Description
This Red Velvet Brownies recipe features rich, moist brownies infused with classic red velvet flavor and topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese swirl. Perfectly balanced between chocolatey and sweet, these decadent brownies are easy to make and ideal for any dessert lover looking for a festive twist on traditional brownies.
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 prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Make brownie batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring, mixing thoroughly. Then, stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined to form the brownie batter.
- Prepare cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating the swirl topping.
- Assemble: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Drop spoonfuls of half the cream cheese mixture over the batter. Using a knife, lightly swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter to create a marbled effect. Repeat with the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs, indicating the brownies are just set but still moist.
- Cool & serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra indulgence before serving.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor in the cream cheese swirl.
- Adjust the amount of red food coloring to achieve your preferred shade of red velvet.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to prevent lumps in the swirl mixture.
- Do not overbake to keep the brownies moist and fudgy.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: red velvet brownies, cream cheese swirl, chocolate brownies, dessert, easy baking recipe
