Decadent Red Velvet Cheesecake with Chocolate Ganache Topping

This Red Velvet Cheesecake combines the elegance of a red velvet cake with the creamy richness of cheesecake, topped with a luscious chocolate ganache. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any occasion that calls for a stunning dessert centerpiece.

Ingredients

Red Velvet Cake Layer:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring

Cheesecake Layer:

• 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream

Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy cream

Optional Toppings:

• Whipped cream
• Red velvet crumbs
• Mini chocolate chips

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Cake Layer

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture. Add red food coloring and mix until smooth.
5. Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. Beat Ingredients: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream.
2. Layer and Bake: Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled red velvet cake. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Step 3: Prepare the Ganache

1. Melt Chocolate: Heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips and let sit for 2–3 minutes. Stir until smooth.

Step 4: Decorate the Cheesecake

1. Spread Ganache: Pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake, allowing it to drip naturally down the sides.
2. Add Garnishes: Decorate with whipped cream, red velvet crumbs, and mini chocolate chips for an elegant finish.

Serving Tips

• Chill Before Serving: Let the cheesecake chill for another 30 minutes after decorating for the ganache to set.
• Slice Cleanly: Use a hot knife (wiped clean between cuts) for perfect slices.
• Pair with Drinks: Enjoy with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Dual Layers of Indulgence: The combination of moist red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake creates an unforgettable texture and flavor profile.
• Visually Stunning: The rich colors and shiny chocolate ganache make this dessert an eye-catching masterpiece.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A versatile dessert suitable for both casual gatherings and elegant celebrations.

Pro Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter and even baking.
• Prevent Cracks: Bake the cheesecake in a water bath for a perfectly smooth top.
• Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated for up to 5 days in an airtight container.