Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

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If you’re looking for the kind of dessert that turns heads at a party, look no further than Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies. These decadent squares bring together the luxurious flavors of rich cocoa, tangy cream cheese, and that signature red velvet charm into one eye-catching treat. It’s the perfect balance between fudgy and creamy, with every bite delivering something a little magical.

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are just as perfect for holidays like Valentine’s Day and Christmas as they are for a casual weekend baking project. You get the visual appeal of red velvet with the luscious indulgence of cheesecake, layered into a bar that’s surprisingly simple to put together. Once you try one, you’ll understand why they tend to disappear fast from dessert tables.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

These brownies are a showstopper. The deep red base and creamy marbled top make them as beautiful to look at as they are satisfying to eat. If you enjoy brownies and cheesecake separately, this dessert brings the best of both worlds into one pan. It’s also ideal for gifting or bake sales because they slice so cleanly and hold their shape well.

Beyond looks, they also pack in flavor. The cocoa in the red velvet layer gives that rich chocolatey foundation, while the cheesecake swirl adds a tangy contrast that lifts the entire dessert. It’s a layered harmony of sweet and creamy that keeps people coming back for seconds.

What Kind of Cream Cheese Works Best?

Full-fat cream cheese in block form is your best friend here. Avoid whipped or spreadable versions that come in tubs—they often contain added water or stabilizers that can mess with texture. The block cream cheese gives you that thick, luxurious swirl you want in a brownie.

Let it soften at room temperature before mixing, so it blends smoothly without lumps. This will help create that gorgeous marble swirl on top and ensure the cheesecake layer is velvety without being too runny.

Ingredients for the Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

The ingredients for these brownies are pantry-friendly and straightforward, but each one plays a key role in building that indulgent flavor and texture.

• Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the brownie base.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps achieve that crackly brownie top.
• Eggs: Essential for structure in both the brownie and cheesecake layers.
• Vanilla extract: Boosts the overall flavor and balances the tang of the cream cheese.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Brings depth and chocolate flavor to the red velvet base.
• Red food coloring: Gives that iconic bold red hue.
• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure that holds the layers together.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors without standing out.
• Cream cheese: The creamy, tangy hero of the swirl topping.
• Powdered sugar: Adds just the right sweetness to the cheesecake layer without graininess.

How To Make the Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Batter

Start by melting the butter and mixing it with granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and cocoa powder until smooth. Fold in the flour and salt until just combined.

Step 2: Spread and Set Aside

Pour almost all of the red velvet brownie batter into a greased baking pan, reserving a small portion to swirl on top later. Smooth it out evenly.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Swirl

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and an egg until creamy and lump-free.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Dollop the cream cheese mixture across the red velvet layer. Then, drop small spoonfuls of the reserved brownie batter on top. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the two layers together, creating a marbled pattern.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Let it cool completely before slicing for clean, beautiful squares.

How to Serve and Store Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

These brownies are best served chilled or at room temperature for the most distinct flavor separation between the creamy and fudgy layers. They make about 12 to 16 servings depending on how generous you slice them, which makes them perfect for parties or holiday dessert platters.

Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If stacking, place parchment between layers to prevent sticking. You can also freeze them for up to two months; just thaw in the fridge overnight.

What to Serve With Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies?

Fresh Berries

A side of strawberries or raspberries brightens the plate and complements the rich flavors.

Whipped Cream

Add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for a dreamy, creamy addition.

Espresso or Coffee

The bitterness of coffee pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy brownie layers.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of vanilla ice cream takes these brownies from snack to decadent dessert.

Chocolate Drizzle

Warm ganache or melted chocolate over the top never hurts.

Glass of Cold Milk

It’s a classic pairing that helps mellow out the sweetness.

Salted Nuts

Pecans or walnuts on the side bring a crunch that contrasts the softness of the brownie.

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If you love these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies, try these other delicious desserts:

• Ooey Gooey Bars for a buttery melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries if you like fruity cheesecake twists.
• Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler for a Southern-style warm dessert.
• Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons when you’re craving chewy and tropical.
• Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes for those cozy spiced cheesecake vibes.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swirl with a toothpick or a butter knife? Did you add a little extra cocoa for more depth?

I love seeing your creations and sharing tips along the way. Questions are always welcome!

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