There’s something utterly enchanting about the combination of red velvet cake and rich cheesecake, and today, I’m excited to share a slice of that magic with you. These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are not just a dessert; they’re a heartfelt indulgence perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to romantic dinners.
As I whisk together the velvety red batter, I can’t help but smile at how easily it transforms into an irresistible treat with a luscious cream cheese swirl. Just imagine the moment when you take that first bite; the rich, fudgy brownie meets the tangy cheesecake layer, creating a delightful harmony that dances on your palate.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something special, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines ease with elegance. So, let’s dive in and whip up these decadent Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies that are sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet cravings!
Why love Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies?
Indulgence Awaits: These brownies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake, offering a luxurious dessert experience.
Effortless Elegance: With easy-to-follow steps, even novice bakers can create these showstoppers.
Delightful Versatility: They make a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual get-together.
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet tang of cheesecake complements the deep, chocolaty goodness of red velvet beautifully.
Make Ahead: You can prepare these brownies in advance, making them a great option for busy hosts.
Treat yourself or your loved ones to these delightful bites that are sure to impress!
Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
• Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup or 1 1/2 sticks) – Adds richness and moisture; do not substitute with salted butter.
• Semisweet Chocolate Chips (4 oz.) – Provide chocolate flavor; can substitute with dark or milk chocolate chips for different sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup or 200 g.) – Sweetens the brownies; no direct substitutes suggested.
• Light Brown Sugar (1/2 cup or 110 g.) – Adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor; can substitute with coconut sugar for a different taste.
• Large Eggs (2) – Binds ingredients; using room temperature eggs ensures better incorporation.
• Pure Vanilla Extract (2 tsp.) – Enhances flavor; can substitute with almond extract for a twist.
• Red Food Coloring (2 tsp.) – Provides the signature red color; gel-based food coloring is recommended for vibrant results.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup or 120 g.) – Gives structure to the brownies; for gluten-free, consider a gluten-free flour blend.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (3 Tbsp.) – Deepens chocolate flavor; Dutch-process cocoa can provide a smoother taste.
• Kosher Salt (1 tsp.) – Balances sweetness; regular table salt can be used as an alternative.
For the Cheesecake Layer
• Cream Cheese (8 oz.) – Creates the cheesecake layer; ensure it is at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup or 50 g.) – Sweetens the cream cheese; can be replaced with powdered sugar for a smoother consistency.
Get ready to delight in the rich and satisfying flavors of these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies!
How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by greasing it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
-
Melt the unsalted butter and semisweet chocolate together in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Once melted, stir in both granulated and light brown sugar until well combined.
-
Add the large eggs and pure vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture, mixing until the batter is smooth. Then, blend in the red food coloring until you achieve a vibrant hue.
-
Sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and kosher salt in a separate bowl. Fold this dry mixture into the wet batter gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
-
Mix the cream cheese with the granulated sugar in another bowl until creamy and smooth. Set this mixture aside while you prepare to assemble the brownies.
-
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Next, spread the cream cheese mixture over the brownie base, followed by layering the remaining brownie batter on top.
-
Swirl a knife through the layers to create a beautiful marbled effect, then bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
-
Cool the brownies in the pan; once cooled, cut them into squares for serving. Enjoy the rich, fudgy texture with the luscious cheesecake layer!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
- Cool Completely: Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting to achieve clean, even pieces. This ensures a tidy presentation and delicious first bite.
- Room Temperature Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth cheesecake layer. Cold cream cheese can result in lumps that disrupt the texture.
- Measure Carefully: Use a kitchen scale if possible to measure your ingredients precisely. Incorrect measurements can lead to unexpected texture or flavor in your Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies.
- Don’t Overmix: When incorporating dry ingredients into the wet mixture, fold gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough brownies.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. The brownies should have a slight wiggle in the center when they’re done.
- Store Right: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. These brownies stay delicious for several days, making them perfect for snacking!
Variations & Substitutions for Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
Take a moment to explore these fun and delightful twists that will personalize your brownies and make them uniquely yours!
-
White Chocolate Chips:
Incorporate white chocolate chips into the batter for a creamy, sweet surprise within each bite, enhancing the overall flavor. -
Natural Food Colors:
Swap red food coloring for natural dyes like beet juice or spirulina for a vibrant, unique hue without artificial additives. -
Nutty Addition:
Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the moist, smooth texture of the brownies. -
Fruity Flavor:
Use raspberry or strawberry extract instead of vanilla for a fruity twist that adds a refreshing layer of flavor to your brownies. -
Dark Chocolate Boost:
Substitute semisweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor that chocolate lovers will adore. -
Coconut Sugar:
For a more caramelized flavor, switch out light brown sugar with coconut sugar in the brownie base. -
Gluten-Free Option:
Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family. -
Spicy Kick:
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the brownie mix for an unexpected but delightful heat that balances the sweetness wonderfully.
Embrace your creativity and feel free to experiment with these variations to create your perfect Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies!
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and storing it in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cream cheese mixture can be prepped and kept chilled for up to 3 days; just ensure it’s covered tightly to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the layers and swirl them together as directed in the recipe. This way, you’ll have a fresh, decadent dessert ready to bake with minimal effort, while still achieving that irresistible, fudgy texture and creamy cheesecake swirl!
What to Serve with Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies?
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these tantalizing brownies with delightful accompaniments that enhance their rich flavor.
-
Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries balances the sweetness of the brownies, creating a refreshing contrast with every bite. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a charming presentation.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully into the warm brownies, creating an irresistible blend of textures that feels like a hug for your taste buds. The coolness of the ice cream complements the richness perfectly.
-
Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate adds an extra layer of indulgence, intensifying the chocolatey goodness. It’s a quick touch that makes a big impact on the overall presentation.
-
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream serves as a dreamy counterpoint to the fudgy texture of the brownies. A dollop on top enhances both visual appeal and flavor, inviting guests to dive right in.
-
Espresso or Coffee: A hot cup of coffee enhances the chocolate and red velvet flavors, making this pairing truly comforting. The slight bitterness of the coffee contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness, stimulating your palate.
-
Cream Cheese Frosting: Elevate the cheesecake layer by adding a light frosting on top. A velvety layer of cream cheese frosting takes the dessert to new heights while maintaining the original flavor essence.
-
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce introduces a sweet, buttery richness that plays perfectly with the chocolate and cheesecake layers. It’s a decadent touch that will mesmerize everyone at the table.
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best texture and flavor.
Fridge: Brownies can be refrigerated for up to 1 week. Ensure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: Enjoy chilled or gently reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their fudgy texture without overcooking.
Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe FAQs
What kind of food coloring should I use for Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies?
I recommend using gel-based food coloring for the best results! Gel food coloring provides a vibrant hue without adding too much liquid to the batter, which could affect the texture.
How should I store Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies after baking?
To maintain freshness, keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week in a well-sealed container to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then cover with aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge before serving.
My brownies seem too dense; what went wrong?
Dense brownies may result from overmixing the batter or incorrect ingredient measurements. When combining dry ingredients, fold gently until just incorporated. Additionally, make sure not to pack the flour too tightly when measuring—lightly spoon it into your measuring cup.
Can my pets enjoy leftovers from Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies?
No, it’s best not to share brownies with pets. Ingredients like chocolate and sugar can be harmful to animals. Always keep human treats out of reach from furry friends!
What should I do if my cream cheese layer has lumps?
If your cream cheese is not soft enough, it can lead to a lumpy filling. Make sure it’s at room temperature before mixing; that way, it blends smoothly with sugar. If you do encounter lumps, you can use an electric mixer for a few more seconds to try and smooth the mixture out.
Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies: Indulge in Pure Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9-inch baking pan by greasing it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Melt the unsalted butter and semisweet chocolate together in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Once melted, stir in both granulated and light brown sugar until well combined.
- Add the large eggs and pure vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture, mixing until the batter is smooth. Then, blend in the red food coloring until you achieve a vibrant hue.
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and kosher salt in a separate bowl. Fold this dry mixture into the wet batter gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Mix the cream cheese with the granulated sugar in another bowl until creamy and smooth. Set this mixture aside while you prepare to assemble the brownies.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Next, spread the cream cheese mixture over the brownie base, followed by layering the remaining brownie batter on top.
- Swirl a knife through the layers to create a beautiful marbled effect, then bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Cool the brownies in the pan; once cooled, cut them into squares for serving. Enjoy the rich, fudgy texture with the luscious cheesecake layer!