Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
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.
- Author: Dylan
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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