Description
These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies combine the rich, classic flavor of red velvet brownies with a creamy cheesecake swirl for a decadent dessert. Perfectly fudgy and moist, with a vibrant red color and a luscious cream cheese layer, these brownies are easy to make and ideal for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon red gel food coloring (Wilton no-taste recommended)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
Cheesecake Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-by-8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Mix Brownie Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Add Butter and Food Coloring: Whisk in the melted unsalted butter and red gel food coloring until the batter is smooth and has a vibrant red color.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt, then whisk these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined to form the brownie batter.
- Spread Brownie Batter: Spread all but about 3 tablespoons of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, reserving the remainder for swirling on top.
- Prepare Cheesecake Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 large egg together until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Layers: Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the brownie batter in the pan. Then dot the surface with the reserved 3 tablespoons of brownie batter.
- Create Swirls: Using a butter knife, gently swirl the brownie batter dots into the cheesecake layer to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the center of the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 16 servings. This helps them set for clean slices.
Notes
- Use a gel food coloring to achieve vibrant red color without altering the batter consistency.
- Allow the cream cheese to soften to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Do not overmix the brownie batter after adding dry ingredients to keep brownies fudgy.
- Ensure brownies are fully cooled before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese and butter with suitable vegan alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
