Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Introduction
Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the vibrant color and tangy swirl of cream cheese. This decadent treat is perfect for anyone craving a twist on traditional brownies that delivers both flavor and eye-catching appeal.
Ingredients
- 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
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar (for cream cheese swirl)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for cream cheese swirl)
- 1 egg (for cream cheese swirl)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1½ cups sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring; mix until well combined.
- Step 3: Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and creamy.
- Step 5: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of half the cream cheese mixture over the batter, then use a knife to swirl it lightly.
- Step 6: Repeat layering with the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture, swirling again to create a marbled effect.
- Step 7: Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs.
- Step 8: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate for extra flair.
Tips & Variations
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red without adding extra liquid to the batter.
- Swap the cream cheese swirl for a peanut butter swirl for a different flavor twist.
- For an extra fudgy texture, slightly underbake the brownies and let them set as they cool.
- Chill the cream cheese before mixing if it’s too soft to make swirling easier.
Storage
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave for 15–20 seconds to soften the cream cheese swirl without drying out the brownie.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?
Yes, regular cocoa powder works fine in this recipe and will still provide a rich chocolate flavor. Just be aware it may slightly alter the color intensity of the red velvet.
How do I prevent the cream cheese swirl from sinking?
Make sure the cream cheese mixture is smooth and thick before swirling. Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the cream cheese, and swirl gently to maintain the marbled effect.
Print
Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies (about 2-inch squares) 1x
Description
Delight in these luscious Red Velvet Brownies featuring a rich, cocoa-infused brownie base swirled with a creamy, tangy cream cheese layer. Perfectly balanced with vibrant red coloring and a moist, fudgy texture, these brownies make a stunning and delicious dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
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 an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make brownie batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring, mixing well to incorporate all ingredients evenly. Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt just until combined, avoiding overmixing to maintain brownie tenderness.
- 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, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Assemble: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture in dollops over the brownie batter, then gently swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect. Repeat this layering and swirling process with the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached, indicating the brownies are baked but still moist.
- Cool & serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to set up properly before cutting into squares. Optionally, dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate over before serving for extra flair and sweetness.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth swirl mixture.
- Adjust red food coloring quantity to achieve your desired shade of red without affecting taste.
- Use parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner edges.
- Do not overbake to keep the brownies fudgy and moist.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies, Fudgy Brownies, Dessert, Baked Brownies
