Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies are the perfect combination of rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a decadent, tangy red velvet cheesecake swirl. This recipe is designed to impress at any occasion — be it a holiday, birthday, or just a fun treat to enjoy with family. The vibrant red hue and marbled appearance make these brownies a showstopper, while the cheesecake layer adds a smooth, creamy texture that perfectly balances the richness of the brownie.
What Are Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies?
Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies are a delicious fusion dessert combining two favorites: fudgy brownies and a tangy cream cheese swirl. The brownie base is rich in chocolate flavor, while the cream cheese layer brings a smooth, cheesecake-like consistency. Red velvet, with its signature color and mild cocoa taste, elevates this dessert into something special. When baked, the layers swirl together, creating a beautiful marbled effect that makes each bite irresistible.
Origin of Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies
While red velvet as a flavor has its roots in the American South, the combination of red velvet with cheesecake is a more modern take. The red velvet cake itself has been a beloved dessert for decades, known for its unique color and subtly tangy flavor. Cheesecake, a classic favorite, was then introduced into the red velvet flavor profile, and the result is a decadent dessert that takes the best of both worlds. Combining them with fudgy brownies creates a new twist, making these Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies a contemporary treat that’s loved by all ages.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1–2 tsp red food coloring
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing for an overhang so the brownies can be easily removed after baking.
2. Make the Brownie Layer
- In a heatproof bowl, melt butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips together. You can do this in the microwave by heating in 20-second intervals or on the stovetop. Stir the mixture until smooth.
- Whisk in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the flour and salt. Mix until just combined, but don’t overwork the batter. Set aside.
3. Make the Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl
- In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, unsweetened cocoa powder, and red food coloring. Mix until fully incorporated. The red food coloring is what gives this cheesecake layer its signature vibrant red color.
4. Assemble
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter.
- Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cheesecake into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.
5. Bake
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Refrigerate for 1–2 hours to make slicing easier.
Serving & Garnishing
- Once cooled, slice into squares or rectangles.
- Optional garnishes include dusting with powdered sugar, drizzling with melted chocolate, or topping with white chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Serve the brownies chilled or at room temperature. The cheesecake swirl is extra creamy when slightly chilled, giving the brownies a smooth texture.
Tips & Variations
- Fudgy Brownies: For a denser, more fudgy texture, use slightly less flour in the brownie layer.
- Extra Cheesecake Flavor: For an added tang, mix in ½ tsp lemon juice to the cheesecake swirl.
- Festive Touch: You can customize the recipe for different holidays. For Christmas, use colored sprinkles or crushed candy canes on top.
- Mini Version: For bite-sized treats, pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 20–25 minutes to make cheesecake brownie bites.
FAQs About Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies
1. Can I use a different color for the cheesecake swirl?
Yes! While red food coloring is traditional for red velvet, you can use any color of food coloring to make it your own. It won’t affect the taste, just the visual appeal.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
3. How do I store Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
4. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the brownie layer?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate, depending on your preference. Just adjust the sugar levels if using milk chocolate, as it is sweeter.
Conclusion: Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies
These Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds — decadent, fudgy chocolate brownies and a rich, creamy cheesecake swirl. The vibrant red color adds an eye-catching touch, making these brownies the perfect dessert for any special occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these brownies will impress everyone at the table. With easy-to-follow instructions and a variety of ways to customize the recipe, you can enjoy this stunning dessert again and again.
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Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies Recipe – A Decadent Dessert
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies are a delicious fusion dessert combining two favorites: fudgy brownies and a tangy cream cheese swirl. The brownie base is rich in chocolate flavor, while the cream cheese layer brings a smooth, cheesecake-like consistency. Red velvet, with its signature color and mild cocoa taste, elevates this dessert into something special. When baked, the layers swirl together, creating a beautiful marbled effect that makes each bite irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup all-purpose flour
¼ tsp salt
For the Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1–2 tsp red food coloring
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Brownie Layer
Melt butter and chocolate chips together in a heatproof bowl (microwave in 20-second intervals or stovetop). Stir smooth.
Whisk in granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
Fold in flour and salt until just combined. Set aside.
3. Make the Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl
Beat together cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add egg, vanilla, cocoa powder, and red food coloring. Mix until fully incorporated.
4. Assemble
Pour brownie batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Drop cheesecake mixture in spoonfuls over the brownie layer.
Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cheesecake into the brownie batter to create a marbled effect.
Notes
For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle your red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies with white chocolate or cream cheese frosting and sprinkle with festive red velvet crumbs. Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 320
Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cheesecake Swirl Brownies, Red Velvet Dessert, Fudgy Brownies with Cheesecake
