Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies are a delightful treat that many people adore. I remember the first time I had a red velvet dessert. It was my aunt’s birthday, and she had baked a beautiful red velvet cake with fluffy cream cheese frosting. The rich flavors, soft texture, and the striking red color left an everlasting memory. Ever since then, I have loved anything red velvet.

These brownies are a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. They are made with the classic red velvet ingredients, plus a creamy cream cheese layer. The result is a fudgy brownie that has both a subtle cocoa flavor and the tangy sweetness of cream cheese. Trust me, this recipe is worth trying for its delicious taste and easy preparation. You will impress your family and friends, and maybe even create some sweet memories of your own.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies is special for many reasons. First, they are quite simple to make. You don’t need any fancy tools or complicated steps. Even if you are new to baking, this recipe will help you succeed with ease. The ingredients are common items found in most kitchens, making it both affordable and accessible.

What really sets these brownies apart is their flavors. The robust, slightly chocolatey base pairs perfectly with the creamy, sweet cream cheese topping. Each bite gives you that rich red velvet taste with a hint of cocoa. Layering those two textures together allows for a taste experience that is both satisfying and delightful.

Also, there is something about red velvet that feels special. Maybe it is the vibrant color or the unique flavor profile. Either way, these brownies have a way of making any moment feel like a celebration. Whether it’s a weeknight dessert, a special occasion, or a thoughtful gift, Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies bring joy and comfort. It’s a recipe that brings people together.

How to Make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies

Making Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with lovely scents. You start by mixing the butter and sugar together to create a smooth mixture. This will feel soft and comforting in your hands. When you add the eggs and vanilla, the whole mixture becomes even richer.

As you blend in the food coloring, you will see the batter transform into a beautiful red hue. The vibrant color already lifts your mood! Mixing the dry ingredients in a separate bowl helps to keep everything even. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, the batter is thick and luscious.

Pouring half the batter into the pan is the next step. The smell already wafts around you, and you can’t help but feel excited! The cream cheese comes next. Beating it with the powdered sugar makes it creamy and sweet. Dropping spoonfuls of this mixture onto the brownie batter creates a beautiful marbled effect when swirled with a knife.

After pouring the rest of the brownie batter on top, you will know that deliciousness is just minutes away. The brownies will bake and rise, and your kitchen will be filled with the warm aroma of chocolate and cream cheese. After about 25 to 30 minutes in the oven, your sweet creation will be ready. The soft texture and striking color will make it hard to resist cutting into them right away!

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need to make these tasty brownies, along with a brief explanation of their roles in the recipe:

• 1 cup unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture to the brownies, making them fudgy and soft.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sugar not only sweetens the brownies but also helps them rise and gives them a nice texture.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and help bind all the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla adds a warm, sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring: This gives the brownies their signature red hue, making them visually appealing.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Flour is essential for structure. It helps the brownies hold their shape.
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder: Cocoa powder adds a rich chocolate flavor, giving the brownies depth and complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: Cream cheese creates a rich, smooth layer that complements the brownie base.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: This sweetens the cream cheese layer and adds a nice texture.

If you have dietary needs, consider using vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

Directions

Ready to bake? Let’s start making those beautiful Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies! Just follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat the oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to keep them from sticking.

2. Mix the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter. Make sure it’s not too hot, just warm enough to mix easily. Add the granulated sugar and mix until they are well combined. This mixture should feel smooth and a bit creamy.

3. Add the eggs and vanilla: Crack in the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg to make sure everything is nicely blended. Then stir in the vanilla extract and the red food coloring until the mixture is evenly colored.

4. Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This helps to break up any clumps in the flour and ensures the ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Mix wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Fold them together gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. This keeps the brownies soft and fudgy.

6. Layer the batter: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly across the bottom.

7. Prepare the cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until it becomes smooth and creamy.

8. Add the cream cheese: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. Don’t worry about making it perfect; the swirls will come together beautifully.

9. Finish with the remaining batter: Pour the rest of the brownie batter over the cream cheese layer and carefully spread it out to cover as much of the cream cheese as possible.

10. Bake: Put the pan in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. They are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them; you don’t want to overbake!

11. Cool and serve: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven. Allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before cutting into squares.

Tip: Cutting them into squares is easier when the brownies are completely cooled.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies

These beautiful brownies are perfect for any occasion! Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert. They are also a fantastic treat for a potluck, birthday party, or holiday gathering.

Pair them with a tall glass of cold milk or a rich cup of coffee to balance the sweetness. You can even sprinkle some powdered sugar on top to give them a fancy look. For a fun twist, consider adding fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side for an extra burst of flavor and color.

How to Store Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies

If you have any leftovers (which might be hard because they are so good!), you can store them easily. Place the brownies in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about a week.

If you want to store them for a longer time, you can freeze them. It’s best to cut the brownies into squares before freezing. Wrap each square in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or container. They will stay fresh for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature. You can also warm them up briefly in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer them warm.

Tips to Make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies

Here are some useful tricks to get the best results with your brownies:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps them mix together smoothly and creates a nice texture.
• Do not overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make your brownies tough.
• Check doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick in the center of the brownies. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready.
• Let them cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing. This helps them set and makes cutting easier.

Variation

There are many fun ways to put your spin on these brownies:

1. Add nuts: For a crunchy texture, mix in chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter before baking.
2. Flavor twist: Add a teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla for a different but delightful flavor.
3. Gluten-Free Version: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour to make these brownies gluten-free. Just make sure it is a blend that can be used in baking!

FAQs

Q: Can I make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make these brownies a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This can even help intensify the flavors.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat it?
A: If you want to enjoy them warm, simply place a brownie in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This will warm it without drying it out.

Q: Can I use a different cheese or flour?
A: You can experiment with different cheeses! For a milder taste, you can use mascarpone. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.

With these simple steps and tips, you are ready to bring the joy of Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies into your home. Happy baking!

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies

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• Author: phillip
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies with a rich texture and sweet cream cheese layer, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter and mix it with granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in vanilla and red food coloring until evenly combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined.
6. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out.
7. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth.
8. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter and swirl it with a knife.
9. Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cream cheese layer and spread it out carefully.
10. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.
11. Allow the brownies to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute with vegan butter and gluten-free flour if needed.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: red velvet, brownies, cream cheese, dessert, baking