Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

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Decadent, rich, and swirling with contrast, Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are the showstoppers of any dessert table. With a fudgy red velvet base and a creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl on top, these bars are as stunning as they are scrumptious. They bring together the best of both worlds: the chocolatey richness of brownies and the silky elegance of cheesecake.

Perfect for Valentine’s Day, holiday platters, or when you’re simply craving something indulgent, these brownies satisfy with every bite. The visual appeal alone will have your guests swooning, but it’s the flavor and texture that make them unforgettable.

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What Kind of Cocoa Powder Should I Use?

To get that classic red velvet flavor, it’s important to use unsweetened natural cocoa powder. It provides just the right balance of chocolate depth without overpowering the tang from the cream cheese. Dutch-processed cocoa isn’t ideal here, as the leavening and acidity won’t react the same.

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Ingredients for the Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Cream Cheese: The star of the swirl topping, it brings that luscious tang and creaminess that plays so well against the brownie base.

Granulated Sugar: Needed to sweeten both the brownie batter and the cheesecake layer. It also helps create a slightly crackly top.

Eggs: These help bind the mixture and add richness to both components.

All-Purpose Flour: Used to give the brownie structure without making it cakey.

Butter: Melted for ease, it creates that soft, fudgy texture you want in a red velvet brownie.

Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds that classic cocoa flavor and deepens the color of the batter.

Red Food Coloring: Essential for achieving that bold red hue that defines red velvet.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavors and rounds out both the brownie and cheesecake elements.

Salt: Just a pinch elevates all the other ingredients.

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How To Make the Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Make the Brownie Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and eggs. Mix until well combined, then stir in the flour and salt until just incorporated. Pour most of the batter into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish, reserving about 1/4 cup for the top swirl.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, and one egg, mixing until creamy and lump-free. Gently spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie base in an even layer.

Step 3: Swirl It Up

Drop dollops of the reserved red velvet batter over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the two layers together, creating a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean. Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.

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Serving and Storing Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Serve these beauties chilled or at room temperature—both options are equally divine. The cheesecake layer firms up wonderfully in the fridge, making them easier to slice cleanly and stack.

To store, place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

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What to Serve With Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies?

Fresh Berries

The tartness of raspberries or strawberries balances the richness of the brownies.

Whipped Cream

Add a fluffy, light contrast with a dollop of homemade whipped cream.

Vanilla Ice Cream

The warm-and-cold combo is always a win—especially when paired with the tang of cheesecake.

Espresso or Strong Coffee

Bitter notes of coffee enhance the chocolatey richness of red velvet.

Glass of Cold Milk

You can’t go wrong with this nostalgic pairing.

Dessert Platter Mix

Serve alongside Caramel Cheesecake Cookies or Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for variety.

Crushed Nuts

Sprinkle walnuts or pecans for an added crunchy texture.

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Want More Cheesecake Dessert Ideas?

If you’re into creamy, dreamy cheesecake creations, you’ll adore these dessert recipes too:

• Double Crust Cheesecake for an indulgent base-to-top cheesecake experience.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for an easy fruity twist.
• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies packed with chewy decadence.
• White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake if you’re after something extra elegant.
• Cheesecake Brownies for a more classic variation.

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Tried it with a twist? Maybe added a chocolate drizzle or a hint of espresso powder? Let us know in the comments—we love seeing your spin on it!

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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