If you have a weakness for decadent desserts that combine rich creaminess with playful textures, you are going to absolutely fall in love with this Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake Recipe. It’s a dreamy fusion of luscious cheesecake layered over a chocolate cookie crust, all crowned with irresistible homemade red velvet cookie dough studded with mini chocolate chips. Every bite delivers velvety smooth cheesecake alongside pockets of sweet and tender cookie dough, creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures that feel both nostalgic and elegantly indulgent. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends, this dessert has a way of stealing the spotlight and sparking joyful smiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is simple yet crucial, coming together to build irresistible layers of flavor and texture. From the cocoa-rich flour in the cookie dough to the creamy tang of the cheesecake, each component plays its part in crafting a dessert that’s as stunning to serve as it is delicious to eat.
- All-purpose flour (1 ¼ cups): Provides the structure for the red velvet cookie dough, balancing tenderness and chewiness perfectly.
- Cocoa powder (2 tbsp): Infuses a deep chocolate flavor and gives the dough its signature red velvet depth.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup softened + 4 tbsp melted): Adds rich creaminess to the dough, with melted butter binding the crust ingredients beautifully.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the cookie dough while helping it stay light and fluffy.
- Brown sugar, packed (¼ cup): Brings moisture and a hint of caramel complexity to the dough.
- Milk (2 tbsp): Keeps the cookie dough smooth and tender, ensuring it bakes up perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp for dough + 1 tsp for cheesecake): Enhances all the flavors with a fragrant warmth.
- Red gel food coloring (½ tsp): Achieves the classic, vibrant red hue without altering the taste.
- Mini chocolate chips (½ cup): Provide delightful bursts of melty chocolate throughout the dough.
- Cream cheese (16 oz softened): The star of the cheesecake layer; it makes it silky smooth and tangy.
- Powdered sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the cheesecake filling while keeping it silky and lump-free.
- Whipped cream or whipped topping (1 cup): Lightens the cheesecake filling to a fluffy, airy texture.
- Chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed (2 cups): Form the crunchy and chocolatey base crust.
How to Make Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust
Start by mixing the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with the melted butter until the mixture holds together when pressed. This combination creates a rich, crumbly crust that forms the perfect chocolate foundation for your cheesecake. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure it’s evenly spread. Pop it in the refrigerator to chill while you get started on the filling, so it sets up nice and firm.
Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Cookie Dough
In a bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder—these dry ingredients give the dough that delicious red velvet signature. In a separate, larger bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy; this aerates the dough and builds sweetness. Next, add the milk, vanilla extract, and red gel food coloring, beating until everything blends into a smooth, vibrant dough. Gently stir in the flour mixture until just combined; don’t overmix or the dough can toughen. Finally, fold in the mini chocolate chips for those irresistible melty bits. Set this cookie dough aside as it’s about to play a starring role.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cheesecake Layer
Grab a clean bowl and beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy. This process is key to a velvety texture. Once smooth, carefully fold in the whipped cream to lighten the mixture, giving your cheesecake filling a fluffy, airy quality that melts perfectly on your tongue.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Now for the fun part: spreading half of the red velvet cookie dough over the cooled crust. Press it down lightly—this ensures a sturdy base that still has that chewy cookie dough texture. Spoon the cheesecake filling over the cookie dough, smoothing it out evenly to form a thick, creamy layer. Then crumble the remaining cookie dough over the top of the cheesecake layer, pressing together a few chunks to add delightful texture contrast. This topping gives each bite that exciting sweet surprise.
Step 5: Chill to Perfection
Cover your masterpiece and refrigerate for at least four hours, or better yet, overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures your cheesecake sets just right, making it easy to slice and impossible not to adore.
How to Serve Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple or add a touch of elegance with garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce, or a few fresh raspberries to brighten the plate. Even a sprinkle of extra mini chocolate chips or white chocolate curls can take this dessert from impressive to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This cheesecake shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of chilled milk to balance its richness. For an added contrast, fresh berries or a tangy fruit compote alongside can bring a refreshing note that complements the sweet layers.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this cheesecake in individual jars or parfait glasses to showcase the layers beautifully for parties. Or go classic and slice into generous wedges, plating with the garnishes mentioned before. If you want a crowd-pleaser, try mini versions in cupcake liners—the same layers packed into bite-sized treats that vanish instantly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesecake can be kept covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from absorbing any fridge odors, and keep it chilled until you’re ready to enjoy the next slice of this heavenly Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake Recipe.
Freezing
This cheesecake freezes beautifully—wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to protect against freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve its creamy texture and full flavor, just like freshly made.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake cheesecake, it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If freezer-chilled, allow sufficient thawing time. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture and cause the cookie dough or cheesecake to become overly soft or grainy.
FAQs
Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel for the red velvet cookie dough?
You can, but gel food coloring is preferred because it provides a more vibrant red without adding extra liquid that could affect the dough’s texture. If using liquid food coloring, add it sparingly to avoid making the dough too wet.
Is it safe to eat cookie dough in this cheesecake?
This recipe uses flour that is not heat-treated and raw butter and eggs are not involved, making it safer than typical raw dough. However, if concerned about raw flour, you can heat-treat the flour in the oven before using it. The cookie dough here is designed to be eaten raw as part of the cheesecake.
Can I substitute the chocolate sandwich cookies for a different crust?
Absolutely! You can use graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or even a classic shortbread crust. Just be sure to adjust the quantity and melted butter to get a firm, cohesive base that holds well.
How long does the Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake Recipe take to set properly?
For best results, refrigerate for at least four hours, but overnight is ideal. This resting time gives the cheesecake the chance to firm up perfectly and the flavors to deepen, resulting in a richer, more satisfying dessert.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
With a few swaps, yes! Use gluten-free flour for the cookie dough and gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust. Just check all ingredients carefully to maintain the texture and flavor balance this recipe is known for.
Final Thoughts
This Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser with its delightful layers and balanced flavors that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Give it a try for your next special occasion or whenever a sweet treat is calling your name—you’ll see why it quickly earns a permanent place in your dessert rotation.
