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Red velvet cream cheese brownies topped with cream cheese frosting
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Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies

A delightful dessert combining the rich flavor of red velvet cake with soft, fudgy brownies and a creamy cream cheese filling.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Brownies, cream cheese, Dessert Recipe, Red Velvet
Servings: 16 pieces
Calories: 275kcal

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted Provides a rich, buttery base that enhances the fudgy texture.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the brownies, balancing the cocoa’s bitterness.
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar Adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor.
  • 2 large eggs Helps bind the ingredients for a moist, dense brownie.
  • 1 tbsp red food coloring Gives that classic red velvet appearance.
  • 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract A fragrant note that complements the chocolate and cream cheese.
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder The key ingredient that brings chocolatey depth.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Provides structure to the brownies.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Enhances flavor, rounding out the sweetness.

Cream Cheese Filling Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Adds a smooth, rich layer with a slight tang.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the cream cheese mixture.
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract A lovely complement to the cream cheese's flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Sift in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Gently mix until just combined.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  • Pour two-thirds of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
  • Spread the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer.
  • Dollop the remaining brownie batter over the cream cheese layer and swirl it gently with a knife.

Baking

  • Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
  • Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for the smoothest filling. For extra flavor, consider folding in chocolate chips into the brownie batter.