Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe
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
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
- 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