Easy Vampire Bite Caramel Pecan Red Velvet Cheesecake
A spooky yet decadent cheesecake with red velvet base, caramel drizzle, and pecan crunch. Perfect for Halloween parties.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Red Velvet Crust:
2 cups red velvet cake crumbs (from baked cake or cupcakes)
⅓ cup melted butter
2 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
3 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup heavy cream
For the Caramel Pecan Topping:
¾ cup brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup heavy cream
Pinch of salt
1 cup chopped pecans
For the Vampire “Bite” Effect:
¼ cup raspberry or cherry preserves (strained for a smooth “blood”)
Optional: red gel food coloring for dramatic effect
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line or grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Make the crust: Combine red velvet crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into bottom of pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool.
Make the cheesecake filling: Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla, sour cream, and heavy cream. Mix just until smooth.
Pour cheesecake batter over crust and smooth the top.
Bake in a water bath for 50–60 minutes, or until center is set but slightly jiggly. Turn off oven, crack the door, and let cool inside for 1 hour.
Chill cheesecake in refrigerator for at least 4–6 hours or overnight.
Make caramel pecan topping: In a saucepan, heat butter and brown sugar until melted. Add heavy cream and salt; simmer for 2–3 minutes. Stir in pecans. Let cool slightly, then pour over chilled cheesecake.
Add vampire bites: Use a straw or knife to poke 2–3 “fang holes” in the top. Fill with raspberry preserves for a bloody effect. Optionally, add streaks or drips for drama.
Serve chilled and frightfully delicious!
Notes
Use leftover red velvet cake or cupcakes for the crust.
Cheesecake can be made a day ahead and topped just before serving.
Raspberry preserves create the perfect “bloody” effect—strain them for smoothness.
Add red food coloring for even more visual impact.
Serve on a black or spooky-themed platter for Halloween vibes.
