Red Velvet Cheesecake Layer Cake Recipe

If you are searching for a show-stopping dessert that perfectly blends rich flavors and stunning visuals, the Red Velvet Cheesecake Layer Cake is your new best friend. This irresistible cake combines the tender crumb of classic red velvet with a luscious, creamy cheesecake layer, all frosted in silky cream cheese frosting and topped with a vibrant red berry glaze. It balances moistness and tang beautifully, making it an unforgettable centerpiece for celebrations or a special treat to brighten any day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, from providing the cake’s signature velvety texture and color to enriching the creamy cheesecake layer with smoothness and a touch of tartness. Together, they transform simple pantry staples into an extraordinary dessert experience.

• Chocolate cookie crumbs: For a crunchy, chocolatey crust base that adds depth and a subtle crunch to the cake.
• Unsalted butter: Melted to bind cookie crumbs and also to provide richness in the cream cheese frosting.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake and cheesecake layers, balanced between granulated and powdered for texture and frosting sweetness.
• Cocoa powder: Adds a delicate chocolate flavor that complements the red velvet perfectly.
• Baking soda and baking powder: Leavens the cake, ensuring it rises beautifully and feels light.
• Salt: Enhances all other flavors for a full, rounded taste.
• Buttermilk: Tenderizes the crumb and adds subtle tang, perfect for red velvet’s characteristic flavor.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake incredibly moist without weighing it down.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to structure and richness.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warm, sweet aromatics that heighten the cake’s overall flavor.
• White vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise and intensify the red velvet’s signature tang.
• Red gel food coloring: Creates the stunning, vivid red appearance.
• Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer and frosting, lending creaminess and tang.
• Sour cream or heavy cream: Keeps the cheesecake luscious and smooth with a lovely texture.
• Strawberry or raspberry jam: For the glossy red berry glaze that adds sweetness and freshness on top.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the glaze with a hint of acidity.
• Dark chocolate chips and red velvet crumbs: Decorative accents that add texture and visual interest.

How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Layer Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crust (Optional)

Start by mixing chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until the mixture feels like damp sand. This crumbly base provides a contrasting texture to the creamy cheesecake and velvety cake layers. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to set it firmly. Let it cool completely before adding the cheesecake batter.

Step 2: Bake the Red Velvet Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round pans by greasing and lining them. Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in one bowl while combining sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, buttermilk, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red gel food coloring in another. Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just smooth—overmixing can make the cake tough. Divide the batter evenly and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before assembling.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

Beat softened cream cheese and sugar together until silky smooth. Add eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream, which enrich the batter and give the cheesecake its signature creaminess. Pour this cheesecake mixture over the cooled cookie crust or directly into a lined pan if skipping the crust, then bake at 325°F (160°C) for 40 to 45 minutes. The center should still have a slight jiggle, which firms as it chills. Cool fully, then refrigerate until cold and set.

Step 4: Assemble the Red Velvet Cheesecake Layer Cake

Place one red velvet cake layer on your serving plate and spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting to help hold the layers together. Carefully top with the chilled cheesecake layer, then gently frost the top with a light layer of frosting to secure the final cake layer in place. Finally, cover the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting, smoothing the sides and top for a flawless finish.

Step 5: Add Glaze and Decorate

Warm the strawberry or raspberry jam with water and lemon juice just enough to make it pourable but not too hot to melt the frosting. Pour this red berry glaze over the top of the cake, letting it drip enticingly over the edges. Finish with piped frosting decorations, red velvet crumbs from your cake trimmings, and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips for a beautiful and delicious final touch.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Layer Cake

Garnishes

Adding small details can elevate your Red Velvet Cheesecake Layer Cake to party status. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries complement the red berry glaze wonderfully and add a fresh, juicy contrast. A dusting of cocoa powder or delicate chocolate curls along the edges will bring extra elegance and texture to each slice.

Side Dishes

This cake stands well on its own, especially with a strong cup of coffee or a creamy latte. For a lighter contrast, serve alongside a simple mixed berry salad or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. These sides balance the richness and add refreshing elements that round out the dessert experience perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive occasion, consider mini versions of the Red Velvet Cheesecake Layer Cake in individual glass jars or cupcake form. Layering small squares of cake and cheesecake with frosting in clear glasses creates an eye-catching presentation that’s perfect for parties. You can also pipe decorative borders or rosettes around each slice on the plate to impress your guests with your pastry skills.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cake fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting and cheesecake layer require cool temperatures to maintain their texture and flavor. Properly covered, the cake will stay delicious for up to 4 to 5 days.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or preserve leftovers longer, the cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving. The texture and flavor hold up beautifully when thawed slowly.

Reheating

Since this cake tastes best slightly chilled, reheating isn’t typically necessary. However, if you prefer serving it closer to room temperature, let slices sit out for 15 to 20 minutes before eating to soften the frosting slightly. Avoid microwave reheating, as this can cause the cream cheese frosting to separate.

FAQs

Can I make this cake without the chocolate cookie crust?

Absolutely! The crust is optional but adds lovely texture and flavor. If you prefer a more traditional feel, simply bake the cheesecake layer in a lined pan without the crust and proceed with assembling the cake.

What’s the best way to get that deep red color in the red velvet layers?

Using red gel food coloring is key for vibrant, true red velvet tones. Liquid food coloring tends to dilute the batter and won’t achieve the same intensity, so gel varieties are preferred.

Can I substitute sour cream in the cheesecake layer?

Yes, heavy cream works well as a substitute and will produce a similarly rich and smooth cheesecake. If using sour cream, it adds a slight tang that complements the red velvet nicely.

How do I avoid the cheesecake cracking during baking?

Bake the cheesecake at a lower temperature and avoid overbaking. The center should still jiggle slightly when you remove it from the oven, as it will firm up while cooling and chilling. Gentle mixing and proper cooling prevent cracks too.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure. Be mindful your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the joy of slicing into a Red Velvet Cheesecake Layer Cake and savoring its perfect harmony of flavors and textures. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration wrapped in red and cream, guaranteed to delight friends and family alike. So go ahead, bake it, share it, and enjoy every bite of this sublime treat!

Print