Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Imagine chewy, chocolate-kissed brownies rippled with creamy cheesecake and an irresistible pop of red—these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are pure decadence! With gorgeous swirls and a dreamy texture, they’re the perfect treat to wow your friends or indulge in a sweet pick-me-up.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of kitchen staples to create these show-stopping Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies, and each ingredient truly earns its place. From the vibrant red coloring to the lusciously tangy cream cheese, every component brings flavor or texture magic.

• Eggs: Essential for binding both the brownie and cheesecake layers, giving a rich, decadent bite.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overwhelming the chocolate or cheesecake tang.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Lends warmth and rounds out all the flavors—don’t skip it!
• Unsalted Butter (melted): Ensures your brownie layer stays wonderfully chewy and moist.
• Red Gel Food Coloring: Provides that classic vibrant red hue; gel is best for richer color without thinning the batter.
• All-Purpose Flour: The structure-giver, for just the right tender-yet-structured crumb.
• Cocoa Powder: Brings quintessential chocolate notes to the red velvet base.
• Pinch of Salt: Enhances and balances the overall sweetness—don’t skip this tiny but mighty ingredient!
• Cream Cheese (softened): Delivers a tangy, creamy swirl that perfectly complements the brownie.
• Cheesecake Filling Sugar & Vanilla: Ensures the cheesecake swirl is gently sweet and fragrant.
• Egg (for cheesecake filling): Helps the cheesecake bake up smooth and luscious.

Variations

Love a little twist? Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are endlessly adaptable—here are some simple ways to make them your own while keeping every bite completely irresistible.

• Gluten-Free: Use a good 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the brownies safe for everyone to enjoy.
• Swirl in Berries: Dot the cheesecake layer with a handful of raspberries or strawberries before swirling for a fruity surprise.
• Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the brownie layer before baking for extra gooey chocolate pockets in each square.
• Marble with Peanut Butter: Dollop a few spoonfuls of warmed peanut butter atop the cheesecake layer, then swirl it through for a nutty twist.

How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease and line an 8-by-8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting—you’ll thank yourself later when it’s time to slice those photogenic-looking brownies!

Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, swiftly whisk the eggs, sugar, and vanilla until the mixture is pale and well combined. Add the melted butter and all that bold red gel food coloring and whisk again, so the color is even and vibrant. Finally, sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt, whisking gently just until combined—don’t overmix, or your brownies can turn dense.

Step 3: Spread and Reserve

Scoop out about three tablespoons of brownie batter and save it for swirling later, then spread the rest evenly into your pan with a spatula. Don’t worry if it looks a tad thin; it will puff up perfectly in the oven!

Step 4: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and egg together until smooth and completely lump-free—this is your lush cheesecake swirl. Pour this creamy filling right over your brownie layer, smoothing it with a spatula.

Step 5: Swirl and Bake

Dot little pools of your reserved brownie batter atop the cheesecake layer, then take a butter knife and gently drag it through the batters to create dramatic swirls. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for around 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely (seriously—this is the hardest part!) before lifting out and slicing.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Garnishes

Give your Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies the star treatment—think a dusting of powdered sugar, a few fresh berries, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate. For a whole vibe, add a dollop of whipped cream and savor every bite!

Side Dishes

Pair these beauties with a hot espresso, a tall glass of cold milk, or even a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream. Their richness makes them lovely alongside tart fruit—fresh strawberries or a berry compote really amp up that red velvet magic.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut brownies into tidy squares for a dessert platter, or use a heart-shaped cutter for special occasions! Stack and tie a ribbon for gifts, or serve individual pieces in cupcake liners for party-perfect treats. The swirls always steal the show!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies in an airtight container in the fridge—they’ll keep beautifully for up to five days. The flavors actually deepen on day two, so treat yourself!

Freezing

These brownies freeze well! Cut cooled brownies into squares, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for two months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

For an ooey-gooey bite, microwave a brownie for 10–15 seconds (just until slightly warm) or let it come to room temperature. Cheesecake stays silky, and the brownie becomes extra dreamy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a treat that steals the show and is genuinely fun to make, you’ve found it! Go ahead—give these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies a try. I just know you’ll fall in love with the swirls, flavors, and the pure joy they bring to any table.

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