A Sweet Tradition
Hello, friends! I’m thrilled to share a favorite at Essence Recipes. My mom’s kitchen taught me food is love. This Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake captures that spirit. It mixes red velvet cake, creamy cheesecake, and toasty pecans. It suits any special day.
I bake this often. I tweak it to perfection. The red velvet tastes mildly of cocoa. The cheesecake feels smooth and rich. Pecans add a buttery crunch. Essence Recipes values heartfelt meals. This dessert brings that joy.
We use quality ingredients. We keep cooking simple. I guide new and seasoned bakers alike. Let’s make this together. Your family will love it!
Table of Contents
A Quick Look
Let’s keep the excitement going. Need a fast overview? I’ve got you covered. This Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake is a showstopper. It combines moist red velvet cake, creamy cheesecake, and toasty pecans. It’s ideal for any celebration.
Prep takes 30 minutes. Bake it for about 70 minutes. Cool and chill for a few hours. Use flour, cream cheese, pecans, and pantry staples. A springform pan simplifies the process.
It serves 12 guests. Slice it thin, it’s rich. Serve at room temperature for the best taste. Pair with coffee or whipped cream. Essence Recipes makes every moment special.
Curious for more? I share the full recipe next. Let’s create this masterpiece together!
Ingredients: Your Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake Essentials
Let’s get ready to bake. This Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake uses wholesome ingredients. I list them clearly below. I also share context, tips, substitutions, and where to find the best items. Quality matters at Essence Recipes.
Red Velvet Base
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- Pinch of salt
Fresh baking soda keeps the cake light. No buttermilk? Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon white vinegar. Let it sit 5 minutes. Use natural cocoa powder for authentic flavor. Find it at local grocery stores.
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 ounces cream cheese
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.25 cup sour cream
Soften cream cheese at room temperature. It blends easily. Swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt if you prefer. Both give a creamy tang. Buy full-fat cream cheese from trusted brands for richness.
Butter Pecan Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Pinch of cinnamon
Toast pecans lightly in a pan. It enhances their nutty taste. Fresh pecans from farmers’ markets shine. Avoid stale nuts. Use real butter for the best flavor.
Shop at reliable grocery stores or local markets. Check labels for freshness. Essence Recipes believes in pure ingredients. These create a dessert you’ll cherish. Ready to start baking? I guide you next!
How to Make Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake
Now, let’s bake this Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake. Follow these steps. I share vivid details and pro tips from years of baking. Grab your ingredients. Let’s create magic.
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper. This prevents sticking. Wrap the pan’s base with foil. It protects against leaks in a water bath.
Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Base
Mix flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Whisk egg, buttermilk, oil, vanilla, and red food coloring in another. Combine both mixtures. Stir until smooth. The batter smells faintly of cocoa. Pour it into the pan. Bake for 20 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time. Mix in vanilla and sour cream. The mix looks velvety. Spread it over the cooled red velvet base. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 4: Bake in a Water Bath
Place the pan in a larger roasting pan. Add hot water halfway up the sides. Bake for 50 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly. Turn off the oven. Crack the door. Let it sit for 1 hour. This prevents cracks.
Step 5: Add Butter Pecan Topping
Mix toasted pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Sprinkle over the chilled cheesecake. The nutty aroma fills the kitchen. Chill for 4 hours.
Safety Tip:
Cool the cheesecake slowly to avoid cracks. Store it in the fridge. Consume within 5 days. Essence Recipes loves foolproof steps. Your dessert is almost ready!
Pro Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas
Let’s elevate your Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake. I share expert tips, creative twists, and serving ideas. These reflect Essence Recipes’ love for joyful, heartfelt cooking.
Pro Tips
Use room-temperature ingredients. They blend smoothly. Check your oven temperature with a thermometer. It ensures even baking. Don’t skip the water bath. It keeps the cheesecake creamy. Cut clean slices with a hot knife. Dip it in warm water first. I’ve baked dozens of cheesecakes. These tricks work every time.
Variations
Try a chocolate twist. Add 0.25 cup melted dark chocolate to the cheesecake layer. It deepens the flavor. Want a nut swap? Use walnuts instead of pecans. Toast them for the same crunch. For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese. The texture stays rich. Essence Recipes encourages creativity. Make it your own.
Want another velvet cake? Try our Black Velvet Cake Recipe for a chocolatey twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve at room temperature. It brings out the creamy texture. Add a dollop of whipped cream. It balances the richness. Pair with hot coffee or chai tea. The warm drink complements the nutty topping. For holidays, garnish with fresh berries. They add a pop of color. Small slices satisfy. This dessert is indulgent.
These ideas come from years of experimenting. They make your cheesecake unforgettable. Essence Recipes believes in food that sparks joy. Share this treat with loved ones. They’ll feel the love.
Nutritional Highlights and Health Benefits
Let’s talk nutrition. This Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake is a treat. I share its nutritional profile and health benefits. Essence Recipes values mindful indulgence. Enjoy this dessert with balance.
Nutritional Breakdown
A 1/12 slice (about 120 grams) has roughly 450 calories. It contains 30 grams of fat, 40 grams of carbohydrates, and 7 grams of protein. Sugars total around 28 grams. Pecans add fiber, about 1 gram per slice. Cream cheese provides calcium. Eggs offer protein. These numbers come from standard ingredient data. Portion control is key. Small slices satisfy.
Health Benefits
Pecans are nutrient-rich. They contain healthy fats, like monounsaturated fats, which support heart health. Studies show nuts may lower bad cholesterol. Pecans also have antioxidants, like vitamin E, which fight inflammation. Cream cheese and eggs provide protein. This supports muscle health. Cocoa powder in the red velvet base has flavonoids. These may improve blood flow. Enjoy this dessert as part of a balanced diet.
Health Considerations
This is a rich dessert. Limit portions if watching sugar or fat intake. Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option. It cuts calories but keeps flavor. Check for nut allergies before serving. Store leftovers in the fridge. Eat within 5 days for safety. Essence Recipes cares about your well-being. We share accurate info to guide you.
Indulge thoughtfully. This cheesecake brings joy to special moments. Balance it with wholesome meals. Your body and heart will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake
You might have questions about this Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake. I answer three common ones. These come from my years of baking and reader feedback. Essence Recipes loves helping you succeed.
Can I make this cheesecake nut-free?
Yes, you can. Skip the pecan topping. Replace it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or whipped cream. The dessert stays delicious. Check for nut allergies before serving. Use a nut-free kitchen to avoid cross-contamination. This keeps everyone safe. I’ve tested this version. It’s still a crowd-pleaser.
How do I prevent cracks in the cheesecake?
Cracks happen from quick temperature changes. Use a water bath. It keeps the heat gentle. Don’t overmix the batter. Air bubbles cause cracks. Cool the cheesecake slowly in the oven with the door cracked. I’ve baked countless cheesecakes. These steps work. Your cheesecake will look smooth and professional.
Can I freeze this cheesecake?
Absolutely. Wrap the cooled cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap. Add a layer of foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. Don’t freeze with the pecan topping. Add it fresh for the best texture. This method preserves flavor. Essence Recipes ensures food safety with proper storage.
Got more questions? Reach out. I love hearing from you. Let’s keep the baking joy alive!
Share Your Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake Story
Your turn to shine! This Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake is more than a recipe. It’s a moment to connect. I love hearing how you make it yours. Essence Recipes thrives on shared joy.
Try this Southern dessert at your next gathering. Notice the smiles it brings. Snap a photo of your creation. Post it on social media. Tag Essence Recipes. I’ll share my favorites on our page. Your cheesecake might inspire others.
Have a special twist? Maybe you added a berry glaze. Or swapped pecans for almonds. Share your ideas in the comments. I read every one. Your creativity fuels our community. It’s how we grow.
Baking is personal. I’ve poured years into perfecting recipes. Your stories make it worthwhile. Tell us about your experience. Did your family love it? Was it a holiday hit? Every tale matters.
Join our Essence Recipes family. Share your photos and tips. Let’s celebrate food together. Your kitchen is part of our story. Make this creamy cheesecake. and spread the love!
Wrapping Up with Love
What a journey! This Butter Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake brings warmth to any table. I hope you feel the love in every bite. Essence Recipes is about creating memories. This dessert does just that.
I’ve shared my heart through this recipe. Years of baking shaped it. Now, it’s yours to enjoy. Make it for someone special. Watch their eyes light up. Food connects us all.
Come back soon. Check our blog for new ideas. Stay inspired. Your kitchen is a place of joy. Let’s keep cooking together. Thank you for being here!