Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake Recipe

If you love desserts that marry decadence with fun, Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake is about to become your new obsession! This showstopper layers a crisp chocolate cookie crust, thick swirls of luscious, tangy cheesecake, and chewy, chocolatey bites of red velvet cookie dough. It’s a dreamy, no-bake treat that delivers a stunning pop of color and a glorious medley of textures—all in one slice. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to turn an ordinary day into a party, you’ll find that this Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake is as delightful to make as it is to devour!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Even though this cheesecake looks and tastes ultra-luxurious, the ingredient list is refreshingly simple. Each component brings its own magic, from the rich cream cheese to the vibrant red velvet dough and the classic cookie crust. Here’s what you’ll need, plus why each item matters:

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure for the cookie dough, making each bite soft and chewy but not crumbly.
• Cocoa powder: Delivers that signature red velvet flavor and deep chocolatey notes.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind both the cookie dough and the crust together.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookie dough for that classic red velvet taste.
• Brown sugar, packed: Brings caramel-like depth and keeps the cookie dough moist.
• Milk: Loosens up the dough, ensuring it’s soft and scoopable.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses the entire dessert with warmth and aromatic sweetness.
• Red food coloring: Gives the cookie dough its irresistible, festive hue!
• Mini chocolate chips: Add chocolatey flecks in every bite of the cookie dough.
• Cream cheese, softened: Forms the silky, tangy base of your no-bake cheesecake layer.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths out the cheesecake filling.
• Heavy cream, whipped: Gives the filling its pillowy, cloud-like texture.
• Chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed: Bring familiar cookies-and-cream flavor and crunch to the crust.
• Unsalted butter (for crust): Holds the crust together for perfect slices every time.

How to Make Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by crushing your favorite chocolate sandwich cookies—go for a fine crumb so the crust holds together nicely. Mix with melted butter to create a deliciously rich base, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Place the pan in the fridge to let the crust set while you tackle the delicious layers ahead.

Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Cookie Dough

Whisk the all-purpose flour and cocoa powder together in a medium bowl to evenly distribute the chocolate flavor. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until creamy and fluffy. Mix in the milk, vanilla, and enough red food coloring to make your dough pop with vibrant color. Gradually add your dry ingredients, stirring until just combined, then fold in the mini chocolate chips for a burst of chocolate in every bite.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until perfectly smooth and airy. Gently fold in the freshly whipped cream to keep the filling light and cloud-like; over-mixing can deflate the mixture, so a light hand is key here—aim for a silky batter with an almost mousse-like consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake

Take your chilled crust and spread half of the red velvet cookie dough evenly over it, pressing gently to create a layer that hugs the crust. Next, spoon on the cheesecake filling and smooth it out. For that jaw-dropping finish, drizzle chocolate ganache if you like, then crumble the remaining cookie dough over the top and sprinkle with extra chocolate chips. Every layer is as inviting as the last!

Step 5: Chill and Set

This is the hardest part: waiting! Pop your cheesecake into the fridge for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best if you can stand it. This step lets the flavors meld and ensures the cheesecake holds together beautifully when sliced. Time to get excited for that big reveal!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake

Garnishes

Dress up your Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake with a sprinkling of extra mini chocolate chips, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a few dollops of whipped cream. For a festive touch, try some edible glitter or red velvet cake crumbs on top—presentation makes it irresistible before anyone even tastes it!

Side Dishes

A slice of this cheesecake is rich and satisfying on its own, but if you want to go all out, pair it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Coffee, cold brew, or even a frothy hot chocolate will complement the flavors and turn dessert into a full-on celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, you can make mini cheesecakes in cupcake liners, or slice the Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake into small bars for a treat table. If you love to wow your guests, serve with decorative forks and mini heart-shaped sprinkles, or decorate each slice with a mini cookie on top for an extra cute touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Simply cover the cheesecake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4–5 days, and the cookie dough bits will stay chewy and delicious. Try to chill leftovers as soon as you’re done serving for the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake in individual slices or as a whole. Wrap each piece securely in plastic and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will be perfect for up to a month—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

No reheating needed for this no-bake delight; it’s meant to be enjoyed cold and creamy. Take slices out about 10–15 minutes before serving to take the chill off and enjoy the full, dreamy texture of the cheesecake and cookie dough layers.

FAQs

Can I make Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake without a springform pan?

Absolutely. If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a deep pie dish or even a square brownie pan lined with parchment so you can lift the cheesecake out easily after chilling.

Is the cookie dough in this cheesecake safe to eat raw?

Yes! The cookie dough doesn’t contain eggs, and the flour can be briefly microwaved or baked to eliminate any risk, making it perfectly safe (and super tasty) to eat without baking.

Can I use store-bought cookie dough instead?

You could, but making your own from scratch lets you control the color, texture, and chocolate chip level. The homemade version also gives your Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake its signature wow factor and flavor!

How long does it take to set in the fridge?

Give it at least 4 hours so the cheesecake firms up, but overnight chills give the cleanest slices and richest flavor. This wait is so worth it once you cut into that perfectly layered dessert.

Can I make this cheesecake gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend, use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies for the crust, and double-check all your other ingredients. The result is just as indulgent and beautiful.

Final Thoughts

This Red Velvet Cookie Dough Cheesecake is the kind of dessert that makes memories—joyful to make, beautiful to behold, and unforgettable to eat. Don’t be surprised when friends and family ask for the recipe (and another slice). Give this dreamy treat a try and see just how much fun you’ll have mixing, layering, and, best of all, sharing every bite.