Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

Introduction

Red velvet brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with a vibrant twist and a creamy, tangy cream cheese swirl. This easy recipe creates a stunning dessert perfect for any occasion or just a special treat at home.

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 swirl)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for cream cheese swirl)
• 1 egg (for cream cheese swirl)

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 granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring, mixing thoroughly.
3. Step 3: Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 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 on top, then gently swirl with a knife.
6. Step 6: Repeat by adding the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture, swirling again for a marbled effect.
7. Step 7: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Step 8: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra flair.

Tips & Variations

• Use gel food coloring for a more intense red hue without altering the batter’s consistency.
• If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the cream cheese swirl sugar by a tablespoon or two.
• For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts between the layers before baking.
• To make mini brownies, use a muffin tin lined with paper cups and reduce baking time to about 18-20 minutes.

Storage

Store cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm gently in the microwave or enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I substitute the cream cheese swirl with frosting?

While frosting can add sweetness, it won’t create the marbled texture that the cream cheese swirl provides. For best results, use the cream cheese mixture as described.

What can I use if I don’t have red food coloring?

You can try using natural alternatives like beet juice or powder, but the color may be less vibrant and could slightly affect the flavor. Gel food coloring is the best option for bright red velvet brownies.

Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 143 reviews

• Author: Sarah
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies (8×8-inch pan, cut into 4x4 grid) 1x

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Description

These Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the vibrant color and creamy tang of a luscious cream cheese swirl. Perfect for celebrations or an indulgent treat, this recipe yields moist, flavorful bars that balance sweet cocoa and red velvet charm in every bite.

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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 prevent sticking and make removal easier.
2. Make brownie batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring; mix thoroughly until the batter is even in color. Gradually stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
3. Prepare cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps.
4. Assemble: Pour half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Drop spoonfuls of half the cream cheese mixture on top of the batter. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter to create a marbled effect. Repeat with the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture, swirling again for an attractive pattern.
5. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
6. Cool & serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares. For an optional touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.

Notes

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the swirl.
• Red food coloring intensity can be adjusted to your preference; gel colors tend to give a more vibrant hue.
• Do not overbake to maintain a fudgy texture; check for doneness at 25 minutes.
• Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.
• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

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

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