If you love the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake combined with the creamy decadence of cheesecake, you are going to fall head over heels for this Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe. Imagine cutting through moist, tender brownies with a beautiful marbled swirl of luscious cheesecake. It’s a sensational treat that’s perfect for impressing family or friends, or simply indulging yourself on a cozy afternoon. Trust me, these brownies bring together the best of both worlds with an irresistible texture and flavor that will have you hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the ingredient list fool you — these are simple, everyday pantry staples that come together to create a stunning dessert. Each element plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, moisture, and that classic red velvet allure.
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and keeps the brownies moist.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature: Helps bind ingredients and adds structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to both layers.
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring: Gives the brownies their iconic vibrant red hue.
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar: Enhances the tangy flavor and brightens the red velvet taste.
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds subtle chocolate richness essential to red velvet.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour: The foundation for chewy, tender brownies.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake layer providing creamy tang.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer perfectly.
- 1 large egg yolk: Adds richness to the cheesecake filling.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Complements the cream cheese with depth and aroma.
How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides to easily lift the brownies out later. This little step makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your brownies come out perfectly intact every time.
Step 2: Mix the Red Velvet Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and slightly glossy. Then, add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, red food coloring, and white vinegar. Whisk everything until well combined. Now sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt to avoid lumps—gently fold these dry ingredients until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here to keep the brownies tender. Set aside ¼ cup of this batter for the cheesecake marbling.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Grab a small bowl and beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the ¼ cup sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, and continue beating until the mixture is silky and lump-free. This creamy mixture will create that luscious contrast against the rich brownie below.
Step 4: Layer and Swirl the Batter
Pour the majority of the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer in scattered dollops, followed by spoonfuls of the reserved brownie batter. Using a toothpick or a knife, swirl the layers together to create those beautiful marble patterns—feel free to make this as bold or as subtle as you like for a pretty, artisanal look.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your masterpiece in the preheated oven for 28 to 32 minutes. The goal is to have the center set but still moist. When you insert a toothpick, it should come out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it—it’s that perfect fudgy texture. Also, notice how the edges will start to pull away from the pan as a subtle signal your brownies are done.
Step 6: Cool and Chill Before Serving
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan, which allows them to set further. For best slicing results and an even better texture, chill the brownies in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This additional time brings out the flavors while making the bars easier to cut into beautifully clean squares.
How to Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
While these brownies are stunning on their own, a few garnishes can elevate your presentation. Try sprinkling with powdered sugar for a delicate touch or topping with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a festive look, a few red velvet cake crumbs or white chocolate shavings add both texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce. Fresh berries on the side provide a tart freshness that balances the richness, turning your plate into a refined dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve your Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe as mini bites on a decorative platter at a party, or layer cut brownies with whipped cream and berries in a glass for elegant brownie parfaits. Even stacking a few squares with a sprinkle of cocoa powder can make for an irresistible treat that invites second helpings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled and sliced, store your brownies in an airtight container to keep them moist and flavorful. They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Chilling actually enhances the cheesecake flavor, so leftovers are a delicious bonus.
Freezing
To enjoy these decadent brownies later, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without sacrificing quality. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies slightly warm, gently heat them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. This revives the moist, gooey texture that makes the Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone?
Absolutely! Mascarpone will give the cheesecake layer a slightly richer and creamier texture, which pairs beautifully with the red velvet brownies. Just keep the quantities the same for the best results.
Why is vinegar included in this Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe?
The vinegar reacts with the baking soda in traditional red velvet recipes to enhance the deep red color and provide that classic tangy note, which complements the sweet and creamy components perfectly.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to maintain the right texture.
How do I know when the brownies are baked through?
Look for edges that just start pulling away from the pan and a center that feels set but still slightly soft. When you insert a toothpick, it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Can I use natural cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?
Yes! Just keep in mind that natural cocoa powder is more acidic and may slightly affect the color and flavor. The vinegar helps balance this acidity in the recipe.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about this Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe that transforms a simple dessert into a showstopper. The combination of tender red velvet brownies swirled with creamy cheesecake is nothing short of delightful. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just need a sweet pick-me-up, these brownies will not disappoint. So grab your ingredients and give it a go—you’re going to love every bite as much as I do!
Print
Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes plus 1 hour chilling
- Yield: 9 to 12 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are a luscious blend of rich, moist red velvet brownie swirled with creamy cheesecake. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they deliver a beautiful marbled effect and a delightful combination of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Swirl
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the brownies out later.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and white vinegar; whisk again until smooth. Sift in cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt, then gently fold the ingredients until just combined. Reserve ¼ cup of this batter for swirling later.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Layer and Swirl: Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Dollop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the batter, followed by spoonfuls of the reserved brownie batter. Use a toothpick or knife to carefully swirl the mixtures together, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes. The brownies are done when the center is set, edges begin to pull away from the pan, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For best results, chill them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing into 9 to 12 squares.
Notes
- Using room temperature eggs helps the batter mix more uniformly.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to prevent lumps in the cheesecake mixture.
- Do not overmix the brownie batter when combining dry and wet ingredients to keep brownies tender.
- Swirling creates a beautiful marbled look – be gentle and creative with the swirling motion.
- Chilling before slicing helps the brownies hold their shape and enhances flavors.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
