Name: Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon red food coloring; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Craving a dessert that’s both decadent and delightful? Look no further! This Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe combines the fudgy goodness of red velvet brownies with the creamy tang of cheesecake for an irresistible treat. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Inspired by classic American baking, these brownies are sure to become a new favorite. Let’s dive into this amazing recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience! Here’s why you’ll fall in love with them:

Fudgy brownie base: A rich, decadent brownie that melts in your mouth.
Creamy cheesecake swirl: A tangy and smooth cheesecake layer that perfectly complements the brownie.
Easy to make: Simple steps and readily available ingredients.
Impressive presentation: Beautiful red and white swirls that look as good as they taste.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties, gatherings, and celebrations.
Versatile: Adaptable with different toppings and variations to suit your taste.
Comforting flavors: The classic combination of red velvet and cheesecake is simply irresistible.

Prepare to impress everyone with these irresistible brownies!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create these stunning Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies. Don’t worry; it’s all pretty straightforward!

For the Brownie Layer:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted (113g)
1 cup granulated sugar (200g): Adds sweetness and moisture.
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (40g): For that rich chocolate flavor.
1/4 teaspoon baking powder (1g): Helps the brownies rise slightly.
1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5g): Enhances the flavors.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml): Adds a warm, aromatic note.
1 large egg (50g): Binds the ingredients together.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g): Provides structure to the brownies.
1 tablespoon red food coloring (15ml): For the signature red velvet color.

For the Cheesecake Layer:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened (226g): The base for our creamy cheesecake layer. Make sure it’s softened for a smooth batter.
1/3 cup granulated sugar (67g): Sweetens the cheesecake.
1 large egg (50g): Helps bind the cheesecake layer.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5ml): Adds a touch of vanilla flavor.

For best results, use high-quality ingredients. You can find great vanilla extract at most specialty food stores.

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Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes baking these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

- 8×8 inch baking pan: For perfectly portioned brownies.
- Mixing bowls: To prepare the brownie and cheesecake batters separately.
- Electric mixer: Makes creaming the cream cheese much easier.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.

Red velvet cheesecake brownies, swirled together.

Spatula: To spread the batter evenly and scrape the bowls clean.

A good quality baking pan ensures even heat distribution for consistent baking. If you don’t have an electric mixer, you can use a whisk, but it will require more effort.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 9 squares
Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is easy to scale up if you need to make a larger batch. Just adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies. Let’s get baking!

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan to prevent sticking. This ensures your brownies come out cleanly.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. This forms the base of your red velvet flavor.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Stir in the vanilla extract and egg until well combined. Make sure there are no streaks of egg yolk remaining. These wet ingredients help bind the dry ingredients together.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Color

Add the flour and red food coloring. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. The red food coloring gives the brownies their signature red velvet hue.

Step 5: Pour into Pan

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Use a spatula to ensure the batter reaches all corners. This creates a uniform brownie base.

Step 6: Make the Cheesecake Batter

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps for a perfect texture.

Step 7: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be light and airy.

Step 8: Swirl the Cheesecake

Gently spread the cheesecake batter over the brownie batter. Use a knife or toothpick to create swirls. This adds a beautiful visual element and ensures the cheesecake is evenly distributed.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the brownies. The baking time may vary depending on your oven.

Step 10: Cool and Cut

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows the cheesecake layer to set properly, and ensures clean cuts. Patience is key!

CHECK OUT: The Best Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites – Another great treat to bake for parties!

Tips for Success

Here are some insider tips to ensure your Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies turn out perfectly every time:

Don’t overmix: Overmixing the brownie batter can result in tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
Use softened cream cheese: This ensures a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer.
Swirl gently: Avoid over-swirling, as this can muddy the colors.
Cool completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting to prevent them from crumbling.
Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. It should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

If your brownies are browning too quickly, tent the pan with foil during the last few minutes of baking.

Close-up of a fudgy red velvet brownie topped with cheesecake.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to put your own spin on these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies? Here are a few ideas:

Chocolate chips: Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra chocolate flavor.
Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for added crunch.
White chocolate: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled brownies for a beautiful contrast.
Extracts: Experiment with different extracts, such as almond or peppermint, for a unique flavor twist.

For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate the experience:

Vanilla ice cream: Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Whipped cream: Top with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
Fresh berries: Garnish with fresh raspberries or strawberries.
Coffee: Pair with a cup of hot coffee for a perfect dessert combination.

These brownies are perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or any special occasion.

Health Benefits

While these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are a treat, they do offer some nutritional value. Cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants, and cream cheese provides calcium. Additionally, eggs are a good source of protein. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet!

Storage & Reheating

To keep your Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the brownies from being too dry?

Make sure not to overbake the brownies. Check for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar in the brownie batter for a richer, molasses-like flavor.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! These brownies can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What can I use instead of red food coloring?

Beet juice can be used as a natural alternative, though it may slightly alter the taste and color.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double this recipe. Just use a larger baking pan, such as a 9×13 inch pan, and increase the baking time accordingly.

How do I get a clean cheesecake swirl?

Use a toothpick or knife and gently swirl the cheesecake batter into the brownie batter. Avoid over-swirling, as this can muddy the colors.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 350
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total Carbohydrate: 40g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 25g
Protein: 5g

These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For precise values, use a nutrition calculator.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more delectable baked goods? Check out these other tempting recipes:

Blueberry Cheesecake Swirl Rolls – A delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls with a creamy cheesecake filling.
Best Raspberry Swirl Brownies Recipe – Fudgy brownies swirled with tangy raspberry jam.
Cinnamon Roll Blondies – Sweet and chewy blondies with a swirl of cinnamon goodness.

Conclusion

These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful combination of fudgy brownie and creamy cheesecake. Fast, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece!

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Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe