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This red velvet cheesecake balls recipe transforms classic cake and cheesecake into irresistible bite-sized treats. The vibrant red cake crumbs envelope a creamy cheesecake center, creating a delightful dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious.
I first made these for my daughter's Valentine's Day party, and they were such a hit that they've become our go-to dessert for every celebration. The way the children's eyes light up when they see these bright red treats makes all the effort worthwhile.
Ingredients
- Red velvet cake mix: creates the distinctive color and flavor that makes these treats instantly recognizable
- Water: hydrates the cake mix for the perfect texture
- Vegetable oil: adds moisture to ensure your cake crumbles properly
- Eggs: bind the cake ingredients together for the ideal consistency
- Cream cheese: provides the rich, tangy base for the filling, use full-fat for best results
- Confectioners sugar: sweetens the filling without the grittiness of granulated sugar
- Heavy cream: helps achieve that light, whipped texture in the filling
- Vanilla extract: enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm aromatic notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the cake:
- Mix the red velvet cake mix with water, vegetable oil, and eggs according to package directions. Pour into a 9x13 baking pan or jelly roll pan and bake at 350°F following box instructions. Allow to cool completely before handling. The cake needs to be completely cool to crumble properly without becoming gummy.
- Create the cake crumbs:
- Break the cooled cake into tiny, uniform pieces using your hands or a fork. The smaller and more consistent your crumbs, the more professional your finished balls will look. Set these aside while you prepare the filling.
- Make the cheesecake filling:
- Beat the softened cream cheese and confectioners sugar in a stand mixer until completely smooth with no lumps. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then continue mixing until the mixture forms stiff peaks. The filling should be firm enough to hold its shape when scooped.
- Form the cheesecake balls:
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Using a small cookie scoop, portion the cream cheese mixture into uniform balls and place them on the prepared sheet. Chill in the freezer for one hour to set. Freezing is crucial as it makes the soft cheesecake filling firm enough to handle.
- Coat with cake crumbs:
- Remove the chilled cheesecake balls from the freezer and gently roll each one in the red velvet cake crumbs, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs adhere completely. Work quickly so the balls don't become too soft.
- Chill until serving:
- Return the finished cake balls to the refrigerator until ready to serve. They need at least 30 minutes to set properly after coating.
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I absolutely adore the cream cheese filling in this recipe. My grandmother always made cheesecake for special occasions, and the familiar tangy sweetness of these balls brings back wonderful memories of holidays spent in her kitchen. The way the red velvet complements the filling is truly magical.
Storage Instructions
These red velvet cheesecake balls must be refrigerated in an airtight container due to the cream cheese filling. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days when properly stored. For longer storage, you can freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
Creative Variations
The basic recipe serves as a wonderful canvas for customization. Try adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the cheesecake filling for a bright citrus note. White chocolate lovers can dip the finished balls in melted white chocolate instead of cake crumbs for an extra layer of sweetness. During the holidays, incorporate a quarter teaspoon of peppermint extract to the filling for a festive twist that pairs beautifully with the red color.
Perfect Pairings
Serve these red velvet cheesecake balls alongside fresh berries for a beautiful contrast in both flavor and appearance. A light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar just before serving adds an elegant touch. For a decadent dessert table, pair them with chocolate covered strawberries and champagne flutes filled with chocolate mousse to create an impressive spread that guests will remember.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use homemade red velvet cake for this dessert?
Yes, you can prepare red velvet cake from scratch instead of using a boxed mix. Just ensure it crumbles easily for coating the balls.
- → Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely! These cheesecake balls can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.
- → What should I do if the cream cheese mixture is too soft?
If the mixture is too soft, let it chill in the freezer for a short time before rolling into balls to make handling easier.
- → Can I use a different cake flavor?
Yes, you can substitute the red velvet cake with other flavors, like chocolate or vanilla, for a different twist.
- → What toppings can I add to these balls?
You can drizzle melted chocolate, add sprinkles, or coat them in crushed cookies for extra decoration and flavor.