Print

Creamy Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

red velvet cheesecake brownies - featured image

These festive brownies combine a fudgy red velvet base with a creamy cheesecake swirl, making them a show-stopping, easy dessert perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion. Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, they’re a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 blend)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon buttermilk (or 1 tablespoon milk + 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar)
  • 2 teaspoons red gel food coloring
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly spray or grease the paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until glossy and combined (about 1 minute). Add eggs and vanilla extract, whisking vigorously until pale and slightly thickened.
  3. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
  4. Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Stir in buttermilk and red food coloring until evenly blended.
  5. Pour about 3/4 of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth into an even layer. Reserve the rest for topping.
  6. In a small bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth (about 30 seconds). Add sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, beating until creamy and lump-free (about 1 minute).
  7. Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer. Dollop the remaining brownie batter in between. Use a toothpick or butter knife to gently swirl the two together, creating a marbled effect.
  8. Bake for 32-36 minutes, until edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Let brownies cool in the pan for at least 20-30 minutes, then lift out using the parchment overhang and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Slice into squares and serve. For extra festivity, dust with powdered sugar or top with heart-shaped sprinkles.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature eggs and cream cheese. Don’t overmix the brownie batter to keep it fudgy. Use gel food coloring for vibrant color without thinning the batter. Cool brownies completely before slicing for clean cuts. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: red velvet brownies, cheesecake brownies, Valentine dessert, easy brownies, creamy brownies, marbled brownies, holiday baking, kid-friendly dessert