Introduction
Thereβs something so irresistibly charming about a cheesecake, donβt you think? Itβs that perfect balance of creamy, dreamy goodness with just the right amount of sweetness. And when you add a burst of color and a touch of fun, it goes from a simple dessert to a showstopper. Enter this Pink Velvet Oreo Cheesecake.
This cheesecake is not just a treat for the tastebuds, but itβs also a visual masterpiece. The pink velvet layer adds such a playful pop of color, while the Oreo crust provides a delicious contrast with its chocolatey crunch. Itβs the kind of dessert that makes a special occasion feel even more festive, but itβs easy enough to whip up whenever youβre craving something sweet and indulgent.
I first stumbled upon this beauty at a friendβs birthday partyβyes, I was that person who couldnβt stop raving about it! I love how versatile cheesecakes can be, but this one takes the cake (pun intended). Itβs creamy, rich, and has a little something extra with that Oreo crust and pink velvet goodness. Itβs also a great dessert to share with friends or familyβeveryone always gets so excited when they see it on the table.
The best part? Even though it looks fancy, this Pink Velvet Oreo Cheesecake is surprisingly simple to make. You donβt need any crazy kitchen skillsβjust a few ingredients, a bit of patience, and youβre all set for an unforgettable treat!
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
Okay, letβs talk about why this cheesecake is truly something special:
- Easy to make: The recipe involves simple steps that anyone can follow, even if youβre new to baking. Plus, no complicated equipment is needed.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether itβs a birthday, a holiday gathering, or a random Tuesday night, this cheesecake is always the right choice to impress your guests.
- Decadent texture: The cheesecake is rich and smooth, while the pink velvet layer adds a subtle, soft flavor and a lovely hint of sweetness.
- Fun twist: The Oreo crust isnβt just deliciousβit also adds a fun contrast to the creamy pink filling, making every bite extra enjoyable.
Plus, letβs not forget how fun it is to make something this colorful. Itβs like a dessert that doubles as a little piece of art. Itβs one of those treats that makes you feel accomplished, and trust me, your friends and family will be impressed!
Preparation Time and Servings
Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling time)
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 3 hours
Servings: 12-14 slices
Calories per serving: 350 (approx.)
Protein: 5g
Carbs: 35g
Fat: 24g
Ingredients
Hereβs everything youβll need to make this pink velvet Oreo cheesecake:
Oreo Crust:
- 24 Oreo cookies (crushed)
These form the base of our crust, giving it that delicious, chocolatey crunch we all love. - 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
Butter helps bind the crumbs together and gives the crust a rich flavor. - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Just a touch of sugar to sweeten the crust slightly.
Pink Velvet Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese is essential for the creamy texture of the cheesecake. Make sure itβs softened so it blends easily. - 1 cup granulated sugar
To add sweetness and help create that velvety smooth texture. - 3 large eggs
Eggs provide structure and richness to the filling. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Adds a touch of vanilla flavor that complements the rich cream cheese perfectly. - 1/2 cup sour cream
Sour cream adds creaminess and a subtle tang to balance out the sweetness. - 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Helps to set the cheesecake and gives it that perfect consistency. - 1 tablespoon pink food coloring
For that beautiful pink hueβadd more or less depending on how vibrant you want the color to be. - 1/2 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream gives the cheesecake that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Make the Oreo Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 325Β°F (163Β°C). Grab your food processor (or a Ziploc bag and rolling pin if you donβt have one) and crush the Oreo cookies until they turn into fine crumbs. Youβll want to measure out 2 cups of the crumbs for the crust.In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreos, melted butter, and sugar. Stir everything together until the crumbs are well-coated in butter. You should have a mixture that looks like wet sand.Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure itβs evenly distributed and tightly packed. You can use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove it and set it aside to cool. - Make the Cheesecake Filling:
While the crust is cooling, letβs get started on the cheesecake filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until itβs smooth and creamy (about 1-2 minutes). Add the sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour, and beat until everything is well combined. Finally, stir in the pink food coloring. Donβt be afraid to go a little heavy-handed with itβitβs the color that makes this cheesecake stand out! - Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake batter onto the cooled Oreo crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Gently tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles.Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit in the oven for an additional hour. This will help prevent cracking as it cools. - Chill the Cheesecake:
After the cheesecake has cooled for an hour in the oven, remove it and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the texture firm up.
How to Serve:
This Pink Velvet Oreo Cheesecake is absolutely perfect as-is, but if you want to get a little extra with the presentation, here are some serving suggestions:
- Top with whipped cream: Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top, or pipe it around the edges for a more elegant look.
- Garnish with crushed Oreos: For an extra touch of Oreo goodness, sprinkle some crushed Oreos on top before serving.
- Serve with fresh berries: A few fresh strawberries or raspberries add a nice balance of tartness to the rich cheesecake.
- Coffee or dessert wine: Pair this cheesecake with a warm cup of coffee or a dessert wine like Moscato for an added treat.
Additional Tips
- Use softened cream cheese: If the cream cheese is too cold, it wonβt blend well, and youβll end up with a lumpy cheesecake filling. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before you start.
- Donβt overmix: Be careful not to overbeat the batter once the eggs are added. Overmixing can lead to cracks in the cheesecake later on.
- Check for doneness: The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it chills in the fridge.
- Avoid cracks: To prevent cracks in your cheesecake, avoid opening the oven door too often while it bakes. Also, letting it cool slowly in the oven after baking helps with cracking.
- Chill overnight: For the best texture and flavor, let the cheesecake chill overnight. It helps the flavors develop and ensures itβs firm enough to slice cleanly.
Recipe Variations:
- Gluten-Free Option:
To make this cheesecake gluten-free, simply swap out the regular Oreos for gluten-free Oreos. You can also use almond flour or gluten-free cookies for the crust. - Chocolate Chip Add-Ins:
If you want to add a little extra something, fold in some mini chocolate chips into the cheesecake batter before baking. It adds a nice texture contrast and extra sweetness. - Strawberry Swirl:
For a fruity twist, swirl some strawberry jam or pureed strawberries into the cheesecake batter before baking. It will add a fresh, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
Freezing and Storage:
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 5 days. The cheesecake tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Freezing: You can freeze slices of cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. To thaw, just place in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.
Special Equipment:
- Springform Pan: This is essential for making sure your cheesecake comes out of the pan without any hassle. A springform pan allows the cheesecake to easily release from the sides.
- Electric Mixer: Youβll need a good electric mixer to beat the cream cheese and eggs together for a smooth filling.
FAQ Section:
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes! This cheesecake can be made a day or two ahead. In fact, chilling it overnight actually enhances the flavors!
Can I use store-bought Oreo crumbs for the crust?
Sure! If youβre in a pinch, store-bought Oreo crumbs will work just as well as crushing your own cookies.
How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
Let the cheesecake cool slowly in the oven with the door ajar for an hour. Avoid sudden temperature changes, as they can cause cracks.
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- Total Time: 4 hours
Ingredients
For the Oreo Crust:
- 24 Oreo cookies (crushed)
These form the base of our crust, giving it that delicious, chocolatey crunch we all love. - 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
Butter helps bind the crumbs together and gives the crust a rich flavor. - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Just a touch of sugar to sweeten the crust slightly.
For the Pink Velvet Cheesecake Filling:
- 3 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese is essential for the creamy texture of the cheesecake. Make sure itβs softened so it blends easily. - 1 cup granulated sugar
To add sweetness and help create that velvety smooth texture. - 3 large eggs
Eggs provide structure and richness to the filling. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Adds a touch of vanilla flavor that complements the rich cream cheese perfectly. - 1/2 cup sour cream
Sour cream adds creaminess and a subtle tang to balance out the sweetness. - 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Helps to set the cheesecake and gives it that perfect consistency. - 1 tablespoon pink food coloring
For that beautiful pink hueβadd more or less depending on how vibrant you want the color to be. - 1/2 cup heavy cream
Heavy cream gives the cheesecake that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Instructions
- Make the Oreo Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 325Β°F (163Β°C). Grab your food processor (or a Ziploc bag and rolling pin if you donβt have one) and crush the Oreo cookies until they turn into fine crumbs. Youβll want to measure out 2 cups of the crumbs for the crust.In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreos, melted butter, and sugar. Stir everything together until the crumbs are well-coated in butter. You should have a mixture that looks like wet sand.
Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, making sure itβs evenly distributed and tightly packed. You can use the back of a spoon to press it down firmly. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove it and set it aside to cool.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
While the crust is cooling, letβs get started on the cheesecake filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until itβs smooth and creamy (about 1-2 minutes). Add the sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and flour, and beat until everything is well combined. Finally, stir in the pink food coloring. Donβt be afraid to go a little heavy-handed with itβitβs the color that makes this cheesecake stand out!
- Assemble the Cheesecake:
Pour the cheesecake batter onto the cooled Oreo crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Gently tap the pan on the counter to remove any air bubbles.Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake sit in the oven for an additional hour. This will help prevent cracking as it cools.
- Chill the Cheesecake:
After the cheesecake has cooled for an hour in the oven, remove it and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, cover the cheesecake with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the texture firm up.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 14
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 5g
Conclusion:
This Pink Velvet Oreo Cheesecake is a crowd-pleaser thatβs sure to wow everyone at your next gathering. Whether youβre celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this cheesecake is the perfect choice. Iβd love to hear how yours turns out, so make sure to tag me on Instagram or drop a comment below! Enjoy every creamy, decadent bite!