If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that feels both indulgent and festive, look no further than these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies. Combining the rich, fudgy decadence of brownies with the tangy creaminess of cheesecake, these bars bring a stunning swirl of ruby-red color and velvety texture to every bite. Whether for a special occasion or an anytime treat, these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are guaranteed to wow your taste buds and charm anyone lucky enough to try them.

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies is surprisingly easy thanks to straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in taste, texture, and that signature red hue. From luscious cream cheese to rich cocoa powder and a splash of vinegar, these essentials come together to create magic in your kitchen.

Butter: Melted butter adds richness and helps create a fudgy brownie base.
Sugar: Sweetness that balances the tang of the cheesecake and the slight bitterness of cocoa.
Cocoa powder: Provides the deep chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with red velvet.
Red food coloring: Brings the iconic red velvet vibrancy that makes these brownies pop.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
Vinegar: A subtle but crucial ingredient that brightens the red color and adds classic tang.
Eggs: Bind everything together and give structure to both the brownie and cheesecake layers.
Flour: Provides just enough crumb to contrast the moist brownie texture.
Salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavors.
Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer, bringing creamy tang and smoothness.
Additional sugar for cheesecake: Sweetens and balances the cream cheese.
Egg yolk: Adds richness and helps the cheesecake layer set perfectly.

How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Start by warming your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepping your baking pan. Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper or give it a generous grease to ensure those brownies won’t stick. This prep sets the stage for a flawless bake.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth and fragrant. Then, add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition to create a silky batter. Fold in the flour and salt gently until no streaks remain, being careful not to overmix. Reserve about 1/4 cup of this batter for the swirling magic ahead. Spread the rest evenly into your prepared pan for the brownie base.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until you achieve a luxuriously smooth and creamy mixture. This tangy cheesecake layer is what sets these brownies apart, adding richness and a unique swirl of flavor.

Step 4: Assemble & Swirl

Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter. Then, drop dollops of the reserved brownie batter on top of the cheesecake layer. Gently use a toothpick or a butter knife to swirl the brownie batter into the cheesecake, creating beautiful marbled patterns. Remember, less is more here—delicate swirling preserves the integrity of both layers visually and flavor-wise.

Step 5: Bake

Bake your creation for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are firmly set but the center still jiggles slightly when nudged. This gentle wobble means you’ll get a perfectly fudgy texture once cooled. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. To ensure clean slices, refrigerate them for a bit after cooling—the chill helps firm up both layers beautifully.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Garnishes

These brownies wow on their own, but a touch of garnish takes them from delightful to downright decadent. Sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar to hint at snowy sweetness or add fresh berries on top to brighten flavors and add a juicy contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies with a scoop of rich vanilla or cream cheese ice cream to add cool creaminess. A drizzle of warm chocolate or tart raspberry sauce complements the flavors, while a strong cup of espresso or steaming hot coffee provides the perfect bitterness to balance the sweet.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive party, serve these brownies on a tiered dessert stand to show off their stunning marbled appearance. Cut into small bite-size squares for easy sharing, or layer them between graham crackers and extra cream cheese frosting to create red velvet cheesecake brownie sandwiches. Presentation can be as playful as the flavors!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies fresh by placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay perfectly moist and flavorful for up to five days, making them a great option for an easy grab-and-go dessert during the week.

Freezing

If you need to save them for longer, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Stored this way, they can last up to two months. When you’re ready for a treat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Enjoy these brownies chilled or warmed up slightly for a gooey, just-baked feel. Pop individual squares into the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or let them come to room temperature for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Doubling the recipe works perfectly. Use a 9×13 inch pan and expect to bake for about 5 to 10 minutes longer—just keep an eye on that familiar slight jiggle in the center.

Do I need red food coloring?

You don’t have to use red food coloring, but it truly delivers the classic red velvet appearance. If you’d prefer natural options, beet powder is a wonderful alternative that adds color and subtle earthiness.

Can I use boxed brownie mix?

Yes, you can! Prepare the brownie base following the package instructions and then add the cheesecake swirl on top before baking. While convenient, homemade batter tends to offer a richer taste and better texture for these brownies.

How do I know when they’re done?

The best indicator is the edge setting combined with the center still showing a slight jiggle when nudged. This ensures a fudgy consistency without overbaking, as the brownies will firm up while cooling.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Definitely! Swap out the butter for vegan butter and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This keeps the luscious texture and flavor while accommodating dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies manage to be both stunning and approachable—a true crowd-pleaser that’s just waiting to become a new favorite. Whether you’re bringing them to a family gathering or sneaking a slice for yourself, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and sweet memories. Go ahead, give it a go, and savour every rich, creamy swirl!

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 17 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies (2-inch squares) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies combine the rich, moist texture of classic red velvet brownies with a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer swirled on top. Perfectly marbled and visually stunning, these decadent treats are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, offering a luscious blend of flavors with a hint of cocoa and a creamy cheese swirl.

Instructions

Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Make the Brownie Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the flour and salt just until combined. Reserve 1/4 cup of the batter for swirling and spread the remaining batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
Assemble & Swirl: Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter. Drop dollops of the reserved brownie batter on top of the cheesecake layer. Using a toothpick or knife, gently swirl the brownie dollops into the cheesecake for a marbled effect without over-mixing.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. For cleaner slices, chill in the refrigerator before cutting.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
Don’t skip the vinegar; it enhances the red velvet flavor and color.
Cool brownies completely before cutting to get clean, even bars.
You can substitute vegan butter and dairy-free cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
Try adding white chocolate chips or chopped pecans for extra texture.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American