Description
These Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with a creamy, tangy cream cheese swirl and vibrant red color, offering a visually stunning and indulgently delicious treat perfect for any occasion.
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 ensure easy removal of the brownies after baking.
- 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 mixture is evenly colored and smooth. Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt just until combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Prepare cream cheese layer: In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy, without any lumps.
- Assemble: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of half of the cream cheese mixture over the batter. Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter to create a marbled effect. Repeat the process with the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter.
- Cool & serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares. Optionally, you can dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- Fudgy texture: To achieve the perfect fudgy brownies, avoid overbaking as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Swirl design: Use a butter knife or skewer to gently create a marbled swirl effect without fully mixing the cream cheese and brownie batter for an attractive pattern.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Swirl, Fudgy Brownies, Dessert, Baking
