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Delicious red velvet cream cheese brownies served on a plate
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Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies

A sumptuous dessert combining rich, moist brownie textures with a delightful cream cheese swirl, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time32 minutes
Total Time52 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baking, Chocolate Dessert, Cream Cheese Brownies, Easy Brownies, Red Velvet Brownies
Servings: 16 pieces
Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

Brownie Base

  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted The foundation of our brownies, adding richness and moisture.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar For sweetness, balancing out the cocoa's bitterness.
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar Enriches the flavor and adds a lovely hint of caramel.
  • 2 large eggs These will give structure and help bind the ingredients.
  • 1 tbsp red food coloring The star ingredient that gives our brownies their signature hue.
  • 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder The source of that chocolatey goodness!
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Provides the base structure for our brownies.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Enhances all flavors present and balances the sweetness.

Cream Cheese Layer

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened The creamy layer that introduces a rich and tangy contrast.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the cream cheese to create that delicious filling.
  • 1 large egg yolk Makes the cream cheese layer extra luscious.
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract Emphasizes the delightful tasting notes in the filling.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

Making the Brownie Batter

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
  • Mix in the eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  • Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gently mix until just combined.

Cream Cheese Layer

  • In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Layering and Baking

  • Pour about 2/3 of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly.
  • Spread the cream cheese layer over the top.
  • Dollop the remaining brownie batter on top of the cream cheese layer and swirl gently with a knife.
  • Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.

Cooling and Slicing

  • Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the edges of the parchment paper.
  • Once cool, slice into squares.

Notes

Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the brownies fudgy.