Red Velvet Cheesecake

1 . Stage

Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Spray 2, 9-inch springform pans with cooking spray.

2 . Stage

Sift flour, salt, baking soda, and cocoa powder into a large bowl. Whisk in oil, 2 eggs, vanilla extract, vinegar, white sugar, and buttermilk. When well blended, whisk in food coloring and water. Pour half of the batter into each prepared pan.

3 . Stage

Bake cakes in preheated oven until cake toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean; about 30 minutes.

4 . Stage

While the cake is cooling, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Mix in the sugar and cornstarch; beat until creamy. Add the 2 remaining eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Blend in vanilla. Use a hand whisk to mix in the heavy cream until well blended. Pour half of the batter over each cake layer.

5 . Stage

Bake cheesecakes in preheated oven until set and beginning to brown, 30 to 45 minutes. Cool on a wire rack for 1 hour. Cover and refrigerate until completely cool, about 1 additional hour.