Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe

Introduction

Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the bold flavor and striking color of red velvet. Topped with a creamy, swirled cream cheese layer, these treats are perfect for anytime you want a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2–3 tbsp red food coloring
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar (for cream cheese layer)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for cream cheese layer)
• 1 egg (for cream cheese layer)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring, mixing well to combine.
3. Step 3: Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and creamy.
5. Step 5: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of half the cream cheese mixture evenly over the batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter to create a marbled effect.
6. Step 6: Repeat with the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture, layering and swirling again.
7. Step 7: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Step 8: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For fudgier brownies, be careful not to overbake; the brownies will firm up as they cool.
• Use a butter knife or skewer to create the swirl design without mixing the cream cheese completely into the batter.
• To enhance the red velvet flavor, you can add a teaspoon of white vinegar and half a teaspoon of baking soda to the brownie batter.
• Try adding white chocolate chips to the brownie layer for a sweet contrast.

Storage

Store the cooled brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow them to come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving. You can also freeze the brownies for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different food coloring for these brownies?

Yes, you can experiment with gel or liquid food coloring, but gel tends to provide more vibrant color without thinning the batter.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, making sure it includes xanthan gum for best results.

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 70 reviews

• Author: Ella
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies (about 2-inch squares) 1x

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Description

These Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the vibrant color and subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet. Swirled with a luscious cream cheese layer, this treat offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy in every bite. Ideal for dessert lovers looking for a festive, visually stunning sweet treat that’s easy to prepare.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Layer

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2–3 tbsp red food coloring

Cream Cheese Swirl

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prepare for the batter.
2. Make Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Incorporate the eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring, mixing thoroughly. Then, stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
4. Assemble Layers: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Dollop half of the cream cheese mixture over it in spoonfuls, then use a butter knife to gently swirl the layers together for a marbled effect. Repeat the process with the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture, swirling again carefully.
5. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center—there should be only a few moist crumbs on it.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. For an optional finishing touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.

Notes

• Fudgy Texture: Avoid overbaking the brownies as they will firm up further while cooling, ensuring a perfect fudgy consistency.
• Swirl Design: Use a butter knife or skewer to create a gentle marbled pattern; avoid overmixing to maintain distinct layers.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: red velvet brownies, cream cheese swirl, fudgy brownies, chocolate dessert, layered brownies, red velvet dessert