Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake with Oreo Crust

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Rich, vibrant, and irresistibly creamy, this Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake with Oreo Crust is a showstopper holiday dessert that combines festive flair with indulgent flavor. It features a strikingly red, velvety smooth cheesecake filling over a chocolatey Oreo cookie crust, topped with fluffy whipped cream and seasonal sprinkles. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or contributing to a festive potluck, this dessert guarantees compliments and second servings.

The beauty of this cheesecake isn’t just its festive look. It’s the layers of texture—the crunch of the Oreo base, the silky red velvet cream cheese filling, and the cloud-like topping. Every bite is a balance of chocolate and tang, sweet and smooth. It also holds its shape beautifully, making for clean slices and Instagram-worthy plating.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the baking process, it’s crucial to gather the right tools for smooth execution and the best results. Here are the essentials:

• Springform Pan (9-inch): This is a must for any cheesecake. It allows you to release the cake without damaging the crust or filling.
• Food Processor or Blender: Ideal for crushing the Oreo cookies into a fine crumb for a compact crust.
• Hand or Stand Mixer: Helps achieve a smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter, which is key to that velvety texture.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few—one for the crust, one for the batter, and one for whipped cream if you make it from scratch.
• Rubber Spatula: For scraping down the sides of your bowl and ensuring every bit of batter is evenly mixed.
• Baking Sheet with Water (for water bath): Helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracks.
• Aluminum Foil: Used to wrap the outside of the springform pan to avoid water leakage during the water bath.

With these tools ready, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a professional-quality cheesecake right at home.

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Ingredients for the Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake with Oreo Crust

Each ingredient in this festive dessert plays an essential role in creating flavor, texture, and visual appeal:

• Oreo Cookies (crushed): These form the crust, adding a rich chocolatey crunch that complements the creamy filling.
• Melted Butter: Binds the Oreo crumbs together and gives the crust a firm texture when chilled.
• Cream Cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake, providing a tangy, creamy base.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances the tang of the cream cheese and sweetens the entire dessert.
• Sour Cream: Adds an extra level of creaminess and helps create a smoother texture.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and helps lighten the filling just enough for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Eggs: Essential for binding the filling and giving the cheesecake its firm but creamy structure.
• Red Food Coloring: Brings that iconic red velvet hue to life.
• Cocoa Powder: A hint of cocoa gives the cheesecake its signature red velvet flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the other flavors with warm depth.
• Whipped Cream (store-bought or homemade): For topping, adding a light, airy contrast to the dense filling.
• Holiday Sprinkles or Crushed Peppermint: Optional, but great for festive flair and presentation.

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How To Make the Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake with Oreo Crust

Step 1: Make the Oreo Crust

Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or blender. Mix with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan. Place in the freezer to set while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Add the sour cream, heavy cream, and red food coloring. Beat again until velvety. Finally, add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until blended after each.

Step 3: Bake with a Water Bath

Wrap the bottom of the springform pan in aluminum foil to prevent leaks. Place the pan in a large roasting pan and pour hot water around it, about halfway up the sides. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is nearly set but still slightly jiggly.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

Carefully remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 5: Decorate and Serve

Top with whipped cream and festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint just before serving. Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts and enjoy!

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Serving and Storing Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake with Oreo Crust

For serving, bring the cheesecake out of the refrigerator about 15 minutes before slicing to make cutting easier while maintaining its structure. Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry for each slice to get those clean edges. This cheesecake is a centerpiece-worthy dessert, ideal for holiday tables or even as a gift-worthy treat in festive boxes.

To store, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap or transfer slices into an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it (without the toppings) for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before decorating and serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make this cheesecake?

You can prepare the cheesecake up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and decorate before serving.

Do I need to use a water bath?

Yes, it helps prevent cracks and promotes even baking. The steam from the water keeps the texture smooth and custard-like.

Can I skip the red food coloring?

You can, but then it won’t have the classic red velvet look. If you prefer a natural dye, try beet powder as an alternative.

What type of cream cheese works best?

Always go for full-fat block-style cream cheese for the creamiest results. Avoid whipped or spreadable versions.

How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

Look for a set edge and a slightly jiggly center. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so start checking around 50 minutes.

Can I use a different crust?

Absolutely! Graham crackers or chocolate wafer cookies work well if you want to change it up, but Oreos deliver that classic holiday contrast and flavor.

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Want More Cheesecake Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re loving the festive vibes of this Christmas Red Velvet Cheesecake, here are a few other rich and creamy desserts from my kitchen that you’ll want to try next:

• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes if you want a playful breakfast-dessert hybrid.
• Strawberry Crunch Pound Cake for a fruity crunch-packed alternative.
• Tiramisu Cupcakes when you’re in the mood for coffee-infused indulgence.
• Pineapple Coconut Dream Cake to bring tropical notes to your dessert table.
• Irresistible Blueberry Lime Cheesecake Cupcakes for a sweet-tart burst of flavor.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you decorate with peppermint or keep it classic? Maybe added some chocolate curls on top?

I always enjoy seeing how you put your own spin on these desserts. Drop your thoughts or questions below and let’s keep the baking magic going.

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