Ingredients
Scale
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons red gel food coloring
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 24 Oreo sandwich cookies, finely crushed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by wrapping the exterior tightly in heavy-duty foil. Combine the crushed Oreos and melted butter, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Step 2: Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl using an electric mixer until the mixture is completely smooth and lump-free, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Step 3: Mix in the sour cream, cocoa powder, and red gel food coloring until the mixture is uniform and a vibrant red. Ensure all ingredients are well combined before proceeding.
- Step 4: Gently beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing only until each egg is just incorporated. Overmixing the eggs can cause the cheesecake to crack. Pour the red velvet filling over the Oreo crust.
- Step 5: Place the foil-wrapped pan into a large roasting pan and fill the roasting pan halfway up the sides of the springform with hot water (this is a water bath). Bake for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
- Step 6: Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven for 1 hour. Remove from the water bath, cool completely on a wire rack, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours before slicing.
Notes
- Keep leftover cheesecake covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; for longer storage, freeze individual slices and thaw overnight in the fridge.
- This cheesecake is best served thoroughly chilled; ensure it rests in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours—or preferably overnight—to achieve the perfect firm texture for clean slicing.
- Elevate the festive presentation by garnishing each slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a light sprinkle of reserved Oreo crumbs or holiday edible glitter before serving.
- To ensure a truly vibrant, deep red color characteristic of classic red velvet, use a high-quality gel food coloring (not liquid) and make sure the cocoa powder is fully dispersed before adding the eggs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American