Description

These red velvet brownies are rich, fudgy, and irresistibly indulgent, with a gorgeous swirl of creamy cheesecake on top. The tangy cheesecake layer pairs perfectly with the deep cocoa flavor and signature red velvet hue, making them the ultimate treat for Valentine’s Day, holidays, or any time you’re craving something decadent and beautiful.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheesecake Layer

8 oz full-fat cream cheese, very soft (room temperature)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature, whisked
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Brownie Layer

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch processed)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1–2 teaspoons red gel food coloring
1/3 cup neutral oil (like canola or vegetable)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons vinegar (white vinegar or apple cider vinegar)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Make the cheesecake layer: In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the whisked egg and vanilla extract. Stir until creamy and well combined. Set aside.
Make the brownie layer: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, food coloring, oil, melted butter, and vinegar until fully combined.
Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just mixed—do not overmix.
Pour most of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, reserving about 1/4 cup.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter and spread evenly.
Dollop the reserved brownie batter on top and use a knife or skewer to create swirls.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool completely in the pan, then chill for at least 1 hour before slicing for clean cuts.

Notes

For deeper color, use a high-quality red gel food coloring—liquid food coloring may dilute the batter.
Chilling the brownies before cutting helps get clean layers and prevents smudging the cheesecake swirl.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: red velvet brownies, cheesecake brownies, valentine's dessert, fudgy brownies, red velvet dessert