Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe: A Decadent Dessert for Every Occasion

When it comes to baking, there are few things as irresistible as a perfectly baked brownie, and when you add a luscious cheesecake swirl into the mix, it takes the whole experience to a whole new level of indulgence. I can still remember the first time I baked Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies. I was preparing for a holiday dinner party, and I wanted to make something that wasn’t just delicious but also eye-catching. These brownies were the perfect solution. With their vibrant red color and beautiful marbling, they were not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. The combination of the rich, chocolatey brownie base with the creamy cheesecake layer created a harmonious balance of textures and flavors that immediately became a hit with my guests.

Print

Since that first batch, I’ve made these brownies countless times for different occasions—family gatherings, birthday parties, and even as a special treat just for myself. They’ve become one of my go-to recipes because they’re not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies will elevate any event and satisfy any sweet tooth.

In this article, I’m going to break down everything you need to know about making these decadent brownies, from the ingredients and preparation steps to tips and tricks that ensure perfect results every time. This recipe is especially great for beginners because it uses common ingredients and simple techniques, all while delivering impressive results. You don’t need to be a professional pastry chef to create these beauties, and they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients and Preparation

Before you start baking, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. The good news is that the ingredients for these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are basic, and you likely already have most of them in your kitchen. I’ll also provide some substitution suggestions in case you need to make any adjustments for dietary preferences or what you have available. Let’s get started with the list of ingredients!

For the Red Velvet Brownie Layer:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Butter adds richness to the brownie batter. For a slightly lighter version, you could use vegetable oil or melted coconut oil instead.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: This is the primary sweetener in the brownie layer. If you prefer, you can substitute with brown sugar for a slightly different flavor profile or use a sugar substitute if you’re looking to cut down on sugar.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the brownies. You can use flax eggs or chia eggs as a substitute if you’re looking for a vegan option.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor of the brownies. You could experiment with almond extract for a different twist.
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring: The red food coloring gives the brownies their signature red velvet color. You can opt for natural food coloring if you prefer a more organic alternative.
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder: Cocoa powder provides the essential chocolate flavor in the brownies. Make sure to use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best results.
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: This is the main dry ingredient in the brownies. If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Salt balances out the sweetness of the brownies and enhances the chocolate flavor.

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The cream cheese forms the base of the cheesecake swirl. Make sure to soften it before mixing for a smooth texture. You can use full-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese, depending on your preference.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: This sweetens the cheesecake layer. Again, feel free to use a sugar substitute if desired.
• 1 large egg: The egg helps set the cheesecake layer and gives it that creamy, custard-like consistency.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cheesecake and adds a subtle sweetness.

Substitution Suggestions:

• You can use margarine instead of butter if you need a dairy-free option.
• If you want to make the recipe dairy-free, you can use a plant-based cream cheese and non-dairy butter.
• For a healthier twist, you can swap the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar.
• To make these brownies gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and check that all other ingredients (such as the baking powder) are also gluten-free.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to move on to the preparation steps.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies is surprisingly easy, even for beginners. The process involves a few simple steps, and the result is a decadent dessert that looks like it came from a professional bakery. Below, I’ll break down each step of the process in detail, making sure to include helpful tips along the way. By following these steps, you’ll be able to create the perfect batch of brownies every time.

1. Preheat the Oven:

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the perfect temperature by the time your batter is ready. While the oven is heating up, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang on the sides of the pan to make it easier to remove the brownies once they’ve cooled. This step will also prevent the brownies from sticking to the pan, giving you a clean, smooth finish when you cut them.

2. Prepare the Red Velvet Brownie Batter:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth and combined. You should see a glossy texture after mixing for a couple of minutes. Then, add the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the bowl. Stir everything together until it’s well incorporated. The red food coloring will turn the batter a vibrant red, giving your brownies their signature hue.

Once the wet ingredients are mixed, sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Sifting the dry ingredients ensures that there are no lumps in the batter. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing the batter can result in dense, tough brownies, so stop mixing as soon as everything is incorporated.

3. Make the Cheesecake Layer:

In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. If you have an electric mixer, this step will be quick and easy. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and beat until it’s smooth and free of lumps. It’s important to make sure the cream cheese is softened before you start, as cold cream cheese can lead to a lumpy mixture. If your cream cheese is too cold, microwave it for 10-15 seconds to soften it before mixing.

4. Assemble the Brownies:

Now that both the brownie and cheesecake layers are ready, it’s time to assemble the brownies. Pour about three-quarters of the red velvet brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the bottom of the pan. Next, carefully pour the cheesecake layer over the brownie batter. Spread it gently to cover the entire surface. Don’t worry about making it perfectly smooth—imperfections add to the rustic charm of these brownies.

Then, drop spoonfuls of the remaining red velvet batter on top of the cheesecake layer. This is where the fun part begins! Use a knife, toothpick, or skewer to swirl the red velvet batter through the cheesecake layer. This will create the marbled effect that gives the brownies their stunning appearance. The more you swirl, the more pronounced the marbling will be. Just be careful not to over-swirl, or you’ll end up with a solid layer of pink rather than a marbled design.

5. Bake:

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the brownies for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the center is set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. It’s okay if there are a few moist crumbs on the toothpick—that means the brownies are perfectly fudgy. If the toothpick comes out completely clean, the brownies might be overbaked, so keep an eye on them.

6. Cool:

Once the brownies are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling the brownies is crucial, as it allows the cheesecake layer to set properly. If you’re in a rush, you can speed up the cooling process by placing the pan in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour. However, for the best results, I recommend letting them cool at room temperature.

7. Serve:

Once your brownies are fully cooled, it’s time to cut them into squares or rectangles. You can serve them as-is, or for an extra indulgent touch, top them with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a few fresh berries. These brownies are perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress your guests with their rich flavor and beautiful presentation.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in dense brownies. Stir until the ingredients are just combined for the best texture.
• Check for doneness early: Keep an eye on the brownies as they bake, as oven temperatures vary. Start checking at the 30-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
• Chill for cleaner cuts: Let the brownies cool completely before cutting them. If you’re in a hurry, you can chill them in the fridge for a bit to make slicing easier.
• Use high-quality ingredients: For the best flavor, use good-quality butter, cream cheese, and cocoa powder.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are the perfect dessert for any occasion. They combine the rich, chocolatey goodness of brownies with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, all while offering a stunning marbled appearance that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a delicious treat, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. The best part is, with a few simple steps and beginner-friendly tips, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a professional bakery. So go ahead, give these brownies a try—you won’t be disappointed!