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Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

4.5 from 58 reviews

These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with a beautifully creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl. Featuring a vibrant red velvet base made with bittersweet chocolate and cocoa powder, these decadent bars are perfect for celebrations or anytime you crave an indulgent dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Batter

  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, diced into large cubes
  • 4 ounces 72% bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 ounce red food coloring (adjust as needed for desired shade)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted if lumpy
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Cream Cheese Swirl

  • 2 large egg whites
  • 8 ounce package cream cheese, very well softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil for easier cleanup and spray it with cooking spray. Set aside.
  2. Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a very large microwave-safe bowl, combine the diced butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate. Microwave on high for 90 seconds, then stir. Continue heating in 15-second intervals if needed until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
  3. Add Sugar and Eggs: Whisk the granulated sugar into the melted chocolate mixture until combined, creating a thick and granular texture. Then add the eggs and whisk again until smooth.
  4. Incorporate Flavor and Color: Gently whisk in the red food coloring and vanilla extract. Adjust the amount of food coloring to achieve your desired vibrant red hue. Once incorporated, add the sifted cocoa powder and stir to blend well.
  5. Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the all-purpose flour and kosher salt until just combined. Do not overmix. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  6. Make the Cream Cheese Swirl: Using a handheld electric mixer on high speed, beat the egg whites, softened cream cheese, and sugar together for about 5 minutes until the mixture is very smooth and has significantly increased in volume.
  7. Finish the Cream Cheese Mixture: Add the flour and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and beat until fully incorporated.
  8. Create the Swirl: Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. Use a knife to gently swirl the two mixtures together, creating a marbled effect.
  9. Bake the Brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. Begin checking at 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. If your oven or altitude requires longer baking, continue until done.

Notes

  • Use high-quality bittersweet chocolate for best flavor and texture.
  • Adjust the red food coloring amount to reach your preferred shade of red.
  • Swirling the cream cheese gently preserves the distinct marbled look and texture.
  • Rotating the pan during baking helps to avoid uneven cooking or browning.
  • Make sure the cream cheese is very soft to blend smoothly without lumps.

Keywords: red velvet brownies, cheesecake brownies, red velvet cheesecake, chocolate brownies, dessert bars, marbled brownies