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
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 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
