Step 1: Make the Cheesecake Filling

To start, beat together 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the cake batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups flour, 1 1/4 cups sugar, 1 tbsp + 1 tsp cocoa powder, and 1 tsp baking soda. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup vegetable oil, 3/4 cup buttermilk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 2 eggs, 1 oz red food coloring, and 2 tsp vinegar. Once fully combined, mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-inch bundt pan. Layer 1/3 of the red velvet cake batter into the pan. Spoon half of the cheesecake filling over the batter, making sure it doesn’t touch the sides. Add another 1/3 of the cake batter, followed by the rest of the cheesecake filling, and finish with the remaining cake batter.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake for 38-43 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 3 tbsp milk, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and add sprinkles for decoration if desired.