Description
A decadent Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake featuring a graham cracker crust, rich red velvet cheesecake filling, and a delicious buttery pecan topping. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Cheesecake Filling
- 2 ½ cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- ½ cup heavy cream
Pecan Topping
- 1 ½ cups pecans, chopped
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes until set, then remove and let it cool.
- Make the cheesecake filling: Beat together softened cream cheese, sour cream, and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and ensure a smooth batter. Mix in flour, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until fully combined and smooth.
- Bake the cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake batter evenly over the cooled crust. Bake for 55-60 minutes until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Once baked, turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour to cool gradually, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the pecan topping: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar together. Add chopped pecans, salt, and vanilla extract, cooking and stirring for about 5 minutes until the pecans are toasted and the mixture bubbles. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Assemble and serve: Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, spread the pecan topping evenly across the top. Slice into 12 servings and enjoy your luxurious Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake!
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake batter.
- Use a water bath if you wish to prevent cracking in the cheesecake, though it is optional here.
- Let the cheesecake chill sufficiently for best texture and flavor.
- The pecan topping can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container.
- Use a sharp serrated knife for clean cheesecake slices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
