Twists – Add a teaspoon of almond or peppermint extract to the frosting for seasonal flavor.
Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make this dessert safe for gluten-sensitive guests.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake chilled, sliced into wedges, and plated with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries. It pairs beautifully with hot cocoa, coffee, or a festive holiday punch. Perfect for dessert tables at Christmas parties or as a centerpiece dessert for holiday dinners.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips

Bake and assemble the cake a day ahead to allow flavors to meld and layers to set perfectly. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. For longer storage, the cheesecake layer can be baked and frozen separately for up to 2 months, then thawed in the fridge before assembly.

Cultural or Historical Notes

Red velvet cake has long been a festive favorite, especially in American holiday traditions. Combining it with cheesecake adds a luxurious twist, turning a classic dessert into a centerpiece-worthy creation for Christmas celebrations. Its vibrant color and decadent layers make it a memorable holiday treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, bake and assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate for best results.
How long does it keep? Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, covered to maintain freshness.
Can I use store-bought red velvet cake layers? Yes, for convenience, just bake the cheesecake layer separately and assemble.
Can this dessert be frozen? Yes, freeze the unassembled cheesecake layer for up to 2 months; thaw before layering with cake and frosting.
Can I decorate it differently? Absolutely—add fresh berries, chocolate curls, or edible glitter for a festive look.