why make this recipe
Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of a classic brownie with the creamy goodness of cheesecake. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or simply a treat for yourself. The vibrant red color gives these brownies a festive touch, making them eye-catching and irresistible. Plus, the combination of chocolate and cream cheese creates a delicious and decadent dessert that everyone will love.
how to make Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoons red food coloring
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 Tablespoons Dutch process cocoa powder
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until combined.
- Add in the eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Sift in the flour and cocoa powder, then fold into the wet mixture until just combined.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese with the egg and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, then dollop the cheesecake mixture on top.
- Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer.
- Swirl a knife through the layers to create a marbled effect.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool before slicing into squares.
how to serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
Enjoy these delicious brownies warm or at room temperature. They are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch, try drizzling some chocolate sauce or cream cheese frosting on top.
how to store Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze these brownies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container.
tips to make Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
- Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps them mix together smoothly.
- Don’t overmix the brownie batter; fold until just combined for the best texture.
- Use a rubber spatula to help you swirl the cheesecake mixture and brownie batter together for a nice marbled effect.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is different, so adjust the time as needed.
variation
You can customize these brownies in many ways. Try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the brownie batter for added texture. You can also experiment with different flavors of cream cheese, like adding a splash of lemon juice or almond extract for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?
Yes, gel food coloring works great! It gives a more vivid color and requires less than liquid food coloring.
2. How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with moist crumbs, they’re done. If there’s wet batter, they need more time.
3. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! They can be made the day before and stored in the fridge. Just let them sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.
Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
Ingredients
Brownie Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoons red food coloring
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 Tablespoons Dutch process cocoa powder
Cheesecake Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until combined.
- Add in the eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Sift in the flour and cocoa powder, then fold into the wet mixture until just combined.
Cheesecake Mixture
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese with the egg and sugar until smooth and creamy.
Assembly and Baking
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, then dollop the cheesecake mixture on top.
- Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer.
- Swirl a knife through the layers to create a marbled effect.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool before slicing into squares.