Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup (115g) melted butter
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp red food coloring
- 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free baking mix)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened (use plant-based cream cheese for vegan version)
- 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan version)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: Start by melting the butter and mixing it with brown sugar and eggs until smooth and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract and red food coloring to get that signature bright red color, then sift in flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Mix gently until fully combined but avoid overmixing to keep the batter tender and fudgy.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and an egg. This creates a silky cheesecake mixture that will contrast beautifully with the fudgy brownie batter.
- Assemble the Brownies: Pour half of the red velvet brownie batter into a lined baking pan. Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture on top, then add the remaining brownie batter. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers together to create a marbled effect.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the brownies in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 40-45 minutes or until the cheesecake layer is set and the top starts to crack slightly. Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into them to preserve their beautiful layers.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to create a smoother batter and better mixing results.
- Don’t overmix the cheesecake layer; beat just until smooth to avoid cracks.
- Swirl carefully to keep the layers distinct and pretty.
- Check doneness early by testing with a toothpick starting at 35 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Cool completely and refrigerate for at least an hour after baking for clean cuts and enhanced flavor fusion.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free flour)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (1/16th of recipe)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Keywords: Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies, Red Velvet, Cheesecake, Brownies, Dessert, Gluten Free Option, Fudgy Brownies