Step 1: Prepare the cheesecake layer

• Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C)

• In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy

• Add sugar and mix until well combined

• Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and sour cream

• Pour the cheesecake batter into a greased or parchment-lined 9-inch springform pan

• Bake for 40–45 minutes until the center is set and slightly jiggly

• Cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours

Step 2: Prepare the red velvet cake layers

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)

• Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt

• In a separate bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy

• Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition

• Stir in vanilla, vinegar, and red food coloring

• Add flour mixture in three additions, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour

• Mix until just combined without overmixing

Step 3: Bake the cake layers

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans

• Bake for 22–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean

• Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely

Step 4: Assemble the cake

• Once all layers are fully cooled and the cheesecake is well chilled, remove the cheesecake from its pan

• Trim the tops of the red velvet cakes if needed to ensure flat layers

• Place one red velvet cake layer on a serving platter

• Carefully place the cheesecake layer on top, followed by the second red velvet layer

• Press gently to align the layers evenly

Step 5: Prepare the cream cheese frosting (optional)

• Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy

• Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy

• Stir in vanilla and add milk or cream to reach desired spreading consistency

Step 6: Frost and decorate

• Spread a thin crumb coat of frosting around the cake

• Chill for 15 minutes, then add a final layer of frosting

• Decorate with red velvet crumbs, chocolate curls, berries, or piped rosettes if desired

• Chill until ready to serve