24 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon red gel food coloring
Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9-inch springform pan. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until the mixture is completely smooth and fluffy. It is important to use room temperature cream cheese to avoid any lumps. Lower the mixer speed and add the eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined after each addition to avoid adding too much air to the batter.
Stir in the sour cream, unsweetened cocoa powder, alcohol-free vanilla extract, and lemon juice until well incorporated. Finally, add the red gel food coloring and mix until the batter reaches a vibrant, uniform red color. Using gel coloring is recommended as it provides a deeper hue without changing the consistency of the batter.
Pour the red velvet filling over the cooled Oreo crust and some the top with a spatula. Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. For the best results, place a pan of water on the bottom rack to create steam while baking.
Turn off the oven and crack the door open, allowing the cheesecake to cool slowly inside for about an hour. This helps prevent cracks from forming on the surface. Once cooled to room temperature, wrap the pan in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop and the texture to firm up.
