If there’s ever a dessert that perfectly blends indulgence, nostalgia, and pure joy—it’s this Red Velvet Oreo Cheesecake. This is the kind of dessert that instantly becomes the centerpiece of any celebration. It’s that decadent, swoon-worthy showstopper that gets whispered about at family gatherings, birthday parties, or even just a cozy night in with your favorite people.

I first made this cheesecake for a friend’s winter birthday party. She adores anything red velvet, and I had just discovered a stash of Oreos in my pantry—classic chocolate ones, the perfect match for red velvet’s signature tang and sweetness. A cheesecake felt like the most festive option, and combining these three elements? It was a dessert lover’s dream come true.

What makes this Red Velvet Oreo Cheesecake so special is that it captures the best of both worlds—the creamy richness of cheesecake with that distinctive cocoa flavor and dramatic color of red velvet cake, all layered on top of a buttery Oreo crust. It’s bold, beautiful, and somehow both elegant and playful at the same time.

Whether you’re baking for a birthday, Valentine’s Day, or just because life is too short not to eat red velvet cheesecake, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Stunning Presentation – That rich red hue against the deep Oreo crust is absolutely striking.
• Texture Heaven – Creamy, smooth cheesecake meets crunchy cookie base.
• Perfectly Balanced – Slight tang from the cream cheese, sweetness from the sugar, and a hint of cocoa.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – This dessert actually tastes even better after chilling overnight.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

For the Crust:

• 24 Oreo cookies
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

• 3 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 10 Oreo cookies, chopped

For the Topping (Optional):

• Whipped cream
• Crushed Oreos

HOW TO MAKE RED VELVET OREO CHEESECAKE:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Oreo Crust

Place the Oreo cookies (filling and all) into a food processor and pulse until you get fine crumbs. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your springform pan. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to really pack it down tightly. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set it aside to cool while you make the filling.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesecake Batter

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer (or stand mixer) until it’s smooth and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes. This step is key for that silky texture.

Add the sugar and mix until combined. Then add the sour cream, eggs (one at a time), vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring. Beat on medium-low until everything is well blended and smooth.

Gently fold in the chopped Oreo cookies using a rubber spatula—these little chunks will give bursts of crunch in every creamy bite.

Step 4: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared crust and smooth out the top.

Now for the water bath trick: Wrap the bottom of the pan in aluminum foil and place it in a larger baking dish. Pour hot water into the dish (about halfway up the sides of the springform pan). This helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracking.

Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.

Step 5: Cool and Chill

Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour. This helps it gradually come to room temperature, which prevents sinking or cracking.

After that, transfer it to the fridge and chill for at least 6 hours—preferably overnight.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Room Temp Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese, sour cream, and eggs are at room temperature to avoid lumps.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid incorporating too much air, which can cause cracks.
• Use a Water Bath: It’s a little extra effort, but it’s so worth it for that smooth, crack-free top.
• Chill Time is Key: The cheesecake sets best when chilled overnight—don’t rush it!

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 7 hours (includes chilling time)
• Yield: 12 slices
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

NOTES:

You can make this cheesecake a day or two in advance—it stores beautifully and actually tastes even better after resting. You can also dress it up with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or even a layer of cream cheese frosting for a little extra flair.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION: (Approximate per slice)

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 28g
• Protein: 6g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat gives the best texture and flavor.

Do I need a springform pan?
It’s highly recommended for easy removal and that perfect cheesecake shape.

How do I know it’s done baking?
The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle—it will continue to firm up as it cools.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. You can also freeze slices—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Nutella Cheesecake Bars
• Irresistible Caramel Toffee Crunch Cake
• Chocolate Strawberry Swirl Cheesecake
• Decadent Oreo Cheesecake – A Rich and Creamy Delight

CONCLUSION

Red Velvet Oreo Cheesecake isn’t just a dessert—it’s an experience. With its luxurious texture, unforgettable flavor, and picture-perfect appearance, it’s sure to become your new favorite treat for any special occasion (or just because). So preheat that oven, grab your favorite mixing bowl, and get ready to wow yourself and everyone else with this irresistibly creamy creation.

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