Name: Red Velvet Cheesecake Bars: A Delightful Dessert Recipe!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons red food coloring; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cheesecake layer)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction to Red Velvet Cheesecake Bars

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something special in the kitchen. That’s why I absolutely adore these red velvet cheesecake bars. They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful fusion of rich red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake that will impress your loved ones without taking hours to prepare. Whether it’s a last-minute gathering or a cozy family night, these bars are the perfect solution. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a go-to dessert in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cheesecake Bars

These red velvet cheesecake bars are a dream come true for busy cooks like us! They’re quick to make, taking just about 55 minutes from start to finish. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, with the rich cocoa and creamy cheesecake dancing on your taste buds. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or a simple family dessert night. You’ll love how easy they are to whip up!

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cheesecake Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful red velvet cheesecake bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your bars, providing structure and texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! It balances the rich flavors of the cocoa and cheesecake.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: This adds that deep chocolate flavor, making your bars decadent.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps your bars rise and become fluffy.
Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure a light texture.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop!
Vegetable oil: This keeps your bars moist and tender, giving them that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Buttermilk: Adds a tangy flavor and helps create a soft crumb.
Large eggs: They bind everything together and add richness.
Red food coloring: This is what gives your bars that stunning red hue, making them visually appealing.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, it brings creaminess and a slight tang.
Powdered sugar: This sweetens the cheesecake layer without the graininess of granulated sugar.
Vanilla extract (for cheesecake layer): Just like before, it enhances the flavor of the cream cheese.

For those who want to get creative, consider adding chocolate chips for extra texture or using a gluten-free flour blend if you need a gluten-free option. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Bars

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these scrumptious red velvet cheesecake bars. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for even baking. While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like to use a bit of cooking spray or butter to ensure nothing sticks. Trust me, you want those bars to come out perfectly!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mixture is the foundation of your bars. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. The cocoa powder will give your bars that rich chocolate flavor!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. This step adds moisture and flavor to your batter. The vibrant red color will make your bars visually stunning, so don’t skip the food coloring!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, gently mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our bars to be tender and fluffy. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Then, add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. This creamy filling is what makes these bars so special!

Step 6: Layer the Mixtures

Pour half of the red velvet batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly. Next, dollop the cheesecake mixture over the red velvet layer. Finally, pour the remaining red velvet batter on top. Use a knife to swirl the layers together for a beautiful marbled effect. It’s like painting with dessert!

Step 7: Bake

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This is where the magic happens, and your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely. This helps set the layers, making it easier to cut into bars. After cooling, slice them up and serve. Enjoy the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they take their first bite!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Don’t skip the swirling step; it creates a beautiful marbled effect.
Check for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting for clean edges.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Equipment Needed

9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for these bars; you can use a glass or metal pan.
Mixing bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls will do the trick.
Whisk: Essential for mixing; a fork can work in a pinch.
Spatula: Great for spreading the batter evenly; a spoon can also suffice.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key; use a kitchen scale for precision if you have one.

Variations

Chocolate Chip Red Velvet Cheesecake Bars: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the red velvet batter for an extra chocolatey twist.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the cheesecake layer for a delightful crunch.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.
Lower Sugar Version: Use a sugar substitute in place of granulated and powdered sugar for a lighter treat.
Vegan Adaptation: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these red velvet cheesecake bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve with fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and freshness.
Drizzle with chocolate or cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent touch.
Present on a decorative platter to impress your guests.

FAQs about Red Velvet Cheesecake Bars

As you embark on your journey to create these delightful red velvet cheesecake bars, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with my answers to help you out!

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These red velvet cheesecake bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They actually taste even better after chilling!

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute. Just mix one cup of milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and you’re good to go!

How do I store leftovers?

To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!

Can I freeze these bars?

red velvet cheesecake bars! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!

What’s the best way to cut these bars?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it with a damp cloth between cuts. This helps prevent the cheesecake layer from sticking to the knife, giving you those perfect, beautiful bars!

Final Thoughts

Making these red velvet cheesecake bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with your loved ones. The joy of watching their faces light up with each bite is priceless. This recipe is a wonderful way to bring a little indulgence into your busy life without the fuss. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long day, these bars are sure to bring smiles all around. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delightful flavors that come together in this scrumptious dessert!

Red Velvet Cheesecake Bars: A Delightful Dessert Recipe!

Print Recipe

Red Velvet Cheesecake Bars are a delicious dessert that combines the rich flavors of red velvet cake with creamy cheesecake, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

Author: Nada
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12-16 bars 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cheesecake layer)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, and vanilla extract.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Pour half of the red velvet batter into the prepared pan, then spread the cheesecake mixture over it.
Top with the remaining red velvet batter and swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool before cutting into bars and serving.