There is something irresistibly delightful about the rich, moist texture of brownies combined with the unmistakable charm of red velvet flavor and velvety cream cheese swirls. This Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe is a perfect marriage of decadent chocolate and tangy cream cheese, with a stunning red hue that makes every bite feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party, a cozy night in, or just because, these beauties are sure to impress and satisfy anyone lucky enough to taste them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a luscious treat. Each component brings something unique—whether it’s the buttery richness, the smooth creaminess of cream cheese, or the vibrant color and subtle cocoa flavor that make these brownies truly stand out.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds deep richness and keeps the brownies wonderfully moist.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key here, balancing flavors and contributing to texture.
- Large egg: Eggs provide structure while keeping the brownies fudgy.
- Red food coloring: This creates that classic red velvet color that makes the brownies so eye-catching.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma and subtle flavor depth.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Brings a hint of chocolate, a crucial counterpoint to the tangy cream cheese.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives these brownies their structure without making them cakey.
- White chocolate chips (optional): These add pockets of creamy sweetness that melt delightfully during baking.
- Cream cheese (softened): Essential for the luscious, tangy swirl that makes this recipe unforgettable.
- Additional granulated sugar for swirl: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture for perfect balance.
- Egg yolk: Enriches the cream cheese swirl, giving it a smooth and silky texture.
- Vanilla extract for swirl: Pulls the cream cheese flavors together beautifully.
How to Make Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 by 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides. This little trick ensures you can lift the whole batch easily once baked, helping you avoid any brownie breakage when cutting.
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. Next, add the egg, red food coloring, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract — whisk again until the mixture is silky. Sift in the cocoa powder, salt, and flour, then stir just until combined; don’t overmix because you want the brownies tender and fudgy. If you love a little extra sweetness, fold in the white chocolate chips now. They’ll melt into little pockets of gooey delight!
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, egg yolk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This blend is going to add that luscious tang and beautiful marble effect that makes these brownies unforgettable.
Step 4: Assemble the Brownies
Pour the red velvet brownie batter evenly into your prepared dish. Then, dollop the cream cheese mixture across the top in small spoonfuls. Grab a knife or toothpick and gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter in a figure-eight or circular motion — this creates that gorgeous marbled look that everyone will admire before devouring.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when a toothpick poked into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Once out of the oven, let the brownies cool completely in the pan—this step is crucial for clean cuts and that perfect fudgy texture. When cooled, lift them out with the parchment paper and slice into 12 squares.
How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these brownies even more, consider sprinkling a few white chocolate shavings or a light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, pair beautifully with the creamy and tangy notes of the cream cheese swirl. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can also make each serving feel extra special.
Side Dishes
These brownies are delightful on their own but can also be enjoyed alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a cup of rich coffee. Fresh fruit or a simple side salad with citrusy notes can balance the indulgence, especially if you’re serving a crowd.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe on a rustic wooden board alongside other bite-sized desserts for a stunning dessert spread. You can even cut the brownies into smaller squares and serve them as party bites with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Layering these brownies in a clear glass trifle bowl with whipped cream and berries also makes for an impressive visual and a delicious twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your red velvet brownies with cream cheese swirl will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping them in a single layer prevents sticking and preserves their beautiful texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When it’s time to indulge, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To bring your brownies back to that fresh-from-the-oven decadence, warm them gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5-10 minutes. This wakes up the luscious cream cheese swirl and makes every bite feel freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of unsweetened?
Yes, you can, but make sure it’s unsweetened cocoa powder since the recipe balances sweetness separately. Regular cocoa powder with added sugar might make the brownies overly sweet.
What if I don’t have red food coloring? Can I substitute it?
Red food coloring is key for that signature color, but if you don’t have any, a natural alternative like beet juice or powder can work. Just keep in mind it may alter the flavor and intensity of the color slightly.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cream cheese. Keep an eye on the texture since these swaps can affect richness.
Why do my cream cheese swirls disappear when baking?
Swirling gently so the cream cheese stays on top rather than mixing too thoroughly will keep the swirl pattern intact. Also, don’t overbake, as higher heat can make the swirls blend more into the brownie.
Are white chocolate chips necessary?
They’re totally optional but highly recommended! White chocolate chips add delightful bursts of sweetness and creamy texture that complement the tangy cream cheese wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
This Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe is one of those magical desserts that never fails to wow. With its gorgeous red color, rich chocolate undertones, and creamy swirls, it’s a treat that brings smiles with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your go-to dessert for celebrations, cozy nights, or simply whenever you want a slice of pure joy.
Print
Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, chocolatey flavor of traditional brownies with the vibrant color and creamy texture of red velvet. Swirled with a luscious cream cheese mixture, these brownies are moist, decadent, and perfect for any special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the brownies out after baking.
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until combined. Add the egg, red food coloring, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. Sift in the cocoa powder, salt, and flour, then stir until just combined. Fold in the white chocolate chips if using.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, egg yolk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Dollop the cream cheese mixture on top and use a knife or toothpick to swirl it into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper overhang, cut into squares, and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the swirl mixture.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding the flour to keep brownies tender.
- White chocolate chips are optional but add a lovely sweetness and texture.
- Use parchment paper with overhang for easy removal of brownies from the pan.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
