If you’re daydreaming of the perfect mashup between two iconic desserts, the Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is the ultimate sweet treat you need to try. Fusing the tender cocoa-rich goodness of red velvet brownies and the creamy, tangy charm of cheesecake, these brownies deliver a stunning swirl and an utterly luscious bite. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, need a show-stopping treat for a potluck, or simply want a little baking joy, this recipe is a surefire way to impress everyone.

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of simple ingredients transform into such an eye-catching, decadent dessert. Each item below brings something special—richness, flavor, gorgeous color, or that signature texture—to make this Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe really shine!

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds moisture and beautiful richness to the brownie base.
Granulated sugar (1 cup + 1/4 cup): Sweetens both the brownie and cheesecake layers, making every bite irresistible.
Large eggs (2 for brownie, 1 for cheesecake): Bind all the ingredients and contribute to that soft, chewy texture.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon for brownie, 1/2 teaspoon for cheesecake): Brings warmth and complementary flavor to both layers.
Red food coloring (1 tablespoon): Brings out that classic, vibrant red velvet look that always wows.
Cocoa powder (1 tablespoon): Lends just the right amount of chocolate flavor for a truly authentic red velvet base.
All-purpose flour (3/4 cup): The backbone of the brownies, providing just the right structure.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Heightens all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Key to that decadent, creamy cheesecake swirl.

How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This little trick keeps your brownies from sticking and makes slicing and serving a total breeze.

Step 2: Whip Up the Red Velvet Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and one cup of sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and the vibrant red food coloring, mixing until everything is beautifully combined. Next, sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gently fold the dry mix into the wet—just until incorporated. Don’t overmix if you want that iconic fudgy brownie edge!

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of sugar until creamy and luscious. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then continue mixing until smooth and lump-free. This layer should be silky but thick enough to swirl effortlessly.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Pour about three-quarters of your red velvet brownie batter into your prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Carefully pour the cheesecake layer over that, coaxing it gently to the edges. Now, drop spoonfuls of the remaining red velvet batter on top, and use a knife or toothpick to swirl everything together for that stunning marbled finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean—just a few moist crumbs is what you’re after.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Let your brownies cool completely in the pan, set on a wire rack. For the cleanest, prettiest pieces, pop them into the fridge for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Once chilled, lift the brownies out using your parchment overhang and slice them into neat squares. Whether you enjoy them as-is or with a finishing touch (see below for ideas), your Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is ready to wow.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

These brownies are gorgeous on their own, but a little flourish never hurts! Try dusting them with powdered sugar, adding a drizzle of melted chocolate, or topping each square with a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries look especially beautiful and add a pop of brightness to your Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe.

Side Dishes

For a truly indulgent dessert experience, pair your brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. A steaming mug of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk also makes a classic combo. If you want something extra special, try serving them alongside a raspberry coulis for an elegant touch.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re sharing these brownies at a party, cut them into mini squares and arrange them on a tiered dessert stand for maximum wow-factor. Alternatively, wrap individual portions in parchment and twine for a beautiful edible gift or bake them in muffin liners for easy, portable treats. However you present them, this Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is guaranteed to catch eyes and win hearts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Thanks to the creamy cheesecake swirl, they keep well for up to five days and stay delightfully moist and fudgy.

Freezing

If you want to save some bars for later, wrap the cooled brownies tightly in plastic wrap then foil, and freeze for up to two months. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

While these brownies are delicious cold, you can microwave an individual piece for about 10 seconds to take the chill off and revive that just-baked softness. If serving a crowd, warm them briefly in a low oven (about 275°F) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I double this Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Just use a 9×13-inch pan and double all the ingredients. Keep an eye on baking time—add 5–10 more minutes if needed until the center is set.

Is there a way to make this recipe without food coloring?

Yes, you can leave out the red food coloring and still enjoy delicious “velvet” cheesecake brownies, though the signature color will be missing. Some natural alternatives include beet powder or natural red food dyes, if desired.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

It’s possible, but the cheesecake layer may be less rich and creamy. Full-fat cream cheese is highly recommended for the most decadent, authentic Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe.

Why do I need to chill the brownies before cutting?

Chilling sets the cheesecake swirl and makes slicing much easier, giving you beautiful, clean squares instead of messy edges. It’s totally worth the wait!

How do I make swirl patterns look perfect?

Use a thin knife or a skewer to gently swirl together the cheesecake and brownie batters. Don’t overdo it—a few graceful figure-eights will yield that gorgeous marbled effect in the Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe a try the next time you want to wow your friends or simply treat yourself. The swirl of flavors and colors is pure magic, and they always disappear faster than I expect. Happy baking!

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 3 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the ultimate treat with these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies. A perfect combination of rich, fudgy red velvet brownies layered with a creamy cheesecake swirl, these decadent brownies are sure to impress.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and 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 mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Sift in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Fold until just combined.
Make the Cheesecake Layer: Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla, beat until creamy.
Assemble the Brownies: Pour 3/4 of brownie batter into pan, top with cheesecake layer, then remaining batter. Swirl with a knife.
Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until set. Cool completely before slicing.
Serve: Slice into squares and enjoy!

Notes

For a cleaner cut, chill the brownies before slicing.
Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 brownie
Calories: 280
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Red Velvet, Cheesecake, Brownies, Dessert, Baking, Decadent