Description
Delight in these rich and moist Red Velvet Brownies with a luscious Cream Cheese Swirl, perfect for festive occasions or a decadent treat. This easy-to-make dessert combines classic red velvet flavor with a creamy, tangy swirl baked to perfection in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and clean edges.
- Mix brownie batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract; whisk until the mixture is fully combined and vibrant red. Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder to incorporate the classic red velvet chocolate flavor. Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt just until no dry streaks remain, being careful not to overmix to maintain tenderness.
- Spread batter in pan: Pour and spread the red velvet batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a smooth surface.
- Prepare cream cheese swirl: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, free of lumps.
- Add cream cheese dollops and swirl: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter to create a marbled, decorative effect that will bake into the brownies.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center— it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Cool and serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. For cleaner slices, chill the brownies for about 1 hour before cutting into 9 squares. Enjoy!
Notes
- For clean slices, chill the brownies for 1 hour before cutting to firm up the cream cheese swirl.
- Use gel food coloring to achieve a more vibrant and true red velvet color.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
