Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe

If you love the rich, velvety texture of red velvet cake but crave the fudgy decadence of a brownie, then you are in for an absolute treat with this Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe. This dessert masterpiece perfectly balances that distinctive red velvet flavor with a luscious cream cheese swirl, creating a luscious marbled pattern that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Each bite melts in your mouth with a perfect mix of moist cocoa notes, a hint of tangy cream cheese, and the slightest touch of sweetness, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let this list intimidate you! The ingredients are simple pantry staples, each playing a vital role in building the color, texture, and flavor of your brownies. From the richness of unsalted butter to the zingy cream cheese filling, it all comes together to make magic.

• 150 g unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature, it adds moisture and richness without overpowering the flavors.
• 275 g caster sugar: Used in the brownie base, it helps achieve a tender crumb and slight crisp edges.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Provides aromatic depth and enhances the overall sweetness naturally.
• 1 tsp red food colouring (gel recommended): This gives the brownies their signature vibrant red hue without diluting the batter.
• 4 medium eggs: Room temperature eggs bind the batter together and contribute to a smooth, glossy texture.
• 30 g cocoa powder: Choose a high-quality unsweetened, Dutch-processed variety for a rich, mellow chocolate flavor.
• 125 g plain all-purpose flour: Sifted to keep the batter light and prevent lumps.
• 1 tsp white wine vinegar: This little secret helps brighten the red color and adds a subtle tang that balances sweetness.
• 250 g full-fat cream cheese: Room temperature for a silky smooth swirl mixture, providing that luscious creaminess.
• 75 g caster sugar (for cream cheese): Sweetens the cream cheese mixture to perfection without clumping.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for cream cheese): Lifts the cream cheese flavor with a hint of warmth.
• 1 egg yolk: Added to the cream cheese mixture, it enriches the texture and helps it blend beautifully.

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Line Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F) conventional or 160°C for fan ovens. Line a 9×9-inch square baking tin with parchment paper, covering the base and sides fully. This little preparation ensures your brownies come out cleanly and look fantastic once ready to slice.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter with 275 g caster sugar until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and light in color. This process is crucial for incorporating air, giving your brownies a tender, fluffy texture underneath that dense exterior.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Red Food Colouring

Mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of red food colouring thoroughly. The batter will turn a beautiful, even red shade – this step sets the stage for the iconic red velvet look we all adore.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs One at a Time

Crack in the eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. Doing this carefully helps to emulsify the batter, ensuring that your brownies maintain a consistent texture without becoming too dense or curdled.

Step 5: Sift and Blend Cocoa and Flour

Sift together 30 g of cocoa powder and 125 g of flour. Gently beat this into the wet ingredients. Be mindful not to overmix — a few lumps are better than a batter beaten too much, which could make the brownies tough.

Step 6: Stir in White Wine Vinegar

Add 1 teaspoon of white wine vinegar last to the mixture and stir well. You may notice a slight fizz as the vinegar interacts with other ingredients, intensifying the red color and adding subtle flavor complexity.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture

In a separate bowl, beat 250 g of room temperature cream cheese with 75 g caster sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and lump-free. Then add 1 egg yolk and mix briefly until fully combined — this creates the creamy contrast you’ll swirl into your brownies.

Step 8: Layer the Batter and Cream Cheese

Pour about 90% of the brownie batter into your lined pan and spread evenly. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer, then add small spots of the remaining brownie batter across the top. This sets up the beautiful marbled effect to come.

Step 9: Create the Signature Swirl

Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese and brownie batters together. Don’t overdo it — you want distinct layers and gorgeous visual contrast that will make every bite captivating.

Step 10: Bake and Cool

Bake for 28 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let your brownies cool in the pan for 20 to 30 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely – about 2 hours – before cutting into 16 mouthwatering squares.

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe

Garnishes

While these brownies are stunning on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh raspberries adds a beautiful accent. A drizzle of white chocolate or a sprinkle of edible gold flakes can make these treats star-worthy for special occasions.

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the richness. A simple fruit salad or a cup of rich coffee or milk can also be delightful companions for a cozy indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving your Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe on a wooden board surrounded by seasonal flowers or in decorative cupcake liners makes your dessert party-ready. You can even cut them into mini squares for bite-sized party favors or festive dessert platters.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed prevents them from drying out while maintaining their moist, fudgy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them inside a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture retention.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth, microwave individual portions for about 10 to 15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5 to 7 minutes. The cream cheese swirl will remain creamy, and the brownie fudginess will be revived.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?

Yes, but Dutch-processed cocoa powder is preferred for its smooth, mellow flavor and richer color, which complements the red velvet taste better. Regular cocoa might impart a slightly more acidic, sharper chocolate note.

Is it necessary to use red food coloring?

Red food coloring is what gives this recipe its signature look. Without it, the brownies will taste delicious but lose that iconic red velvet appearance. Gel food coloring is recommended for a vibrant color without altering the batter consistency.

Can I substitute the cream cheese swirl with something else?

The cream cheese swirl is essential for its unique tang and creaminess. However, if you prefer, a mascarpone mixture can work as a substitute, offering a similar texture with a slightly different flavor profile.

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?

The leaf test here is a toothpick inserted into the center coming out with a few moist crumbs. It’s important not to overbake — you want the center to remain fudgy and moist rather than dry.

Can I double the recipe and use a larger pan?

Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust your baking time accordingly. Use a larger pan like a 9×13-inch and check doneness starting around the 35-minute mark. Keep an eye to avoid overbaking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to impress friends, delight family, or simply treat yourself to something spectacular, this Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl Recipe is a surefire winner. It’s a beautiful balance of striking color, rich flavor, and scrumptious texture that feels both special and accessible. Once you make these, they’ll surely become one of your most cherished dessert recipes. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and whip up a batch — your taste buds will thank you!

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