Print

Red Velvet Brownie Swirls Recipe

4.6 from 68 reviews

These Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with a vibrant red hue and a tangy cream cheese swirl. Perfectly balanced between chocolatey and creamy, this dessert is visually stunning and irresistibly delicious, ideal for special occasions or everyday indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Layer

  • 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 23 tbsp red food coloring

Cream Cheese Swirl

  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 egg

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies later.
  2. Make brownie batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring, mixing thoroughly. Then, gradually stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined to form the brownie batter.
  3. Prepare cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
  4. Assemble: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of half the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter and gently swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect. Repeat this layering and swirling process with the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture.
  5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs, indicating the brownies are perfectly cooked.
  6. Cool & serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to set properly. Once cooled, cut into squares and optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate for extra indulgence.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the swirl mixture.
  • Use gel food coloring for more vibrant red without adding extra liquid.
  • You can substitute butter with margarine for a dairy-free option, but the flavor may vary.
  • Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
  • Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting to achieve clean slices.

Keywords: Red velvet brownies, cream cheese swirl, chocolate brownies, dessert recipe, easy brownies