Description

These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies combine rich, fudgy red velvet brownies with a creamy cheesecake swirl, delivering a decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare yet elegant, these brownies offer a beautiful marbled look and a luscious flavor blend that’s irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Red Velvet Brownie Layer:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
2 large eggs
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
Pinch of salt

For the Cheesecake Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 egg yolk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Make the Brownie Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each until smooth. Fold in the all-purpose flour and salt just until incorporated. Reserve 1/4 cup of this batter for swirling, and spread the remaining batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a separate bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
Assemble & Swirl: Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan. Dollop the reserved brownie batter over the cheesecake layer in small spoonfuls. Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the two batters together, creating a marbled effect without overmixing.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly when gently shaken. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan. For cleaner slices, chill the brownies in the refrigerator before cutting.

Notes

Don’t skip the white vinegar—it enhances the red color and adds the signature tangy flavor.
Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer.
Cool the brownies completely before slicing to achieve clean, even bars.
Store brownies in the refrigerator for a firmer texture and improved flavor.
For a dairy-free option, substitute vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese.
To boost the cocoa flavor, add 1–2 extra tablespoons of cocoa powder to the brownie batter.
Try adding white chocolate chips or chopped pecans for extra texture and flavor.
Natural food dyes like beet powder can replace the red food coloring for a healthier alternative.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 brownie (1/16 of recipe)
Calories: 180
Sugar: 13g
Sodium: 80mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cheesecake Brownies, Red Velvet Cheesecake, Dessert, Swirled Brownies, Holiday Dessert