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1 ½ cups crushed red velvet cake (crumbled or leftover)
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3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake layer:
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16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup sour cream
For topping:
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½ cup chopped walnuts, toasted
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Optional: drizzle of white chocolate or cream cheese frosting
Preparation:
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Prepare the crust:
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Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
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Mix red velvet cake crumbs and melted butter in a bowl until evenly combined.
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Press into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 9-inch springform pan.
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Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool while you prepare the filling.
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Make the cheesecake filling:
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In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
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Add sugar, and mix until combined.
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Beat in eggs, one at a time. Add vanilla and sour cream, and mix until smooth and creamy.
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Pour over the cooled crust.
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Bake the cheesecake:
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Place the pan in a water bath (optional but helps avoid cracks).
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Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is just set but slightly jiggly.
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Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cake cool for 1 hour inside.
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Chill and top:
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
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Before serving, sprinkle toasted walnuts on top and add optional white chocolate drizzle.
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Serving and Storage Tips:
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Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
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For clean slices, wipe the knife with a warm damp cloth between each cut.
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Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
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Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly for up to 1 month.
Variants:
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Nut-Free Version: Replace walnuts with crushed Oreos or chocolate chips for a nut-free topping.
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Mini Cheesecakes: Make in muffin tins for single-serve portions—great for parties.
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Swirled Red Velvet: Swirl a bit of the red velvet batter into the cheesecake for a marbled effect.
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Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese, egg replacers, and dairy-free butter to adapt.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use store-bought red velvet cake for the crust?
A: Absolutely! It’s a great way to use up leftover cake or even cupcakes.
Q: My cheesecake cracked—what did I do wrong?
A: Cracks often happen when the oven temperature is too high or it cools too fast. A water bath helps prevent this.
Q: Can I make this a no-bake cheesecake?
A: The red velvet crust needs baking, but you could use a graham cracker crust and a no-bake filling if you prefer.
Q: How do I toast walnuts?
A: Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until fragrant, stirring once.
Q: Can I add chocolate to the cheesecake layer?
A: Yes! A few tablespoons of melted white or dark chocolate mixed into the filling will elevate the richness.