Description
Delight in these luscious Red Velvet Brownies with a creamy cream cheese swirl. This festive dessert features a moist, rich red velvet base enhanced with a delicate marbled layer of sweetened cream cheese, making it perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mix Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract, whisking until fully incorporated. Stir in the cocoa powder gently. Fold in the all-purpose flour and salt carefully until the mixture is just combined and no dry streaks remain.
- Spread Batter: Pour and spread the red velvet brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the surface for an even bake.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Swirl: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and free of lumps.
- Create Swirl Effect: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl through the two mixtures to create a beautiful marbled pattern.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes. The brownies are done when the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice into 9 squares and serve.
Notes
- For clean, precise slices, chill the brownies in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before cutting.
- Use gel-based red food coloring to achieve a more vibrant, rich red hue without thinning the batter.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
