If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that feels like a celebration in every bite, then the Red Velvet Cream Cheese Swirled Brownies Recipe is going to become your new best friend. These brownies are a stunning fusion of rich, fudgy red velvet and the tangy, smooth cream cheese swirls, creating a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture. Perfectly moist, vibrantly red, and beautifully marbled, this recipe not only dazzles the eyes but also melts in your mouth with every bite. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, these brownies hit that spot where classic comfort meets indulgent flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Red Velvet Cream Cheese Swirled Brownies Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the cocoa powder adding depth to the red velvet’s characteristic gentle chocolatey note, to the cream cheese providing a luscious, creamy balance that makes each bite unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds richness and moisture for the fudgiest brownie texture.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup for brownie, 1/4 cup for cream cheese mixture): Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb and smooth cream cheese topping.
- Large egg (1 for batter): Binds and provides structure to your brownies.
- Red food coloring (1 tablespoon): Gives that signature vibrant red velvet color.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon for batter, 1/2 teaspoon for cream cheese): Enhances flavor with a warm aromatic note.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Elevates all the flavors and cuts through the sweetness.
- All-purpose flour (3/4 cup): Provides the necessary structure without making the brownies cakey.
- White chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): Adds extra creamy pockets of sweetness, perfect for texture contrast.
- Cream cheese (1/2 cup, softened): The star of the swirl, lending creamy tang and smoothness.
- Egg yolk (1 for cream cheese mixture): Helps keep the cream cheese layer rich and silky.
How to Make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Swirled Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure you leave some overhang on the sides. This is a small but important tip to help you lift the brownies out easily once they’re baked and cooled. Prep like this means less fuss and cleaner cuts when it’s time to serve!
Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Brownie Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until fully combined. Then, add the egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract, whisking until you get a smooth, vibrant batter. Sift in the cocoa powder, salt, and flour to keep things light in texture, and carefully fold the dry ingredients in until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense brownies, and we want those tender fudgy bites! If you love little bursts of creamy sweetness, fold in the white chocolate chips now.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, egg yolk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This luscious mixture is what gives the brownies their signature swirl of tangy creaminess, balancing perfectly with the deep red velvet batter.
Step 4: Combine and Swirl
Pour the red velvet batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Now, dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture all over the brownie batter. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter to create that gorgeous marbled effect. This is the fun part that gives each brownie a unique look and irresistible personality!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your masterpiece in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re aiming for brownies that are just set, so when you insert a toothpick in the center, it should come out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This keeps the brownies wonderfully fudgy and soft.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Allow the brownies to cool completely right in the baking dish. This step helps the brownies set and makes cutting easier without crumbly messes. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to gently lift the entire batch out of the pan. Slice into 12 generous squares and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Red Velvet Cream Cheese Swirled Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple by dusting a little powdered sugar or cocoa powder on top for an elegant touch. Fresh berries, especially strawberries or raspberries, add a bright, tart contrast that complements the sweetness of the brownies beautifully.
Side Dishes
A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream pairs wonderfully with warm brownies. For something a bit different, a drizzle of caramel sauce or a handful of toasted nuts adds extra texture and flavor pleasure.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these brownies on a rustic wooden board to bring a cozy vibe to your dessert table. You can also stack smaller squares with a sliver of cream cheese frosting between layers for a fun mini brownie cake. Wrapping individual brownies in parchment paper tied with twine makes a lovely gift or party favor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your brownies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, perfect for enjoying as a quick snack or sweet breakfast treat.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies if you want to make them ahead or save some for later. Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap, then place all wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To revive the fresh-baked feel, warm your brownies in the microwave for about 15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. The cream cheese swirl will soften and those fudgy reds will taste like they just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?
While the cream cheese swirl is what makes these brownies extra special, you can definitely make just the red velvet brownies by skipping the cream cheese mixture. They will still be moist and delicious but without that tangy contrast.
What type of red food coloring is best to use?
Gel or paste red food coloring works best here because it gives you vibrant color without adding extra liquid that might change the batter’s texture. Liquid food coloring can work too but use it sparingly.
Can I substitute the butter for oil?
Butter adds richness and flavor, which is key for the texture of these brownies. You can replace it with vegetable oil if needed, but the brownies may be slightly less flavorful and fudgy.
Why do my cream cheese swirls disappear during baking?
Swirling too much or too vigorously can cause the cream cheese to blend fully into the batter, rather than remaining distinct. A gentle swirling motion with a knife or toothpick helps create that pretty marbled pattern.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Check by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out mostly clean but with a few moist crumbs—that means the brownies are perfectly fudgy and not overbaked.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly joyful about baking and sharing the Red Velvet Cream Cheese Swirled Brownies Recipe. It’s that mix of bold color, rich flavor, and creamy swirls that makes every bite feel special and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a party, a gift, or simply because you deserve a treat, these brownies won’t disappoint. Dive in with a warm smile—you’re about to create a dessert that everyone will ask for again and again!
Print
Red Velvet Cream Cheese Swirled Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These decadent Red Velvet Brownies combine the classic rich, moist texture of brownies with a vibrant red hue and a luscious cream cheese swirl. Perfect for any occasion, these brownies offer a delightful balance of chocolate and cream cheese flavors with a hint of vanilla, making them irresistibly delicious.
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 and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the brownies out after baking.
- Make 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 the mixture is smooth. Sift in the cocoa powder, salt, and flour. Stir until just combined. Fold in the white chocolate chips if using.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: 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 Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Dollop the cream cheese mixture on top of the brownie batter. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cream cheese into the brownie 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 the brownies out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and soften it to room temperature before mixing.
- White chocolate chips are optional but add a nice sweetness and texture contrast.
- Ensure not to overmix batter to maintain a tender crumb.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before slicing to achieve clean cuts.
