Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe
These Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the tangy sweetness of a cream cheese swirl. Featuring a vibrant red hue and a hint of cocoa, this decadent dessert is perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies (cut into 2-inch squares) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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 ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Make brownie batter: 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; mix thoroughly until well combined. Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined to form your batter.
- Prepare cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg together until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Assemble: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly. Drop spoonfuls of half the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter. Using a butter knife or skewer, swirl the mixtures gently to create a marbled effect without fully blending. Repeat this layering and swirling process with the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture.
- Bake: Bake the assembled brownies in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted in the center to check doneness; it should come out with only a few moist crumbs attached, indicating a fudgy texture.
- Cool & serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to set properly before cutting into squares. For an extra touch of sweetness and presentation, you may dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving.
Notes
- Fudgy texture: Do not overbake the brownies as they will continue to firm up while cooling, preserving a moist, fudgy consistency.
- Swirl design: For a beautiful marbled look, use a butter knife or skewer to swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter gently, avoiding fully mixing the two layers.
Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Swirl, Fudgy Brownies, Chocolate Desserts, Easy Brownie Recipe
