Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

Introduction

Red velvet brownies are a delightful twist on the classic treat, combining rich cocoa flavor with a vibrant red hue and a creamy cream cheese swirl. These brownies offer a perfect balance of fudgy and creamy textures that make them irresistible for any occasion.

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

1. 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.
2. 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, mixing well to combine.
3. Step 3: Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and creamy.
5. 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 knife to create a marbled effect.
6. Step 6: Repeat the layering with the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture, swirling again to create a pattern.
7. Step 7: Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
8. Step 8: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

• Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red color without adding extra liquid to the batter.
• For a richer cream cheese layer, add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture.
• Swap the all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.
• Try adding mini chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra texture and chocolate flavor.

Storage

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To enjoy chilled brownies, let them come to room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, these brownies can be made a day or two in advance and kept refrigerated. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving for the best texture.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you don’t have cream cheese, you can try ricotta cheese or mascarpone as substitutes, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan cream cheese alternative.

Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.5 from 51 reviews

• Author: Victor
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies (8×8 inch pan) 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these rich and moist Red Velvet Brownies featuring a luscious cream cheese swirl. Combining the deep cocoa flavor with vibrant red coloring and a creamy texture, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Make brownie batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring; mix thoroughly. Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until the batter is well combined but not overmixed.
3. Prepare cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy to achieve the perfect swirl consistency.
4. Assemble: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture over the batter and lightly swirl it through with a knife. Repeat by layering the remaining brownie batter and cream cheese mixture, swirling again for a marbled effect.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached, indicating the brownies are set but still moist.
6. Cool & serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. For an elegant finish, optionally dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.

Notes

• Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the swirl.
• Adjust red food coloring quantity to achieve your preferred intensity of red color.
• Use parchment paper in the pan for easier removal and cleaner edges.
• Do not overbake to keep the brownies moist and fudgy.
• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies, Fudgy Red Velvet Dessert, Homemade Brownies, Valentine’s Day Dessert