Ingredients and Weight:
For the Crust:
* All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups (180 g)
* Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g)
* Unsweetened cocoa powder: 1/4 cup (25 g)
* Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
* Unsalted butter, cold and cubed: 1/2 cup (113 g)
For the Red Velvet Cheesecake Layer:
* Cream cheese, softened: 16 ounces (454 g)
* Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
* Eggs: 2 large
* Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
* Red food coloring: 2-3 drops
* Buttermilk: 1 cup (237 ml)
For the Swirl Topping:
* Cream cheese, softened: 4 ounces (113 g)
* Sour cream: 1/2 cup (120 g)
* Vanilla extract: 1/4 teaspoon
* Powdered sugar: 1/4 cup (50 g)
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Difficulty Level: 3 (Medium)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- For the Crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Add the butter and use your hands to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crumbs into the prepared baking pan and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- For the Red Velvet Cheesecake Layer: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring. Gradually add the buttermilk and mix until just combined.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
- For the Swirl Topping: In a small bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sour cream, vanilla, and powdered sugar until smooth. Dollop spoonfuls of the swirl topping over the cheesecake batter and swirl with a knife.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Nutritional Information:
Per slice (1/8 of the recipe):
* Calories: 450
* Fat: 25 g (38% DV)
* Saturated Fat: 15 g (75% DV)
* Cholesterol: 90 mg (30% DV)
* Sodium: 220 mg (9% DV)
* Carbohydrates: 45 g (15% DV)
* Protein: 15 g (30% DV)
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and creamy red velvet cheesecake with a gooey swirl topping.
- Perfect for special occasions or as an indulgent dessert.
- Easy to slice and serve, making it ideal for parties or large gatherings.
User Comments:
- "These cheesecake bars are the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess."
- "The red velvet swirl is such a fun and eye-catching touch."
- "The crust is the perfect complement to the creamy cheesecake."
- "I love that these bars can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy schedules."
- "I've made this dessert for several parties and it's always a hit!"
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use high-quality cream cheese for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure the butter is cold before adding it to the crust mixture.
- Don't overmix the cheesecake batter, as this will result in a dense texture.
- Let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating to prevent cracking.
- Serve the cheesecake bars with your favorite fruit or whipped cream for an extra decadent treat.
