Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl

A Decadent Delight to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

There’s something utterly enchanting about red velvet desserts, isn’t there? Their striking color and rich flavor invite you to indulge. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that combines the classic appeal of red velvet with the fudgy goodness of brownies. Meet the Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl—a dessert that’s not just a feast for the eyes but a delight for the taste buds!

Did you know that the origins of red velvet cake can be traced back to the Victorian era? These brownies take that timeless treat and give it a contemporary twist. What makes this dessert stand out is its creamy swirl of tangy cream cheese, which balances the sweetness perfectly, creating a harmonious blend that your family will adore.

If you love other indulgent desserts, like our rich chocolate lava cake, you’re in for a real treat with these brownies. They’re simple to whip up, making them a perfect choice for any family gathering or casual get-together. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to impress your loved ones!

What Are Red Velvet Brownies?

Now, let me ask you: have you ever wondered why something so delicious is called “red velvet”? Is it the color, the texture, or perhaps the flavor? The name indeed evokes a sense of luxury and decadence. Interestingly, some say it refers to the cake’s soft, smooth crumb contrasting the vibrant hue that captures attention.

I remember the first time I encountered red velvet— I thought it was just chocolate masked in red. But when I took a bite, I realized it was an entirely different blissful experience! Much like the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” these brownies are sure to win over everyone in your kitchen. So why not try your hand at these Red Velvet Brownies? Your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love These Red Velvet Brownies

There are a few reasons these Red Velvet Brownies will find their way into your regular dessert rotation. First, the standout feature is the velvety texture that melts in your mouth, delivering a burst of cocoa flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy cream cheese.

Secondly, making these brownies at home is a cost-saving move compared to ordering dessert at a fancy café. You get to enjoy that bakery-quality taste without breaking the bank! Lastly, the addition of chocolate chips and cream cheese elevates the flavor profile, making every bite new and exciting.

Is your mouth watering yet? If you love these, you might also want to check out our luscious chocolate chip cookie recipe, which is another crowd-pleaser!

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies

Quick Overview

These Red Velvet Brownies are not only easy to make, but they’re also utterly satisfying. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and bake time of 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time. The best part? They’re incredibly forgiving, making them suitable even for kitchen novices.

Key Ingredients for Red Velvet Brownies

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 extra egg (for cream cheese mixture)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined. Add in the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Beat until smooth. Then stir in the red food coloring and chocolate chips.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Swirl: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and the extra egg until smooth and creamy.
5. Layer in the Pan: Pour half of the brownie batter into your greased pan, then add dollops of the cream cheese mixture on top. Swirl lightly with a knife. Add the remaining brownie batter on top, and swirl again for a marbled effect.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool and Enjoy: Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your luscious treat!

What to Serve Red Velvet Brownies With

These Red Velvet Brownies are delightful on their own, but why not elevate your dessert experience? Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic sundae, or serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. A drizzle of chocolate or cream cheese icing can also enhance their visual appeal and taste!

Top Tips for Perfecting Red Velvet Brownies

1. Use High-Quality Cocoa: This will enhance the chocolate flavor, making your brownies taste more decadent.
2. Watch the Baking Time: Overbaking can lead to dry brownies, so keep an eye on them in the last few minutes.
3. Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, ensure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
4. Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to mix in nuts, white chocolate chips, or even a splash of espresso for a unique flavor twist.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover Red Velvet Brownies in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They can last up to 3 days at room temperature or can be refrigerated for a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil. They can last for up to three months in the freezer! To reheat, simply place a brownie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked feel.

Indulging in Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl is a guaranteed way to uplift anybody’s mood. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create something delicious today! You won’t regret it!

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl

A decadent dessert that combines the classic appeal of red velvet with a creamy cream cheese swirl, delivering a rich and indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Brownie Batter

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted Ensure butter is melted but not too hot.
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 large eggs Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour Sifted before measuring.
• 1 cup cocoa powder Use high-quality cocoa for best results.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring Adjust based on desired color intensity.
• 1 cup chocolate chips Optional for added texture.

For the Cream Cheese Swirl

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened Best if at room temperature.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 extra egg For cream cheese mixture.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined.
3. Add in the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until smooth.
5. Stir in the red food coloring and chocolate chips.

Cream Cheese Swirl

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and the extra egg until smooth and creamy.

Assembly and Baking

1. Pour half of the brownie batter into the greased pan. Add dollops of the cream cheese mixture on top and swirl lightly with a knife.
2. Add the remaining brownie batter on top and swirl again for a marbled effect.
3. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
4. Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Notes

For best taste, serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or 1 week refrigerated.