Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls

Introduction

Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls are a fun and indulgent dessert that combines the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with the creamy, tangy goodness of cheesecake, all in a convenient bite-sized treat. Coated in smooth white or dark chocolate, these little dessert balls are a showstopper at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, celebrating a special event, or just treating yourself, they’re the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth in a fun, flavorful way.

The first time I made these, I was amazed at how easy they were to put together and how quickly they disappeared! The combination of the soft, moist red velvet cake and the smooth, tangy cheesecake filling creates the perfect contrast of flavors. Rolling them in chocolate adds that extra bit of decadence that makes them even more irresistible. I’ve made them for family gatherings, birthdays, and even just for a cozy night in, and they’ve always been a huge hit.

What I love about Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls is how they balance richness with lightness. The cheesecake filling adds a delightful tang, while the red velvet cake gives it a soft, moist texture that’s simply divine. Plus, they’re so easy to customize—whether you choose to coat them in white or dark chocolate, or even drizzle them with a little extra chocolate for added flair, they’re bound to impress. These bites of indulgence are guaranteed to become a favorite at any celebration or sweet craving!

Perfect for:

• Holiday parties
• Birthdays and special events
• Potlucks
• Chocolate lovers
• Dessert platters

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls

Here’s why Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls will quickly become your new favorite dessert:

• Decadent Flavors: The combination of tangy cheesecake filling and rich red velvet cake offers a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.
• Easy to Make: These bite-sized treats come together quickly and require minimal effort, making them an ideal choice for busy bakers.
• Perfectly Bite-Sized: These cheesecake balls are easy to pop into your mouth, making them a crowd-pleaser at any party or gathering.
• Customizable Coatings: Whether you prefer white chocolate, dark chocolate, or sprinkles, you can customize the coating to suit your taste and occasion.
• Make-Ahead Dessert: Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making them convenient for busy schedules.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling time)
• Preparation Time: 45 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 18-20 balls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls:

• 1 box red velvet cake mix (or 1 batch homemade red velvet cake)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or shortening (for chocolate coating)
• Red velvet cake crumbs (optional, for decoration)

Ingredient Highlights

• Red Velvet Cake Mix: While you can make homemade red velvet cake, using a box mix saves time and gives the cake a moist, soft texture that’s perfect for these cheesecake balls.
• Cream Cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy filling that complements the sweetness of the red velvet cake, making each bite a perfect balance of flavors.
• White Chocolate Chips or Dark Chocolate Chips: Used to coat the cheesecake balls, these chocolates add a smooth, glossy finish and sweetness.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling and helps bind it together, ensuring the mixture holds its shape when rolled into balls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls:

Prepare the Red Velvet Cake:

1. Bake the Cake: Prepare the red velvet cake mix according to the package instructions, using the necessary ingredients (water, oil, eggs). Bake in a 9×13-inch baking pan. Allow the cake to cool completely.
2. Crumble the Cake: Once the cake is cool, crumble it into small pieces using your hands or a fork. Set aside.

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

3. Mix Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
4. Combine Cake and Filling: Add the crumbled red velvet cake to the cream cheese mixture. Stir gently until the cake crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture holds together.
5. Shape the Balls: Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into smooth balls using your hands. Place the formed balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Coat the Cheesecake Balls:

6. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips (or dark chocolate chips) with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or shortening. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is smooth and completely melted.
7. Dip the Balls in Chocolate: Using a fork or toothpick, dip each cheesecake ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Tap the fork gently to remove any excess chocolate.
8. Set the Coated Balls: Place the chocolate-coated cheesecake balls back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and let the chocolate harden. You can speed up the process by refrigerating them for about 10 minutes.

Decorate and Serve:

9. Optional Decoration: For a festive touch, sprinkle red velvet cake crumbs or sprinkles on top of the chocolate coating before it hardens completely.
10. Serve: Once the chocolate has set, serve the cheesecake balls as a delicious and easy-to-eat treat for your guests.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls

Here are 10 ways to serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls:

• As a Party Treat: Serve them on a platter as an easy, bite-sized treat for guests to grab and enjoy.
• With Hot Chocolate or Coffee: Pair with a warm beverage for a cozy dessert experience.
• For a Red-Themed Dessert Table: Perfect for Valentine’s Day or holiday parties, these red velvet cheesecake balls are eye-catching and festive.
• With Ice Cream: Place a cheesecake ball atop a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• On a Dessert Skewer: Thread cheesecake balls onto a skewer with other bite-sized desserts like fruit or marshmallows for a fun dessert display.
• For a Potluck: These cheesecake balls are easy to transport and share at potlucks or picnics.
• With a Scoop of Whipped Cream: Top each cheesecake ball with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for added decadence.
• In Mini Dessert Cups: Serve individual cheesecake balls in mini dessert cups, layered with extra chocolate and cake crumbs.
• With Fresh Fruit: Pair with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a fruity contrast to the sweet richness.
• As Part of a Dessert Buffet: These cheesecake balls make a great addition to a dessert buffet at weddings or large gatherings.

Additional Tips for Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls

Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls:

• Ensure the Cake is Completely Cool: Make sure the red velvet cake is fully cooled before crumbling it into the cream cheese mixture. If the cake is too warm, the mixture will become too soft.
• Roll the Balls Firmly: When rolling the cheesecake balls, make sure they are compact to help them hold their shape during the coating process.
• Let the Chocolate Set: After coating the cheesecake balls in chocolate, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before placing them in the fridge to set, preventing them from becoming too soft.
• Use Good Quality Chocolate: The chocolate coating makes a big difference in the flavor, so opt for high-quality white or dark chocolate for the best results.
• Make Extra: These cheesecake balls are so delicious, it’s always a good idea to make a little extra, as they tend to disappear quickly.

Recipe Variations for Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls

Here are 10 variations you can try for Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls:

• Chocolate-Coated Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls: Use dark or milk chocolate to coat the cheesecake balls for a rich, chocolaty twist.
• Mini Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes: Instead of balls, bake mini red velvet cheesecakes in cupcake liners and top with a swirl of cream cheese frosting.
• Peanut Butter Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls: Add a dollop of peanut butter to the cream cheese mixture for a savory, nutty flavor.
• Coconut Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls: Roll the finished cheesecake balls in shredded coconut for a tropical touch.
• Caramel Drizzle Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls: Drizzle caramel sauce over the chocolate coating for a sweet contrast.
• Spiced Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the cream cheese filling for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Red Velvet Cheesecake Truffles: Roll the cheesecake balls in crushed nuts like almonds or pecans for extra texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls: Use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix for a gluten-free variation of these delicious balls.
• Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Pops: Instead of balls, dip the cheesecake mixture onto sticks for an easier-to-handle dessert.
• Mint Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls: Add a hint of mint extract to the cheesecake filling for a refreshing twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls can be frozen. After dipping them in chocolate, place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Storage: Store the cheesecake balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Make sure they’re well-covered to maintain freshness.

Special Equipment for Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls

Here are some special equipment items to help you make Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls:

• Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: For quickly mixing the cream cheese and powdered sugar into a smooth, creamy filling.
• Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper makes it easy to place and remove the cheesecake balls while they chill.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: For melting the chocolate without burning it.
• Fork or Toothpicks: To help dip and coat the cheesecake balls in melted chocolate without making a mess.
• Small Ice Cream Scoop: An ice cream scoop helps portion the cheesecake mixture evenly, making it easier to roll into uniform balls.

FAQ Section for Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls

1. Can I use a homemade red velvet cake instead of a cake mix?
   Yes, homemade red velvet cake works perfectly in this recipe, though you’ll need to bake and crumble the cake before mixing it with the cream cheese filling.
2. What other types of chocolate can I use for coating?
   You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate. You can also experiment with flavored chocolate, such as caramel or mocha.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make these cheesecake balls a day ahead and store them in the fridge until ready to serve.
4. How long will these cheesecake balls stay fresh?
   They will stay fresh for about 1 week when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
5. Can I make these without the cream cheese?
   Cream cheese is a key ingredient in creating the cheesecake filling, but you could substitute it with mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free alternative if needed.

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Conclusion

Red Velvet Cheesecake Ball are the ultimate indulgence, combining the rich flavors of red velvet cake with the creamy texture of cheesecake. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers. Their vibrant red color and decadent taste make them an eye-catching and irresistible dessert that everyone will love.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily customize the filling by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, or you can even experiment with different cake flavors. Whether you’re preparing them for a special event or just as a sweet snack, these cheesecake balls are sure to be a hit at your next celebration.

I can’t wait to see how your Red Velvet Cheesecake Balls turn out! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your creative spin on these delicious treats! Feel free to leave a comment with any tips or variations you tried. Enjoy!