The Best Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

These Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies are the perfect balance of rich, velvety texture and indulgent flavor. The combination of the classic red velvet flavor with the creamy, tangy cheesecake layer makes these brownies a decadent treat you’ll want to make over and over again. The vibrant red color and fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the brownie layer, topped with a luscious cheesecake swirl, will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just need something sweet, these brownies are sure to impress. They’re easy to make, yet sophisticated enough for any dessert table. With the perfect combination of cocoa and cream cheese, these brownies will quickly become a favorite. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get started on creating a batch of the best red velvet brownies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Decadent Cheesecake Layer

The creamy, tangy cheesecake layer pairs perfectly with the rich, fudgy brownie base, creating a delicious contrast in flavor and texture.

2. Beautiful Red Velvet Hue

The striking red color of these brownies makes them visually stunning, adding a vibrant touch to any dessert table or gathering.

3. Fudgy and Moist

The brownies have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s wonderfully fudgy and moist, ensuring every bite is pure bliss.

4. Easy to Make

With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, these brownies are easy to prepare, even for novice bakers.

5. Versatile

Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday, birthday party, or just a cozy night in. They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• Full-fat cream cheese (very soft, room temperature)
• Granulated sugar
• Large egg (room temperature, whisked)
• Vanilla extract

For the Brownie Layer:

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or dutch processed)
• Kosher salt
• Granulated sugar
• Large eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Red gel food coloring
• Neutral oil
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• White vinegar or apple cider vinegar

Variations

1. Add Chocolate Chips: For even more chocolatey goodness, fold in a handful of chocolate chips into the brownie batter.
2. Make it Non-Dairy: Use dairy-free cream cheese and substitute the butter with a non-dairy butter alternative.
3. Swap the Cheesecake Layer: If you’re not a fan of cheesecake, you can top the brownies with a swirl of vanilla frosting or a chocolate ganache.
4. Extra Tang: If you prefer a more tangy cheesecake flavor, increase the amount of cream cheese or add a tablespoon of sour cream to the cheesecake layer.
5. Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans would provide a nice crunch and flavor contrast to the fudgy brownies.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the whisked egg and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined. Set the cheesecake mixture aside.

Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and kosher salt. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Add the oil, melted butter, and vinegar, then mix until smooth and well combined. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth it into an even layer. Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture on top of the brownie batter and use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cheesecake into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The brownies should be set but still slightly soft in the center.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. For the best texture, let them cool completely, then serve and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for the best texture and easy mixing.
2. Don’t Overmix the Brownie Batter: Overmixing the brownie batter can lead to dense brownies. Mix until just combined for a light, fudgy texture.
3. Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring is ideal for this recipe, as it provides a rich color without altering the texture of the batter.
4. Swirl the Cheesecake Layer Gently: When swirling the cheesecake, don’t overdo it. A few gentle swirls are enough to create a beautiful marbled effect.
5. Test for Doneness: To avoid overbaking, check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time. The brownies should be set but soft in the center.

How to Serve

Serve these brownies on their own for a decadent treat, or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert. They’re perfect for a special occasion, holiday, or just a simple dessert to enjoy with friends and family. These brownies also make great gifts if packaged nicely in a decorative box or tin.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week if you prefer them chilled.

Freezing

These brownies freeze well! Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for a few hours or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Reheating

Reheat individual brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different size baking pan?

Yes, if you use a larger pan, the brownies may bake faster. If using a smaller pan, you may need to adjust the baking time and watch for doneness.

2. Can I make these brownies without the cheesecake layer?

Yes, you can make plain red velvet brownies by skipping the cheesecake layer, though it will change the flavor and texture.

3. Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel?

Gel food coloring works best for this recipe because it gives the brownies a deep red color without altering the consistency. If you only have liquid food coloring, you may need to use more, but be careful as it can affect the batter’s texture.

4. How can I tell if my brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. If it comes out clean, they may be overbaked.

5. Can I substitute the vinegar with something else?

You can substitute the vinegar with lemon juice or buttermilk for a similar tang, but vinegar works best for the chemical reaction needed to make the brownies rise.

6. Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, any neutral oil like vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil will work well in this recipe.

7. Can I add chocolate chips to the brownie batter?

Yes, adding chocolate chips is a great way to enhance the chocolate flavor of these brownies. Just fold them in with the dry ingredients.

8. How long do these brownies last?

These brownies will last for up to 3 days at room temperature and up to a week in the fridge.

9. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, these brownies can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature or in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

10. Can I freeze the brownies?

Yes, these brownies freeze well. Wrap them in plastic wrap and foil, and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

These Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies with a cheesecake swirl are the ultimate indulgence, combining the richness of brownies with the creamy tang of cheesecake. The vibrant red color makes them a stunning treat, perfect for any special occasion or just as an extra-special dessert. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite for anyone who loves rich, decadent desserts.

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