Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe


  • Author: Zoe
  • Total Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
  • Yield: 16 brownies 1x

Description

These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies combine the rich, moist texture of classic red velvet brownies with a luscious, creamy cheesecake swirl. With a deep red color and a marbled cream cheese topping, these brownies offer a delightful contrast of flavors and a beautiful presentation, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a decadent treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Base

  • 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 (or 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 Pan and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil if desired for easier cleanup, and spray it with cooking spray. Set aside.
  2. Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the cubed butter and chopped bittersweet chocolate. Microwave on high for 90 seconds, stirring to smooth. If not fully melted, heat in additional 15-second intervals until smooth.
  3. Add Sugar and Eggs: Whisk in the granulated sugar until the mixture is thick and granular. Add the eggs and whisk until fully combined.
  4. Add Coloring and Flavor: Gently whisk in the red food coloring and vanilla extract. Add more food coloring as needed to reach the desired vibrant red color.
  5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Stir in the sifted cocoa powder, then add the flour and kosher salt. Mix until just combined to form the brownie batter.
  6. Pour Brownie Batter: Transfer the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Set aside.
  7. Make Cream Cheese Swirl: Using a handheld electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, egg whites, granulated sugar on high for about 5 minutes until smooth and significantly fluffy.
  8. Add Flour and Vanilla: Beat in the flour and vanilla extract until incorporated into the cream cheese mixture.
  9. Apply Cream Cheese Mixture: Drop heaping tablespoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. There will be a generous amount which is perfect for swirling.
  10. Create Swirl Effect: Gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the brownie batter using a knife to produce a marbled effect.
  11. Bake: Bake for 40 to 45 minutes (42 minutes recommended) or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Start checking at 30 minutes and rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.

Notes

  • The amount of red food coloring can be adjusted for your preferred shade of red.
  • Using heavy-duty aluminum foil makes cleanup easier but is optional.
  • Because ovens and ingredient variances occur, bake brownies until done in your oven regardless of timing suggestions.
  • Swirling the cream cheese gently maintains the visually appealing marbled effect without blending the two batters completely.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 42 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Red velvet brownies, cheesecake swirl brownies, chocolate dessert, red velvet dessert, cream cheese brownies