Vampire Bite Red Velvet Cheesecake (Printer-Friendly Version)

Decadent red velvet cheesecake swirled with chocolate and a dramatic drizzle for festive occasions.

# Required Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 180 g chocolate cookie crumbs
02 - 60 ml melted butter

→ Cheesecake Filling

03 - 680 g cream cheese, softened
04 - 200 g granulated sugar
05 - 3 large eggs
06 - 5 ml vanilla extract
07 - 25 g unsweetened cocoa powder
08 - Red gel food coloring, as needed

→ Topping

09 - 120 ml dark chocolate sauce

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 160°C. Lightly grease a 23 cm springform pan to prevent sticking.
02 - Combine chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated. Press firmly into the base of the prepared pan to create an even layer.
03 - In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and a few drops of red gel food coloring together until smooth and uniform in color.
04 - Add eggs, one at a time, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, beating until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
05 - Pour the batter over the prepared crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake for 50-55 minutes, until edges are set but center is slightly wobbly.
06 - Remove from oven and allow cheesecake to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer to refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 4 hours or until thoroughly set.
07 - Before serving, drizzle generously with dark chocolate sauce for a dramatic effect. Slice and present this eerie, red velvet delight.

# Handy Cooking Tips:

01 - For vivid color, add food coloring gradually until the desired red hue is achieved.
02 - Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a creamy filling without lumps.