Introduction

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful twist on classic brownies, combining the rich flavors of red velvet cake with creamy cheesecake swirls. These luscious treats are perfect for celebrations or anytime you want an indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress.

A square piece of cake with three clear layers sits on a white plate over a white marbled surface, with a spoon beside it. The bottom layer is dark brown and dense, the middle layer is thick, smooth, and white, and the top layer is crumbly and bright red with a drizzle of white and red sauce on it. The background is soft and blurred with a light creamy drink in a glass slightly out of focus, and red petals are scattered around the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, stirring until well combined.
Step 3: Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar until smooth. Add the egg and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla and beat until creamy and free of lumps.
Step 5: Pour about three-quarters of the red velvet batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer, spreading gently to the edges.
Step 6: Drop spoonfuls of the remaining red velvet batter on top of the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the batter through the cheesecake, creating a marbled effect.
Step 7: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs allowed.
Step 8: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For neater slicing, chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cutting.
Step 9: Slice into squares and serve plain or with whipped cream or chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor in the cheesecake layer.
To enhance the red velvet color, add a little more red food coloring if desired.
Swirl the batter gently to avoid mixing the layers completely and maintain the beautiful marble effect.
Try adding white chocolate chips to the batter for an extra touch of sweetness.

Storage

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a soft and creamy texture. These brownies also freeze well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a square piece of dessert with three clear layers on a white plate. The bottom layer is dark brown, dense, and looks like moist cake. The middle layer is thick, creamy, and white, appearing smooth and rich. The top layer is bright red with a crumbly texture, topped with a light white cream that has thin red syrup lines drizzled over it. The white marbled texture surface is scattered with red rose petals and a silver spoon rests near the dessert. In the background, there is a blurred glass with a creamy drink and a woman's hand holding a rose petal. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different pan size?

An 8×8-inch pan is ideal for these brownies to achieve the right thickness. If you use a different size, adjust the baking time accordingly—larger pans will need less time, smaller pans more.

Is it necessary to chill the brownies before cutting?

Chilling helps the brownies firm up, making them easier to cut cleanly and preventing crumbling. While you can cut them warm, the results may be less tidy.