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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
