If you’re looking for a treat that’s as stunning as it is delicious, these Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl are the perfect choice. Fudgy, chocolaty brownies meet a luscious, tangy cream cheese swirl to create a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to indulge in something sweet, these brownies have got you covered.
Ready to get baking? Let’s dive in!
Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl
Try these Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl! Fudgy red velvet brownies topped with a luscious cream cheese swirl for a perfect blend of flavors.
Ingredients
For the Red Velvet Brownies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness
- A handful of chopped nuts for a bit of crunch
Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan: Substitute eggs with flax eggs 1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg, use vegan butter, and a plant-based cream cheese.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Prepare the Red Velvet Brownie Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until well combined.
- Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, and gently fold until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. If using, fold in chocolate chips or nuts.
Make the Cream Cheese Swirl
- In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Brownies
- Pour the red velvet brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Drop dollops of the cream cheese mixture on top of the brownie batter.
- Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Bake the Brownies
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs.
- Be careful not to overbake.
Cool and Serve
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
- Lift them out using the parchment paper overhang, then cut into squares.
- Enjoy these Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl for a decadent dessert or snack!
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Brownie):
- Calories: 150-180
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
Notes/Advice:
- Additions/Subtractions:
- Adjust the amount of red food coloring for a more vibrant or subtle red velvet color.
- If you want extra tanginess in the cream cheese swirl, add a teaspoon of lemon juice.
- For fudgier brownies, slightly underbake them, as they will continue to set as they cool.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chip Red Velvet Brownies: Stir 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the brownie batter for extra richness.
- Nutty Red Velvet Brownies: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a little crunch.
- Valentine’s Day Brownies: Add heart-shaped sprinkles on top for a festive look.
Suggestions:
- Serving Ideas: These brownies are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra indulgent treat.
- Make It Ahead: You can make the brownies up to 2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Wrapping It Up:
And there you have it—Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl that are rich, fudgy, and beautifully marbled! These brownies are the ultimate indulgent treat, combining the classic flavors of red velvet with the creamy tang of cheesecake. Whether you’re baking for a party, a special occasion, or just to treat yourself, these brownies are sure to impress. So preheat that oven, get swirling, and enjoy every delicious bite!