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.
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 make removal easier.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
