Easy Red Velvet Cheesecake

Easy Red Velvet Cheesecake is a show-stopping dessert that looks elegant but is surprisingly simple to make. This recipe combines a moist red velvet cake base with a rich and creamy no-bake cheesecake layer, making it perfect for holidays, parties, and special occasions. Using a boxed cake mix saves time while still delivering amazing flavor and texture. It’s an excellent make-ahead dessert that slices beautifully and always impresses.

Ingredients

Red Velvet Cake Layer
• 1 box red velvet cake mix (15.25 oz)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup milk

No-Bake Cheesecake Layer
• 12 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups heavy whipping cream, cold

Optional Toppings
• Whipped cream
• Fresh raspberries or strawberries

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F and grease the bottom and sides of a 10-inch springform pan
• In a large bowl, combine cake mix, egg, oil, and milk
• Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth
• Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan
• Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean
• Do not overbake; gently level the cake if needed
• Cool completely, then run a knife around the edge to loosen the cake
• In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy
• In a separate bowl, beat cold whipping cream on low for 1 minute, then high for 3 to 4 minutes until stiff peaks form
• Gently fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture
• Spread cheesecake layer evenly over the cooled cake
• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight
• Decorate as desired before serving

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve chilled for clean slices and best texture
• Use a hot knife for smooth, professional-looking cuts
• Garnish just before serving for the freshest appearance
• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months
• Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator before serving

Variations

1. Chocolate Drizzle Red Velvet Cheesecake
   Add melted chocolate or chocolate ganache on top for extra richness
2. Oreo Red Velvet Cheesecake
   Sprinkle crushed Oreos over the cheesecake layer or mix into the filling
3. Strawberry Red Velvet Cheesecake
   Top with sliced strawberries or strawberry pie filling
4. Raspberry White Chocolate Version
   Add white chocolate chips to the cheesecake and top with raspberries
5. Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cheesecake
   Decorate with heart-shaped sprinkles and whipped cream rosettes
6. Mini Red Velvet Cheesecakes
   Make in muffin tins with liners for individual servings
7. Peppermint Red Velvet Cheesecake
   Add crushed peppermint candies for a festive holiday twist
8. Gluten-Free Red Velvet Cheesecake
   Use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix
9. Lemon Cream Cheese Layer
   Add lemon zest and a little lemon juice to the cheesecake layer
10. Mocha Red Velvet Cheesecake
    Add espresso powder to the cake mix for a coffee-chocolate flavor
11. Cheesecake with Cookie Crust
    Add a thin Oreo or chocolate cookie crust under the cake layer
12. Extra Creamy Cheesecake
    Add an additional 4 ounces of cream cheese for a richer layer
13. Red Velvet Cheesecake with Cream Cheese Frosting Swirl
    Swirl cream cheese frosting into the cheesecake layer
14. Nutty Red Velvet Cheesecake
    Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top
15. Birthday Cake Red Velvet Cheesecake
    Top with colorful sprinkles and candles for celebrations

FAQs

What toppings work best
Fresh berries, chocolate drizzle, or whipped cream are all great choices

Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time
Yes, it’s best made a day in advance to allow it to fully set

Do I have to use a springform pan
A springform pan is recommended for easy removal, but a deep dish pan can work

Can I use homemade red velvet cake
Yes, homemade red velvet cake works perfectly

How long does it need to chill
At least 4 hours, but overnight is best

Can I freeze this cheesecake
Yes, freeze tightly wrapped slices for up to 2 months

Can I use low-fat cream cheese
Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture, but low-fat can be used

Why is my cheesecake layer soft
It may need more chilling time or stiffer whipped cream

Can I add food coloring
No additional coloring is needed if using red velvet cake mix

How do I prevent cracks
Since it’s no-bake, cracking is rarely an issue

This Easy Red Velvet Cheesecake is the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and chocolatey flavors with a soft cake base and a light cheesecake topping. It’s ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers and delivers bakery-quality results with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or simply craving a decadent dessert, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.

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