If you’re a fan of both rich, fudgy brownies and luscious cheesecake, the Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine the perfect balance of velvety red velvet chocolate swirled with creamy cheesecake — every bite is a heavenly journey of flavors and textures. This dessert is show-stopping enough for special occasions but effortless enough to whip up any time you crave something truly extraordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the perfect texture and flavor contrast in this recipe. Each element is thoughtfully chosen to contribute the classic red velvet taste, the soft richness of cheesecake, and the luscious fudginess of brownies.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds moisture and richness, ensuring the brownie base is delightfully fudgy.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the batter and helps achieve that tender crumb.
- Large eggs (2): Provide structure and help bind everything together smoothly.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor complexity of the red velvet and balances the cheesecake.
- Red food coloring (1 tablespoon): Gives those brownies their iconic, vibrant red hue that makes this recipe pop.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/3 cup): Delivers the subtle chocolate undertone essential to red velvet’s signature taste.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): The backbone of the brownie’s structure, ensuring just the right chewiness.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch of salt that balances the sweetness and deepens the flavor.
For the Cheesecake Swirl:
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): The star ingredient that creates the creamy, tangy swirl creating that cheesecake magic.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake filling for a perfect counterpoint to the red velvet.
- Large egg yolk (1): Adds richness and helps the swirl set beautifully during baking.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake flavor.
How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang for easy brownie removal later. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and glossy. This combination creates the luscious base for your brownies.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, mix in the eggs, vanilla extract, and the vibrant red food coloring. This step transforms the batter into its signature red velvet color while building the rich, moist foundation of flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt to ensure no lumps and a silky batter texture. Fold these dry ingredients gently into the wet mix until just combined—you want a thick, velvety batter perfect for that fudgy brownie feel.
Step 4: Reserve Batter and Prepare the Pan
Set aside 1/4 cup of this luscious red velvet batter for swirling later. Spread the remaining batter evenly into your prepared pan, creating a smooth, even layer that will soon be topped with cheesecake magic.
Step 5: Make the Cheesecake Swirl
In a separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until perfectly creamy and smooth. This luscious cheesecake layer will contrast beautifully against the rich red velvet base, creating those irresistible swirls that make this dessert unique.
Step 6: Layer and Swirl
Spoon the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan. Then, drop dollops of the reserved red velvet batter on top of the cheesecake layer. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the two batters together to create stunning marbled patterns. It’s both a feast for the eyes and the palate!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 28 to 32 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake — you want them fudgy, not dry.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. For cleaner, neater slices, chill the brownies in the refrigerator before cutting into generous squares. This step helps those gorgeous swirls hold their shape when served.
How to Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little something extra can turn these brownies into a stunning centerpiece. Try dusting the tops with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a delicate finish. Alternatively, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of white chocolate ganache complements the cheesecake swirls perfectly.
Side Dishes
While these brownies are superb on their own, serving them alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates the experience. The tartness of raspberries or strawberries contrasts beautifully with the creamy sweetness, while ice cream adds a cool, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a decorative platter with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves. Another fun idea is to layer brownie cubes in dessert glasses with whipped cream and berries for an elegant parfait-style treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and you might!), keep them covered in the refrigerator. Wrapped tightly or stored in an airtight container, these brownies stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days.
Freezing
Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe also freeze beautifully. Simply wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy a decadent treat anytime you want.
Reheating
To reheat, let frozen brownies thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then warm them in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy them chilled if you prefer that creamy cheesecake texture. Either way, they taste just as divine as when freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?
Absolutely! Gel food coloring is a great option because it provides vibrant color without adding extra liquid, which can affect the batter consistency. Just use slightly less than you would with liquid to avoid altering the texture.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese?
Yes, softening the cream cheese is crucial for achieving a smooth cheesecake swirl without lumps. Leaving it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting your brownies makes mixing much easier.
Can I substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?
Gluten-free flour blends can usually replace all-purpose flour in a 1:1 ratio, but results may vary slightly in texture. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best fudgy brownies.
What’s the best way to get clean slices with swirling?
Chilling the brownies thoroughly before slicing is key for clean cuts. Use a sharp knife, and wipe it between cuts to maintain the neat swirl patterns and prevent sticking.
Can I double the recipe for a larger pan?
Yes, doubling the recipe works perfectly for a 9×13-inch pan. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly and check for doneness around 35 to 40 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is an absolute winner anytime you want to impress or treat yourself. The rich, velvety red velvet paired with tangy, creamy cheesecake is an irresistible combination. Trust me, once you try these brownies, they’ll become your go-to recipe for celebrations, cozy nights in, or whenever the dessert craving hits. So grab your ingredients and dive into this deliciously fun baking adventure!
Print
Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these rich and moist Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies that combine a classic red velvet chocolate base with a creamy cheesecake swirl, creating a perfect dessert for any occasion, especially Valentine’s Day.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Swirl
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- Mix brownie batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until smooth.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Stir the mixture until just combined, forming a thick batter. Reserve 1/4 cup of this batter for the cheesecake swirl topping.
- Spread batter in pan: Pour the remaining batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly to cover the bottom.
- Prepare cheesecake mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble cheesecake layer: Spoon the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan, and gently spread it out.
- Create swirl effect: Drop dollops of the reserved red velvet batter over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the red velvet batter through the cheesecake layer to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the brownies: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 28–32 minutes. The center should be just set, and a toothpick inserted will come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and cut: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift the brownies out using the parchment overhang, then cut into 16 squares.
Notes
- For clean and neat cuts, chill the brownies in the refrigerator before slicing.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 5 days.
- You can double the recipe for a 9×13-inch pan; just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
