Red Velvet Oreo Cheesecake Recipe
This Red Velvet Oreo Cheesecake is a luscious dessert combining the rich, creamy texture of classic cheesecake with the bold flavors of red velvet and Oreo cookies. The base features a buttery Oreo crumb crust, topped with a smooth red velvet-infused cream cheese batter baked in a water bath for a silky finish. Finished with a decadent cream cheese frosting and crushed Oreo garnish, this cheesecake is perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats.
- Author: Yana
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Crust
- 2 ½ cups Oreo cookie crumbs
- 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Batter
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup heavy cream
Garnish
- 6–8 full-sized Oreo cookies, crushed
- Prepare Pan and Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent leaks. Combine 2 ½ cups Oreo cookie crumbs with 5 tablespoons melted unsalted butter and mix well. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake and Cool Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until set. Remove from oven and let it cool completely while preparing the cheesecake batter.
- Make Cheesecake Batter: In a stand mixer, beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add ¾ cup granulated sugar and 1 ½ tablespoons cocoa powder, mixing on low speed until just combined. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing only until each egg is incorporated to avoid overmixing and incorporating too much air.
- Add Flavor and Color: In a separate small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup sour cream, 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon red food coloring. Pour this mixture into the cream cheese batter and gently mix on low speed until fully combined and the batter is evenly colored.
- Prepare Water Bath and Bake: Pour the finished cheesecake batter over the cooled Oreo crust in the foil-wrapped springform pan. Place the springform pan inside a larger roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the roasting pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan to create a water bath that prevents cracking and ensures even baking. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight wobble when gently shaken.
- Cool Cheesecake: After baking, turn off the oven but keep the cheesecake inside with the oven door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually. Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and place it on a wire rack to cool completely at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours. Cover loosely with plastic wrap during cooling.
- Chill Cheesecake: Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 6 to 8 hours, preferably overnight, to allow it to fully set and develop flavors.
- Make Cream Cheese Frosting: Using a stand mixer, beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese with ¾ cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add ¼ cup sour cream and 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract and mix until incorporated. Gradually pour in ½ cup heavy cream while continuing to beat until the frosting becomes light, airy, and spreadable.
- Assemble and Garnish: Once the cheesecake is completely chilled, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Spread the prepared cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cheesecake. Sprinkle with crushed 6 to 8 Oreo cookies for garnish. Slice with a sharp knife and serve immediately for best texture and taste.
- Store: Store any leftover Red Velvet Oreo Cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Wrapping the springform pan with aluminum foil is crucial to prevent water from seeping into the cheesecake during the water bath baking process.
- Do not overmix the cheesecake batter after adding eggs to prevent air bubbles and cracks.
- Use room temperature cream cheese and sour cream for a smoother batter.
- Water bath baking helps achieve a creamy, crack-free cheesecake texture.
- For best results, chill the cheesecake overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
- The crushed Oreo garnish adds a crunchy texture contrast and enhances the Oreo flavor.
- Slicing the cheesecake with a hot, clean knife (running under warm water between slices) helps achieve clean cuts.
Keywords: Red Velvet Oreo Cheesecake, Oreo Cheesecake, Red Velvet Cheesecake, Cream Cheese Frosting, Water Bath Cheesecake