If you are searching for a decadent dessert that brilliantly combines rich, fudgy brownies with the creamy tang of cheesecake, then you’ve found your new obsession with this Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe. Each bite delivers the classic velvety red velvet flavor intertwined with luscious swirls of cheesecake, making it a perfect treat for celebrations or an indulgent everyday delight. This recipe strikes the ideal balance of texture and flavor, ensuring these brownies will quickly become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards creating the perfect batch of Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe. Each item plays a crucial role from adding moisture and richness to the vibrant color and that irresistible cheesecake layer.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Provides a silky base and richness to the brownie layer without added salt interfering with sweetness.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the brownie part perfectly, giving it a tender crumb.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients, adding structure and moisture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, tying together the chocolate and cream cheese notes.
- Red food coloring (1 tablespoon): The hallmark of red velvet, adding that signature bold, romantic hue.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): The essential dry ingredient that gives these brownies their classic chewy texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/4 cup): Brings a subtle chocolate undertone that complements the cheesecake layer beautifully.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Ensures a slight lift, so your brownies aren’t too dense.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): The star of the cheesecake swirl, giving the brownies that creamy, tangy contrast.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup for cheesecake): Sweetens the cream cheese filling just right without overpowering.
- Large egg (1 for cheesecake): Adds richness and helps set the creamy cheesecake layer.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon for cheesecake): Lifts the flavor of the cream cheese to a silky, dreamy place.
How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Brownie Batter
Start by combining the melted unsalted butter with one cup of granulated sugar in a large bowl. Once smooth and glossy, whisk in two large eggs and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Next comes the magic touch: add in one tablespoon of red food coloring, which gives your brownies that unmistakable red velvet charm. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution. Slowly fold the dry mix into your wet ingredients, careful not to overmix, until you have a smooth, vibrant batter ready to impress.
Step 2: Mix the Cheesecake Filling
In a clean bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup sugar until creamy and smooth. Add one large egg and half a teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until the cheesecake filling is silky with no lumps. This cheesecake layer is what takes these brownies from ordinary to extraordinary, so make sure it’s perfectly blended for that irresistible texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan and pour half of the red velvet brownie batter evenly into the pan. Gently dollop half of the cheesecake mixture on top in spoonfuls. Repeat layering with the remaining brownie and cheesecake batters. To achieve the iconic marbled look, use a knife or skewer to swirl the cheesecake through the brownie batter delicately, creating beautiful ribbons of creamy white against the red velvet base.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the brownies for about 35 to 40 minutes. You want the edges to be set but the center should still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan, signifying that creamy cheesecake layer is just right. Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 generous squares.
How to Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
These brownies are stunning on their own, but a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate can elevate their appearance and taste. For a festive touch, sprinkle with red and white edible glitter or top with a few fresh berries to complement the creamy richness with a fresh burst.
Side Dishes
Serving these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes the indulgence up a notch. A hot cup of coffee, chai latte, or even a glass of cold milk pairs beautifully, balancing the sweet richness with a soothing beverage accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Try layering cut brownies and whipped cream in clear dessert glasses for an elegant parfait. Alternatively, skewering brownie bites with fresh strawberries on a platter offers a playful finger-food experience that’s perfect for parties and gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2 days. For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they will stay moist and flavorful for up to a week.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their texture or flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy your brownies warm, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm them gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This quick reheating will revive that creamy cheesecake softness and melt-in-your-mouth brownie texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel?
Yes! Regular food coloring works well, but you may need to use slightly more to achieve that vibrant red velvet color. Just keep in mind that too much liquid food coloring can slightly alter the batter consistency.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper structure, and your brownies will turn out just as delicious.
How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?
Try not to overbeat the cream cheese mixture and avoid overbaking. A slight jiggle in the center after baking is perfect, as the cheesecake will set as it cools, preventing cracks and maintaining creaminess.
Can I add chocolate chips to these brownies?
Yes, mixing in a 1/2 cup of white or dark chocolate chips into the brownie batter adds delightful bursts of melty chocolate throughout the brownies, complementing the cheesecake swirls wonderfully.
What pan size is best for this recipe?
An 8×8 inch square pan works perfectly for these brownies, giving them the ideal thickness and bake time. Using a larger or smaller pan will affect baking time and brownie thickness, so adjust accordingly if needed.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely cannot recommend this Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe enough—it’s the perfect marriage of two classic desserts into one unforgettable treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these brownies bring joy with every bite. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare to fall head over heels for this creamy, colorful delight!
Print
Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies combine the rich, velvety texture of classic red velvet cake with the creamy tang of cheesecake, creating an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a moist, cocoa-infused brownie base swirled with a luscious cream cheese layer, every bite offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Cheesecake Swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and red food coloring, mixing until evenly blended. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add in the 1/4 cup sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Brownies: Pour the red velvet brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture on top of the brownie layer. Using a butter knife or skewer, gently swirl the cheesecake into the brownie batter creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to maintain moistness.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into 16 squares. Serve and enjoy your decadent red velvet cheesecake brownies!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth cheesecake swirl.
- Use high-quality red food coloring for the richest red velvet color.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely to set the cheesecake layer properly before slicing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
