The Best Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe You Need to Try

Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Red Velvet Cheesecake. With its rich, velvety texture, a hint of cocoa, and creamy cheesecake layers, this dessert strikes the perfect balance between decadent flavor and a health-conscious twist. At only a few points per slice, you can enjoy the elegance of red velvet without guilt.

Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Cake Layer:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (or sugar substitute)
• 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon red gel food coloring
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese (softened)
• 1/3 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or sugar substitute)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Topping:

• 1/4 cup light whipped topping
• 1 teaspoon red velvet cake crumbs for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Red Velvet Cake Layer

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the sugar, applesauce, Greek yogurt, egg, vanilla, and red food coloring until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the almond milk, until just combined.
4. Pour the red velvet batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. In another medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the Greek yogurt, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
2. Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the red velvet batter in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and the edges of the red velvet cake begin to pull away from the pan.
2. Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

Garnish and Serve

1. Once the cheesecake is fully chilled, carefully remove it from the springform pan.
2. Garnish with a dollop of light whipped topping and a sprinkle of red velvet cake crumbs, if desired.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving: 1 slice)

• Calories: ~150
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• WW Points: ~6

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Lightened-Up Decadence: Traditional red velvet cheesecake can be calorie-dense, but this version swaps out heavy ingredients for lighter alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
2. Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or just a cozy night in, this cheesecake is sure to impress.
3. Balanced Texture: The moist red velvet layer pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake, creating a dessert that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the batter for both layers, mix just until the ingredients are incorporated to maintain a light texture.
• Chill Time is Crucial: Allowing the cheesecake to chill properly ensures the layers set and the flavors meld together perfectly.
• Use a Water Bath: To avoid cracks in your cheesecake layer, consider placing the springform pan in a water bath during baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a warm cup of coffee or tea for an indulgent treat.
• Serve alongside fresh berries for added color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
• Enjoy as a guilt-free dessert after a hearty Weight Watchers-friendly dinner.

This Red Velvet Cheesecake combines indulgence and balance in a stunning dessert. With its moist red velvet base and creamy cheesecake topping, it’s a lighter take on a classic favorite that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday treat, this recipe proves that healthy choices can still be deliciously satisfying!