Description
Delight in these rich and moist Red Velvet Brownies with a luscious cream cheese swirl. Combining the classic flavors of red velvet cake with a fudgy brownie texture, these treats are perfect for festive occasions or an indulgent daily dessert. The cream cheese swirl adds a tangy contrast and beautiful marbled pattern, creating a stunning and irresistible dessert.
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
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease in removal.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract, whisking until fully combined. Stir in the cocoa powder gently.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Carefully fold in the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture just until no dry streaks remain, taking care not to overmix to keep the batter tender.
- Spread Batter: Evenly spread the red velvet brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Swirl: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Swirl Cream Cheese: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture randomly over the brownie batter. Using a knife, gently swirl it through the batter to create a marbled effect without fully blending.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 28 to 32 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing them into 9 squares to ensure clean cuts and prevent crumbling.
Notes
- For cleaner, neater slices, chill the brownies in the refrigerator for about 1 hour before cutting.
- Using gel food coloring delivers a more vibrant and consistent red hue compared to liquid coloring.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
