The Black Sesame Red Velvet Cheesecake is a striking fusion of East and West, combining the rich cocoa flavors and vibrant color of red velvet with the nutty, earthy depth of black sesame. With a unique cookie crust, luscious cheesecake filling, and optional sesame swirl and whipped topping, this dessert is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you want to impress with a showstopping treat.
π° Components
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Black Sesame Chocolate Crust
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Red Velvet Cheesecake Layer
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Optional Black Sesame Cheesecake Swirl
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Optional Black Sesame Whipped Cream or Ganache Topping
π§Ύ Ingredients
1. Black Sesame Crust
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1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (e.g., Oreo cookies with the filling removed)
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2 tablespoons black sesame seeds, toasted and ground
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2. Red Velvet Cheesecake
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3 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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3 large eggs
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1 cup sour cream
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
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1½ teaspoons white vinegar
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2 teaspoons red food coloring (gel preferred)
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1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
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Pinch of salt
3. Optional: Black Sesame Swirl
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4 oz cream cheese
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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1 egg yolk
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2 tablespoons black sesame paste (preferably sweetened or nuttier variety)
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1 tablespoon heavy cream
4. Optional: Black Sesame Whipped Cream
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1 cup heavy cream, cold
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2 tablespoons powdered sugar
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1–2 tablespoons black sesame paste
π©π³ Instructions
β Step 1: Prepare the Crust
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Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
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In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs, ground black sesame seeds, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
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Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan.
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Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove and allow to cool while you prepare the filling.
β Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Cheesecake
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until completely smooth and lump-free.
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Add the granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
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Mix in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next.
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Stir in the sour cream, vanilla, cocoa powder, vinegar, red food coloring, and salt.
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Finally, gently mix in the flour until just combined—do not overmix, to maintain a creamy texture.
β Step 3 (Optional): Prepare the Black Sesame Swirl
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In a small bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, sesame paste, and cream until smooth and creamy.
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Set aside for swirling into the cheesecake.
β Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake
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Pour the red velvet cheesecake batter over the cooled crust.
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If using the sesame swirl, drop small spoonfuls over the top of the batter.
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Use a skewer or knife to gently swirl the black sesame mixture into the surface of the cheesecake, creating a marbled effect.
β Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake
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Wrap the bottom of the pan in aluminum foil to prevent leaks and place it in a water bath (bain-marie).
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Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly.
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Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and allow the cheesecake to cool inside for 1 hour.
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Then chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight.
β Step 6 (Optional): Make Black Sesame Whipped Cream
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Beat the cold cream with powdered sugar and black sesame paste until stiff peaks form.
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Pipe or spread over the fully chilled cheesecake just before serving.
π½οΈ Serving Suggestions
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Garnish with toasted black sesame seeds, dark chocolate curls, or even a light dusting of cocoa powder.
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Serve with matcha green tea for a delightful East-Asian pairing, or enjoy with a hot cup of coffee for a more classic contrast.
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This cheesecake keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Black Sesame Red Velvet Cheesecake is more than a dessert—it's an experience of texture and taste. The bold red hue of the cheesecake contrasts beautifully with the dark, nutty sesame swirl, creating a dessert that's both visually stunning and deeply flavorful. Whether you’re introducing black sesame to new palates or treating yourself to something unique, this recipe is bound to impress.
