Print

Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

5 from 149 reviews

Deliciously rich and moist Red Velvet Brownies featuring a vibrant red cocoa brownie base swirled with a smooth, tangy cream cheese layer. This dessert combines classic red velvet flavors with the fudgy texture of traditional brownies, perfect for special occasions or anytime indulgence.

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
  • 23 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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 well until evenly combined. Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt just until the batter comes together, being careful not to overmix.
  3. Prepare cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps.
  4. Assemble: Pour half of the red velvet brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Drop spoonfuls of half the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer, then use a knife to lightly swirl them together. Repeat this process layering the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture, swirling again to create a marbled effect.
  5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached, indicating doneness without overbaking.
  6. Cool & serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut them into squares. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra decoration and flavor.

Notes

  • For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and room temperature eggs for the cream cheese swirl.
  • Adjust the amount of red food coloring to achieve your preferred shade of red.
  • Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • You can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.

Keywords: red velvet brownies, cream cheese swirl brownies, baked dessert, chocolate brownies, red velvet dessert