Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

This indulgent dessert combines the rich, chocolatey flavor of red velvet with a creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl, creating a visually stunning and delicious treat. These bars feature a chewy brownie base, a luscious cheesecake layer, and a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Brownie Batter

1. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, blend the melted butter and sugar until the mixture turns smooth.
3. Add eggs, vanilla, red food coloring, and vinegar, mixing well.
4. Gradually sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, mixing gently until just incorporated.
5. Set aside 1/4 cup of the batter for swirling later.
6. Evenly spread the rest of the batter into the lined baking pan.

Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. In another bowl, blend the cream cheese and sugar until silky smooth.
2. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, ensuring a uniform consistency.
3. Gently pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter, spreading it evenly.

Create the Swirl Effect

1. Drop spoonfuls of the reserved brownie batter on top of the cheesecake layer.
2. Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the two layers together for a marbled effect.

Bake and Cool

1. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the center remains slightly wobbly.
2. Allow the brownies to cool fully in the pan before cutting into them.

Recipes You’ll Love

• Red Velvet Cheesecake
• Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes
• Cheesecake Stuffed Red Velvet Cookies

Pro Tips

• Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the brownies fudgy.
• Let them chill for a few hours before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and butter.
• Extra Chocolate: Stir in chocolate chips for added richness.

FAQs

What makes red velvet different from chocolate?

Red velvet has a mild cocoa flavor with a tangy twist from vinegar, giving it a unique taste.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes! Store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

How do I achieve a perfect swirl pattern?

Use a toothpick to gently drag through the layers, creating a marbled effect without overmixing.

Can I use natural food coloring?

Yes! Beetroot powder or pomegranate juice can provide a natural red hue.

What’s the best way to store these brownies?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for freshness.

Can I use a different pan size?

A 9×9-inch pan will work, but baking time may be slightly shorter.

How do I know when they’re done?

The edges should be firm, and the center should have a slight wobble.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips add extra richness to the brownie layer.