Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Red Velvet White Chocolate Cheesecake. This stunning, bakery-style treat features rich red velvet cake layers sandwiched around a creamy, white chocolate cheesecake center. Topped with a luscious glaze and elegant chocolate curls, it’s the perfect centerpiece for holidays, parties, or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Combines two iconic desserts in one: red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake
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Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, and holiday celebrations
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Visually stunning with vibrant color contrast and decorative toppings
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High-yield dessert that’s both impressive and indulgent
Ingredients Breakdown
Red Velvet Cake Layers:
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Granulated Sugar (1 cup / 200g): Sweetens and provides structure.
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Vegetable Oil (½ cup / 120ml): Keeps the cake moist and tender.
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Egg (1 large): Adds richness and structure.
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Red Food Coloring (1 tbsp): Gives the iconic red velvet hue.
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Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds flavor depth.
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Buttermilk (½ cup / 120ml): Reacts with baking soda for a tender crumb.
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All-Purpose Flour (1 cup / 125g): Base for the cake structure.
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Baking Soda (½ tsp): Helps the cake rise.
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Cocoa Powder (½ tsp): Adds subtle chocolate flavor.
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Salt (½ tsp): Enhances flavor balance.
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White Vinegar (½ tsp): Activates baking soda and improves texture.
White Chocolate Cheesecake Filling:
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Cream Cheese (16 oz / 450g): Forms the creamy, tangy cheesecake base.
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Granulated Sugar (½ cup / 100g): Sweetens the cheesecake layer.
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Eggs (2 large): Bind and provide richness.
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Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances the flavor.
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White Chocolate (8 oz / 225g): Adds creamy sweetness and smooth texture.
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Heavy Cream (½ cup / 120ml): Makes the cheesecake velvety and rich.
Red Glaze (Optional):
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Raspberry or Cherry Preserves (½ cup / 120ml): Adds fruity brightness and shine.
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Water (1 tbsp): Thins the preserves into a pourable glaze.
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Cornstarch (1 tsp, optional): Thickens the glaze if desired.
Chocolate Garnish:
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Dark Chocolate Curls or Shavings: Provide contrast, decoration, and a touch of decadence.
Tips and Tricks
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Room temperature ingredients make for a smoother batter and even baking.
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Freeze the cheesecake layer for easier assembly.
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Use gel food coloring for a deeper red hue.
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For a more dramatic look, apply a thin crumb coat and frost the sides with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting.
Variations and Customizations
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Chocolate Cheesecake Filling: Replace white chocolate with dark or milk chocolate for a richer flavor.
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Berry Twist: Add a layer of raspberry preserves between the cake and cheesecake for a fruity surprise.
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Nut Crust Base: Replace graham cracker base with crushed pecans for a Southern-inspired twist.
Pairing Suggestions
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Serve with a glass of cold milk, a latte, or a flavored iced coffee.
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Pairs beautifully with a raspberry compote or fresh strawberries for extra tartness.
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
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For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Popular Questions
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! The cheesecake layer can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored chilled.
Can I use boxed red velvet cake mix?
Absolutely. Save time by using a high-quality red velvet mix for the cake layers.
Do I need a springform pan?
A springform pan is ideal for easy removal of the cheesecake layer, but you can line a regular cake pan with parchment as an alternative.