Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl
These fudgy red velvet brownies with cream cheese swirl are rich, chewy, and beautifully marbled with a tangy cream cheese layer. Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you want a show-stopping dessert, this easy homemade recipe combines the decadence of brownies with the classic flavor of red velvet cake.
Ingredients
- For the Red Velvet Brownie Batter:
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make Brownie Batter: Whisk melted butter and sugar until glossy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla, red food coloring, and vinegar. In another bowl, sift cocoa, flour, and salt. Gently fold dry into wet until just combined.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
- Assemble: Spread ¾ of brownie batter into a greased and parchment-lined baking pan. Drop spoonfuls of cream cheese mixture and remaining brownie batter on top. Swirl with a knife or skewer.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool completely before cutting.
Notes
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smooth swirl.
- Don’t overmix the brownie batter this keeps them fudgy.
- Start checking for doneness at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Cool fully before slicing for clean cuts.
- Add-ins like white chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles make fun variations.