Red Velvet Cheesecake

Ingredients and Weight:

For the Crust: * Red velvet cake crumbs: 1 cup (100g) * Melted unsalted butter: 1/4 cup (60g)

For the Cheesecake Filling: * Cream cheese, softened: 16 ounces (454g) * Sugar: 1 cup (200g) * Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (5ml) * Eggs: 4 large * Sour cream: 16 ounces (454g) * Red food coloring: 1-2 teaspoons (as desired)

For the Chocolate Ganache: * Semi-sweet chocolate chips: 8 ounces (227g) * Heavy cream: 1 cup (240ml)

Preparation Time:

• 2 hours total (includes chilling time)

Cooking Time:

• 60-75 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Intermediate)

Preparation Method Steps:

For the Crust: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Combine red velvet cake crumbs and melted butter in a medium bowl. Press into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. 3. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until set. Let cool completely.

For the Cheesecake Filling: 1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. 2. Add vanilla extract and beat well. 3. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. 4. Stir in sour cream and red food coloring, if desired. 5. Pour cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. 6. Bake for 60-75 minutes, until the center is set and only slightly wobbly. 7. Let cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

For the Chocolate Ganache: 1. Place chocolate chips in a medium bowl. 2. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until just boiling. 3. Pour hot cream over chocolate chips and let sit for 5 minutes. 4. Whisk until chocolate is melted and smooth.

To Assemble: 1. Pour chocolate ganache over the chilled cheesecake. 2. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 600 per slice (1/8 of cheesecake)
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 20g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and decadent cheesecake with a rich chocolate flavor
• Bright red velvet color and moist texture
• Perfect dessert for special occasions

User Comments:

• "This cheesecake is the best I've ever had! The red velvet crust is a delicious twist on a classic."
• "The chocolate ganache adds the perfect finishing touch to this already amazing dessert."
• "This cheesecake is so easy to make but looks like it came from a professional bakery."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use high-quality cream cheese for the best flavor.
• Do not overmix the cheesecake filling, as this can lead to a dense texture.
• Let the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating to prevent cracking.
• The cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.