Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies

Introduction

Craving a dessert that’s rich, fudgy, and visually stunning? What if you could combine the tangy, cocoa-infused charm of red velvet with a creamy cheesecake swirl in a single bite? Say hello to Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies! These decadent treats feature a moist red velvet brownie base topped with a smooth cream cheese layer and swirled with vibrant red batter for a marbled effect. Perfect for holidays, parties, or satisfying your sweet tooth, they’re as easy to make as they are impressive. Ready to create some fudgy, creamy magic? Let’s grab a mixing bowl and get baking!

Overview

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies are a layered dessert with a fudgy red velvet brownie base, a creamy cream cheese filling, and a swirled red velvet topping. What sheltered by the tangy sweetness of red velvet with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake. This beginner-friendly recipe takes about 1 hour (15 minutes prep, 28–32 minutes baking, plus cooling) and yields 16 brownies, making it ideal for sharing at gatherings or gifting.

• Time Requirement: 1 hour (15 minutes prep, 28–32 minutes baking, plus cooling)
• Difficulty Level: Easy (great for beginners)
• Servings: 16 brownies

Essential Ingredients

The magic of Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies lies in their simple, flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

For the Red Velvet Brownie Batter

• Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted): Adds richness and moisture to the brownies.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and tenderizes the brownie base.
• Large Eggs (2): Bind the ingredients and add structure.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet note.
• Red Food Coloring (1 tbsp): Creates the iconic red velvet hue.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (⅓ cup): Provides the signature red velvet cocoa flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour (¾ cup): Forms the structure for a fudgy texture.
• Salt (¼ tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a tangy, creamy layer.
• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the filling subtly.
• Large Egg (1): Adds richness and helps set the filling.
• Vanilla Extract (½ tsp): Complements the cream cheese with a sweet note.

Substitutions and Variations

• Butter: Use salted butter (omit added salt) or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Sugar: Replace with coconut sugar or a sugar-free alternative, noting a slight texture change.
• Eggs: Use ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) for a vegan version, though the texture may be denser.
• Red Food Coloring: Use natural red food coloring (like beet juice) or omit for a cocoa-colored brownie, adjusting flavor slightly.
• Flour: Swap with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Cream Cheese: Use low-fat cream cheese or vegan cream cheese, noting a softer texture.
• Add-Ins: Mix ½ cup mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chips into the brownie batter for extra decadence.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan butter, vegan cream cheese, flax eggs, and plant-based milk if needed for a fully vegan brownie.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies is straightforward with a few key steps. Follow these instructions for perfect brownies every time:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment.
   • Tip: Use nonstick spray or butter to ensure easy release, and clip the parchment to the pan edges for stability.
2. Make the Red Velvet Batter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup melted unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and combined, about 1 minute.
   • Add 2 large eggs, 2 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tbsp red food coloring, whisking until fully incorporated.
   • Sift in ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, ¾ cup all-purpose flour, and ¼ tsp salt. Stir with a spatula until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the brownies fudgy.
   • Reserve about ¼ cup of the batter in a small bowl for the swirl topping and set aside.
   • Tip: Sift dry ingredients to prevent cocoa clumps, and mix gently to maintain a tender texture.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
   • In a medium mixing bowl, use a handheld mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to beat 8 oz softened cream cheese, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and ½ tsp vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, about 1–2 minutes.
   • Scrape down the bowl to ensure no lumps remain.
   • Tip: Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 30–60 minutes for a smooth filling, and beat until silky.
4. Assemble the Brownies:
   • Spread most of the red velvet batter (except the reserved ¼ cup) evenly into the prepared 8×8-inch pan, smoothing with a spatula for a level base.
   • Pour the cream cheese filling over the brownie batter and gently spread with a spatula to cover evenly.
   • Drop spoonfuls of the reserved ¼ cup red velvet batter randomly over the cream cheese layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the batter lightly into the cream cheese, creating a marbled effect.
   • Tip: Don’t over-swirl; aim for distinct red streaks for a striking visual effect.
5. Bake:
   • Bake on the middle oven rack for 28–32 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
   • Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, about 1–2 hours.
   • Tip: Check at 28 minutes, as ovens vary, and avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy.
6. Slice and Serve:
   • Once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment overhang and place on a cutting board.
   • Cut into 16 squares (4×4 grid) using a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts for neat edges.
   • Serve at room temperature or chilled, optionally with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
   • Tip: Run the knife under hot water and wipe dry for cleaner cuts, especially through the cream cheese layer.

Assembly

Assembling Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies is all about creating a fudgy, creamy dessert with a stunning marbled look. Here’s how to make them look and taste incredible:

• Layer Thoughtfully: Spread the brownie batter evenly, pour the cream cheese filling smoothly, and swirl the reserved batter lightly for a balanced texture and visual appeal.
• Baking Tips:
  • Bake just until set to maintain a fudgy texture; a few moist crumbs on the toothpick are ideal.
  • Cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices and a set cream cheese layer.
  • Use a metal pan for even baking, as glass pans may require slightly longer cooking times.
• Presentation Tips:
  • Serve on a platter or in paper liners to showcase the vibrant red and creamy white swirls.
  • Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, cocoa powder, or fresh berries for a festive touch.
  • Pair with a glass of milk, hot coffee, or a scoop of ice cream for a complete dessert experience, perfect for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or casual gatherings.
  • Use a spatula to lift brownies cleanly, highlighting the marbled layers.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies are best fresh but can be prepped or stored with these tips to maintain their quality:

• Make-Ahead:
  • Prepare the brownie batter and cream cheese filling up to 4 hours in advance, store separately in the fridge, and assemble just before baking.
  • Bake the brownies up to 1 day ahead, cool completely, cover, and store at room temperature or in the fridge. Cut just before serving for the freshest look.
  • Tip: Don’t cut too early, as the cream cheese layer may soften if exposed to air for too long.
• Storage:
  • Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
  • Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking, especially for the cream cheese topping.
  • Tip: If refrigerated, let sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing:
  • Freeze baked brownies in an airtight container or freezer bag, layered with parchment, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for 1–2 hours before serving.
  • Freeze uncut brownies for easier storage, then thaw and cut when ready to serve.
  • Tip: Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn, and avoid freezing with garnishes like powdered sugar.

Recipe Variations

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies are versatile and fun to customize. Here are some creative twists to try:

• Mocha Red Velvet Brownies: Add 1 tsp instant coffee to the brownie batter for a mocha flavor.
• White Chocolate Red Velvet Brownies: Mix ½ cup white chocolate chips into the brownie batter and drizzle melted white chocolate over the top.
• Nutty Red Velvet Brownies: Stir ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts into the brownie batter for added crunch.
• Raspberry Red Velvet Brownies: Swirl ¼ cup raspberry jam into the cream cheese layer for a fruity twist.
• Gluten-Free Brownies: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Vegan Brownies: Use vegan butter, vegan cream cheese, flax eggs, and plant-based milk for a plant-based version.

Conclusion

You’re now ready to bake Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies that are as delicious as they are beautiful! This 1-hour recipe is perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you crave a fudgy, creamy dessert. With their vibrant red velvet base, tangy cream cheese swirls, and rich cocoa flavor, these brownies are a guaranteed hit. Feel free to tweak the add-ins, garnishes, or flavors to make them your own. Grab your baking pan, swirl that batter, and enjoy every fudgy, decadent bite. Happy baking, and savor the red velvet bliss!

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FAQs

1. Can I use a different pan size?
Yes, but adjust baking time. A 9×9-inch pan will yield thinner brownies and may need 25–28 minutes. A 7×7-inch pan will make thicker brownies, needing 32–35 minutes. Check with a toothpick.

2. Are these brownies healthy?
They’re an indulgent treat, but you can lighten them with low-fat cream cheese, reduced sugar (¾ cup in brownie batter), or smaller pieces. Enjoy in moderation.

3. Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Use vegan butter, vegan cream cheese, flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), and ensure cocoa and food coloring are vegan-friendly.

4. Why are my brownies too gooey?
Underbaking or insufficient cooling can cause gooeyness. Bake until a toothpick has moist crumbs, and cool completely before cutting.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Double all ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Increase baking time to 32–36 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

6. How do I get clean slices?
Cool completely, chill for 30 minutes if needed, and use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping clean between cuts for neat slices.

7. Can I prep these for a party?
Yes! Bake up to 1 day ahead, store covered, and cut just before serving. Add garnishes like powdered sugar at serving time for freshness.

8. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Layer with parchment to prevent sticking.