The Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of indulging in a dessert that combines the rich, velvety taste of red velvet with the creamy delight of cheesecake, look no further! This Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With layers of luscious red velvet cake and a smooth, creamy cheesecake filling, this cake is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake is a showstopper that brings joy to every gathering.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe is not just another dessert; it’s a masterpiece that combines two beloved desserts into one delectable creation. The moist red velvet cake pairs beautifully with the creamy, tangy cheesecake, creating a harmony of flavors that is hard to resist. Plus, it’s visually stunning with its vibrant red color, making it perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any festive occasion. Once you try this cake, it will become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Gather These Ingredients
To make this delightful cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 32 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 3/4 cup sour cream, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 4 tablespoons red food coloring
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons cream of coconut (optional)
Cook’s Kit
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools:
- Two 9-inch round cake pans – for even baking and easy layer separation.
- Mixing bowls – at least two sizes for mixing the cake batter and cheesecake filling.
- Electric mixer – for smooth and creamy results.
- Spatula – for folding ingredients and spreading frosting.
- Cooling rack – to ensure cakes cool properly before assembly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient ratios.
Method: The Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Pour this mixture into a greased 9-inch round cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar, mixing until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix!
Step 3: Bake the Red Velvet Cakes
Divide the red velvet batter evenly between the two prepared 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the 8 ounces of cream cheese and 3 1/2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and cream of coconut (if using), mixing until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Once the cheesecake layer and the red velvet cakes are completely cool, it’s time to assemble! Place one layer of red velvet cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top, then carefully place the cheesecake layer on top of the frosting. Add another layer of frosting on top of the cheesecake, followed by the second layer of red velvet cake.
Spread frosting over the top and sides of the entire cake, smoothing it out as you go. Decorate with any additional toppings you like, such as grated chocolate or fresh berries.
Better Choices & Swaps

If you’re looking for alternatives or substitutions, consider these options:
- For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cream cheese.
- Swap out the buttermilk for a dairy-free alternative like almond milk with a splash of vinegar.
- Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetener.
- Replace the red food coloring with beet juice for a natural color.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
- Do not overmix the cake batter; this can lead to a dense cake.
- For a beautiful presentation, use a cake scraper to smooth the frosting.
- If you want to save time, you can prepare the cheesecake layer a day ahead.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
This cake can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. This way, you can enjoy a piece anytime you crave it! To reheat, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the red velvet layers and the cheesecake layer ahead of time. Just make sure to store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the cake.
How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
To prevent cracking, avoid overmixing the cheesecake batter and bake it at a lower temperature. Additionally, letting the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door cracked can help.
Can I use a different frosting for this cake?
Yes! While cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with red velvet, you can also use a classic buttercream or chocolate ganache for a different flavor profile.
What can I serve with this cake?
This cake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with whipped cream, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added decadence.
Serve with These
- Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies for a delightful treat.
- Butter Cake With Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe to complement the flavors.
Final Thoughts
Creating the Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe is easier than you might think, and the results are truly spectacular. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that will have your friends and family coming back for seconds. With its rich taste and stunning appearance, it’s bound to become a favorite for any occasion. Enjoy every slice, and don’t forget to share the love (or keep it all to yourself, we won’t judge!). Happy baking!

The Ultimate Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined. Pour this mixture into a greased 9-inch round cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar, mixing until well combined.
- Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix!
- Step 4: Divide the red velvet batter evenly between the two prepared 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 5: While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the 8 ounces of cream cheese and 3 1/2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and cream of coconut (if using), mixing until well combined.
- Step 6: Once the cheesecake layer and the red velvet cakes are completely cool, it’s time to assemble! Place one layer of red velvet cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top, then carefully place the cheesecake layer on top of the frosting. Add another layer of frosting on top of the cheesecake, followed by the second layer of red velvet cake. Spread frosting over the top and sides of the entire cake, smoothing it out as you go. Decorate with any additional toppings you like, such as grated chocolate or fresh berries.
Notes
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
- Do not overmix the cake batter; this can lead to a dense cake.
- For a beautiful presentation, use a cake scraper to smooth the frosting.
- If you want to save time, you can prepare the cheesecake layer a day ahead.
