Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something magical about the sight of a vibrant red dessert gracing your holiday table. The Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake with Oreo Crust is not only a stunning centerpiece, but it also offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance. This cheesecake’s rich and creamy filling paired with a crunchy, chocolatey Oreo base brings a comforting touch to any festive gathering. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a perfect go-to dessert for busy home chefs like us! Ready to impress your family and friends this season? Let’s dive into baking this show-stopping delight together! Why is this cheesecake a holiday must-try? Festive Flavors: The Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake beautifully blends seasonal charm and rich taste, creating an inviting dessert for your holiday celebrations. Show-stopping Appearance: Its vibrant red hue and elegant swirl pattern make it an eye-catching centerpiece on any festive table. Easily Customizable: From swapping the Oreo crust for a graham cracker base to adding a hint of peppermint extract, you can make this cheesecake your own. Delightfully Creamy: The velvety filling paired with the crunchy Oreo crust creates a textural contrast that is simply irresistible. Quick and Simple: In just a few straightforward steps, you can have a dessert that seems gourmet yet is easy enough for beginner bakers. For other delightful cheesecake ideas, don’t miss our Oreo Cheesecake Decadent or the whimsical Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake. Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake Ingredients For the Oreo Crust • Oreo Crumbs – A crunchy base that adds rich chocolate flavor; swap with graham cracker crumbs for a lighter option. • Melted Butter – Binds the cookie crumbs together; no substitutions recommended. For the Cheesecake Filling • Cream Cheese – The creamy base that provides tang and smooth texture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing. • Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake and enhances flavors; can be substituted with a sugar alternative. • Sour Cream – Adds moisture and tanginess; Greek yogurt is a healthier option if desired. • Vanilla Extract – Richens flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best results. • Eggs – Essential for structure; use large, room-temperature eggs for optimal mixing. For the Red Velvet Swirl • Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the red velvet batter. • Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture; can be replaced with canola oil. • Cocoa Powder – Provides that essential chocolate flavor characteristic of red velvet. • Buttermilk – Contributes acidity and moisture; substitute with milk mixed with vinegar for a quick fix. • Red Food Coloring – Achieves the signature red hue; gel food coloring is recommended for vibrancy. For Serving • Whipped Cream – Optional garnish that adds a light and airy texture. • Festive Sprinkles – Adds a touch of holiday cheer as a decorative garnish. • Oreo Cookies – Optional garnish that enhances the chocolaty finish. This Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake is not just a treat but a centerpiece that will truly wow your guests during the festive season! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Crust Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). While it heats, combine Oreo crumbs with melted butter in a mixing bowl until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely before filling. Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually mix in sour cream and vanilla extract, followed by the eggs, adding one at a time without overmixing. Set this delicious cheesecake filling aside while you prepare the red velvet swirl. Step 3: Prepare the Red Velvet Batter In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, buttermilk, vinegar, and vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add in flour and baking soda, whisking until the mixture is smooth. Add red food coloring until you achieve your desired vibrant hue of red for the red velvet swirl. Step 4: Layer the Cheesecake and Red Velvet Batter Pour half of the prepared cheesecake filling over the cooled Oreo crust in the springform pan. Add dollops of the red velvet batter on top, followed by the remaining cheesecake filling. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the batters together to create a marbled effect, taking care not to overmix. Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake Place the cheesecake in the preheated oven and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is slightly jiggly but set. Once done, turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour. This gentle cooling helps prevent cracks. Step 6: Chill the Cheesecake After it has cooled in the oven, transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully and achieves the perfect texture for the Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake. Step 7: Garnish and Serve When you’re ready to serve, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan. Top it with whipped cream, festive sprinkles, and crushed Oreo cookies, if desired, for an extra special touch. Slice and serve chilled for a delightful finish to your holiday gathering! What to Serve with Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake Looking to elevate your festive gathering with delightful pairings that play off the rich flavors of this show-stopping dessert? Hot Cocoa: This warm, chocolatey drink adds a cozy touch to your holiday dessert spread, enhancing the chocolate notes of the cheesecake. Peppermint Lattes: The refreshing minty flavor complements the richness of the cheesecake, making for a perfect pairing with festive vibes. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool contrast to the warm spices in the cheesecake, providing a delightful balance. Festive Fruit Salad: Bright fruits like pomegranate and citrus not only add color but also a refreshing burst that offsets the dense cheesecake. Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced crunch offers a delightful textural contrast to the smooth cheesecake, evoking the spirit of the season. Sparkling Apple Cider: A bubbly, non-alcoholic drink that brings a festive flair while complementing the sweet and tart elements of the cheesecake. Each of these pairings not only enhances the overall dining experience but also captures the essence of joy and celebration that comes with the holiday season! Storage Tips for Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake Fridge: Store your Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thawing: To enjoy your frozen cheesecake, simply transfer it to the fridge and thaw overnight before serving. This ensures it retains its delicious creamy texture. Serving: This cheesecake is best served chilled. Avoid reheating, as it could alter the texture and flavor that makes it so special! Make Ahead Options Preparing the Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during the busy holiday season! You can make the Oreo crust and the cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them separately. Just ensure the crust is completely cooled before wrapping it tightly. Additionally, you can prepare the red velvet batter up to 3 days ahead, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its quality and vibrant color. When you’re ready to bake, pour the cheesecake filling over the crust, layer the red velvet, gently swirl, and pop it in the oven. This way, you’ll have a stunning holiday dessert without the last-minute rush, ensuring that the flavors meld beautifully for a delightful treat! Expert Tips for Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature cream cheese and eggs for smoother blending, ensuring a creamy texture in your Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake. Prevent Cracks: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding eggs to maintain the cheesecake’s structure and avoid unsightly cracks on the surface. Gentle Cooling: Always cool your cheesecake gradually in the oven to minimize the risk of cracks—it’s a crucial step for a flawless finish! Slicing Technique: For clean cuts, warm a knife under hot water before slicing. This will help preserve the beautiful layers of your cheesecake. Storage Secrets: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep your cheesecake fresh and flavorful throughout the holidays. Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake Variations Customize this festive delight with delicious twists that will elevate your holiday gatherings! Graham Cracker Crust: Swap Oreo crumbs for graham cracker crumbs to create a lighter, zesty base. This subtle change adds a pleasing crunch and allows the cheesecake flavors to shine. Mini Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the red velvet batter for delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite. It’s a fun textural twist that both kids and adults will adore! Peppermint Extract: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing minty twist. This festive flavor will surely evoke holiday cheer with every slice! Vegan Version: Replace cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative and eggs with flaxseed meal or aquafaba. The same creamy deliciousness can be made to suit plant-based diets! Spiced Nutmeg: Incorporate a pinch of ground nutmeg into the batter for a warm, spicy undertone that beautifully complements the creamy cheesecake. It brings a cozy holiday vibe to every bite! Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the chilled cheesecake before serving for an elegant finish that enhances the rich flavors. A perfect touch to impress your guests! Fruit Swirl: Blend fresh raspberries or strawberries into a puree and swirl it into the cheesecake filling for a fresh, colorful enhancement. It adds flavor and makes for a stunning presentation. Different Sprinkles: Play with different types of festive sprinkles like gold or silver edible glitter for a dazzling finish that’ll wow your holiday guests as they admire this masterpiece. For more cheesecake inspiration, explore our delightful Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake or the decadent Oreo Cheesecake Decadent that are sure to please any palate! Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe FAQs What type of Oreos should I use for the crust? Absolutely! Regular Oreo cookies are ideal for the crust to achieve that delightful chocolate flavor and crunch. You can also use seasonal limited edition Oreos for a fun twist if available. How should I store the cheesecake? I recommend storing your Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keeping it tightly wrapped ensures it retains its luscious texture and flavors. If you want to make it ahead of time, freezing is a great option! Can I freeze the Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake? Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. First, ensure that it’s completely chilled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. What should I do if my cheesecake cracks? Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! To prevent cracking, be sure to mix your batter gently and avoid overmixing after adding the eggs. Additionally, allow it to cool gradually in the open oven. If it still cracks, you can always cover it with whipped cream or sprinkles to create a beautiful presentation. Are there any dietary considerations for this cheesecake? Very much so! This cheesecake is vegetarian-friendly, but if you or your guests have allergies (like to dairy or gluten), consider using dairy-free cream cheese and gluten-free cookie options. It’s always good to check with your guests about dietary restrictions before serving! How can I customize the flavors of this cheesecake? The more the merrier! You can swap the Oreo crust for a graham cracker or ginger snap base for a different flavor profile. Adding peppermint extract or folding in mini chocolate chips into the red velvet batter are other excellent ways to put a personal touch on this festive dessert! Decadent Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake to Wow Your Guests This Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake features a stunning red dessert that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it a holiday must-try. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes minsChilling Time 4 hours hrsTotal Time 5 hours hrs 35 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Oreo Crust2 cups Oreo Crumbs A crunchy base that adds rich chocolate flavor; swap with graham cracker crumbs for a lighter option.1/2 cup Melted Butter Binds the cookie crumbs together; no substitutions recommended.For the Cheesecake Filling16 oz Cream Cheese Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.1 cup Granulated Sugar Can be substituted with a sugar alternative.1 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt is a healthier option if desired.1 tbsp Vanilla Extract Opt for pure vanilla for the best results.3 large Eggs Use large, room-temperature eggs for optimal mixing.For the Red Velvet Swirl1 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens the red velvet batter.1/2 cup Vegetable Oil Can be replaced with canola oil.1 tbsp Cocoa Powder Provides essential chocolate flavor.1 cup Buttermilk Substitute with milk mixed with vinegar for a quick fix.2 tbsp Red Food Coloring Gel food coloring is recommended for vibrancy.For Serving1 cup Whipped Cream Optional garnish for a light texture.1 cup Festive Sprinkles Adds a touch of holiday cheer.6 pieces Oreo Cookies Optional garnish that enhances the chocolaty finish. Equipment springform panMixing bowlElectric MixerWhisk Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Christmas Red Velvet CheesecakePreheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Combine Oreo crumbs with melted butter until well mixed. Press this mixture into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 8 minutes and let it cool completely.In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until smooth, about 2 minutes. Gradually mix in sour cream and vanilla extract, then add eggs one at a time without overmixing. Set aside.In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, buttermilk, vinegar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add flour and baking soda, whisk until combined, then add red food coloring until desired hue is achieved.Pour half of the cheesecake filling over the cooled Oreo crust. Add dollops of the red velvet batter, followed by the remaining cheesecake filling. Use a knife to swirl together.Bake in the oven for 55–65 minutes, until the center is slightly jiggly but set. Turn off the oven and crack the door open, letting the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour.Transfer the cheesecake to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.Remove from the springform pan, top with whipped cream, festive sprinkles, and crushed Oreo cookies if desired, then serve chilled. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 6gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesUse room-temperature ingredients for smoother blending. Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks. Cool cheesecake gradually in the oven for a flawless finish. Warm a knife for clean cuts when slicing. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!