Introduction

Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the tangy cream cheese swirl and vibrant red color of red velvet cake. They are a stunning and delicious treat perfect for any occasion.

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

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
2–3 tbsp red food coloring
8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar (for cream cheese swirl)
1 tsp vanilla extract (for cream cheese swirl)
1 egg (for cream cheese swirl)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring and mix well.
Step 3: Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and creamy for the swirl layer.
Step 5: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of half the cream cheese mixture over the batter and gently swirl with a butter knife or skewer to create a marbled effect.
Step 6: Repeat with the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture, swirling again lightly.
Step 7: Bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep a fudgy texture.
Step 8: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a deeper red color, add an extra tablespoon of red food coloring.
Use full-fat cream cheese for best flavor and texture in the swirl.
To create a more intricate swirl pattern, use a toothpick or skewer in a gentle zigzag motion without fully mixing layers.
If you prefer, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.

Storage

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to one week. To reheat, warm them briefly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften the cream cheese swirl.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different food coloring if I don’t have red?

Yes, you can use other gel food colorings to create different colored brownies, but the classic characteristic of red velvet comes from the red color combined with cocoa powder.

How do I prevent the cream cheese swirl from sinking?

Make sure the cream cheese mixture is well-beaten and slightly thick. Swirling it gently into the brownie batter rather than fully mixing helps it stay on top and create a beautiful marbled effect.

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 73 reviews

Indulge in the rich, fudgy delight of Red Velvet Brownies featuring a classic cream cheese swirl. These irresistibly moist brownies combine the deep chocolate flavor of cocoa with vibrant red food coloring and a tangy cream cheese layer, creating a stunning marbled dessert perfect for any occasion.

Author: zara
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies (cut into 2-inch squares) 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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
2–3 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

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
Make Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring, mixing thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients evenly. Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until the batter is smooth and fully combined without overmixing.
Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps. This will create the luscious cream cheese swirl.
Assemble Brownies: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of half the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter, then use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers creating a marbled effect. Repeat the process by layering the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture and swirl again lightly.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted in the center to test doneness; it should come out with only a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking to maintain fudginess.
Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares to set the texture properly. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate to enhance appearance and taste before serving.

Notes

Fudgy Texture: Avoid overbaking as the brownies will continue to firm up while cooling, ensuring a soft and moist texture.
Swirl Design: Use a butter knife or skewer to create a beautiful marbled cream cheese swirl without fully mixing the layers for a striking presentation.

Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Swirl, Fudgy Brownies, Red Velvet Dessert, Chocolate Brownies, Baked Brownies