Red velvet cheesecake brownies combine the best of two classic desserts: the rich and velvety allure of red velvet cake and the creamy decadence of cheesecake.

With their vibrant red hue and swirled cheesecake topping, these brownies are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a stunning visual centerpiece for any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Combination of Flavors: The tangy cream cheese swirl complements the subtle cocoa flavor of the red velvet base, creating a balance of sweetness and richness.
Visually Stunning: The vibrant red color and intricate swirls make these brownies a showstopper on any dessert table.
Simple Yet Elegant: Despite their fancy appearance, these brownies are surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and some creativity.
Customizable for Any Occasion: Add sprinkles, edible glitter, or holiday-themed decorations to make them suitable for any celebration.

Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Layer:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1/4 cup cocoa powder
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Swirl:

8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Red Velvet Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a smooth batter forms. Set aside.

2. Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until the mixture is well combined. The cheesecake batter should be smooth and lump-free.

3. Assemble the Brownies

Pour the red velvet batter into the prepared baking pan, reserving about 1/4 cup of the batter for the swirl. Spread the batter evenly across the pan.
Dollop the cheesecake mixture on top of the red velvet batter, then use a knife or skewer to create swirls by dragging it through both layers. Add small dollops of the reserved red velvet batter on top of the cheesecake layer and incorporate them into the swirl for a beautiful marbled effect.

4. Bake and Cool

Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing. Cooling ensures clean cuts and helps the layers set properly.

Variations

Festive Additions: Sprinkle red and white heart-shaped sprinkles on top of the brownies before baking for a Valentine’s Day treat.
Chocolate Drizzle: Once the brownies are cooled, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the top for added decadence.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
Nutty Crunch: Add a layer of chopped pecans or walnuts between the red velvet and cheesecake layers for a delightful crunch.

FAQs

Can I use a different food coloring?
Yes, you can use gel or natural food coloring instead of liquid. Adjust the quantity to achieve the desired color intensity.

How do I store these brownies?
Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze the brownies?
Absolutely! Wrap individual brownie slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

What if I don’t have white vinegar?
You can substitute white vinegar with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Both will help activate the cocoa and enhance the red velvet flavor.

How to Serve

As a Dessert Platter: Arrange the brownies on a decorative plate with fresh strawberries or raspberries for added color and flavor.
With Ice Cream: Pair these rich brownies with a scoop of vanilla or cream cheese ice cream for a luxurious dessert experience.
Gift-Worthy Treats: Package the brownies in a festive box lined with parchment paper for a thoughtful homemade gift.