Red Velvet Brownies with Cheesecake (Printer-Friendly)
Fudgy red velvet base topped with a creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl; chill before slicing.
# What You'll Need:
→ Red Velvet Brownie Layer
01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
05 - 1 tablespoon red food coloring
06 - 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
07 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Cheesecake Layer
09 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
10 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
11 - 1 large egg
12 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 x 8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for lifting.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until glossy. Incorporate eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until smooth.
03 - Sift in all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold gently with a spatula until just combined. Spread three-quarters of the red velvet batter evenly in prepared pan, reserving remaining batter.
04 - In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until creamy. Blend in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth and homogenous.
05 - Pour cheesecake mixture over red velvet base, spreading gently. Dollop reserved red velvet batter over the top and create swirls with a knife or skewer for a marbled finish.
06 - Bake for 33 to 37 minutes until the center is set and a toothpick inserted emerges with a few moist crumbs.
07 - Allow pan to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- There is something irresistibly clever about the cheesecake layer—like a secret surprise tucked into each bite.
- I can honestly say these brownies make every gathering just a little bit more special.
02 -
- Once, I tried cutting before chilling, and the cheesecake layer smeared everywhere; patience is key.
- Discovering the right swirling motion with a skewer makes all the difference for that pretty marbled look.
03 -
- Swirl with a light hand and don’t overmix, or you’ll lose the dramatic marbled stripes.
- A sprinkle of mini chocolate chips over the brownie layer makes them taste almost like gourmet truffles.