Description
These Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the tangy cream cheese swirl and vibrant red hue of red velvet cake. Perfectly balanced with a hint of cocoa and a smooth cream cheese layer, these decadent treats are ideal for dessert lovers looking for a unique 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). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make brownie batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring, mixing well to combine. Then, stir in the all-purpose 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, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated, creating the cream cheese swirl layer.
- Assemble: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of half the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer and lightly swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect. Repeat this process with the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture, swirling again.
- Bake: Bake the assembled brownies in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Cool & serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra garnish and flavor.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor in the swirl.
- Adjust the amount of red food coloring according to your desired intensity of red color.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature to blend smoothly.
- Cool the brownies completely before cutting to prevent the cream cheese layer from cracking.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies, Easy Brownie Recipe, Red Velvet Dessert, Fudgy Brownies, Holiday Dessert
