Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 1 review

  • Author: Molly
  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 18 brownies

Description

These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of chocolate brownies with a creamy cheesecake layer swirled throughout, creating an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

For the Brownies

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon red gel food coloring
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour

For the Cheesecake

  • 1 package (8 ounce) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 or 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper and set aside.
  2. Make brownie batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder. The mixture will be thick. Stir in the red gel food coloring using a wooden spoon.
  3. Add flavorings and eggs: Mix in the vanilla extract, kosher salt, and eggs until the batter becomes smooth.
  4. Incorporate flour: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined to avoid overmixing the batter.
  5. Set aside some batter and pour the rest: Remove about ¼ cup of the brownie batter and set it aside for swirling later. Pour the remaining batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  6. Prepare cheesecake layer: In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, egg, flour, and sugar on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
  7. Layer cheesecake over brownies: Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie layer and smooth the surface.
  8. Add reserved brownie batter dollops: Using a small metal scoop or teaspoon, dollop about 9 scoops of the reserved brownie batter over the cheesecake layer.
  9. Swirl batter and cheesecake: Use a toothpick to gently swirl the brownie dollops and cheesecake mixture together to create a marbled effect.
  10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. The cheesecake center might still appear slightly soft but will set as it cools.
  11. Cool and chill: Allow the brownies to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing to firm up the cheesecake layer.

Notes

  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth cheesecake layer.
  • Use a toothpick gently while swirling to avoid fully mixing the layers.
  • Chilling the brownies after baking helps the cheesecake layer set properly and makes slicing easier.
  • You can substitute red gel food coloring with liquid food coloring, but gel gives a more vibrant color without altering batter consistency.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American