If you’ve ever wished you could combine the comfort of homemade brownies with the luxury of silky cheesecake, this Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is pure dessert magic. Each square delivers fudgy red velvet chocolate swirled with velvety cheesecake, creating a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Vibrant red swirls and a dramatic marbled top make them the star of any dessert table, and the taste is as unforgettable as their looks—rich, creamy, and slightly tangy, with just the right sweetness to keep you reaching for another bite.

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly, yet every single one plays a crucial role in building the decadent flavor, dreamy texture, and signature color that make this Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe irresistible. Gather what you need, and let’s get baking!

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Gives the brownies richness and keeps them moist without overwhelming the red velvet flavor.
Granulated sugar (1 cup for brownies, 1/4 cup for cheesecake): Sweetens both layers perfectly and contributes to that irresistible brownie texture.
Large eggs (2 for brownies, 1 for cheesecake): Bind the batters, providing structure and silkiness to both layers.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon for brownies, 1/2 teaspoon for cheesecake): Adds warmth and depth, enhancing both chocolate and cream cheese flavors.
Red food coloring (1 tablespoon): The secret to iconic, vibrant red velvet appeal—use liquid or gel for dramatic color.
Cocoa powder (1 tablespoon): Just enough to provide classic chocolate undertones without overpowering the red.
All-purpose flour (3/4 cup): Ensures the brownies are soft and chewy, never cakey.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and highlights the chocolate notes.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The star of the cheesecake layer—its tanginess pairs perfectly with red velvet.

How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave a bit of overhang on the sides—this makes lifting the brownies out for perfect slicing a breeze. A little prep now sets you up for flawless, picture-perfect bars later!

Step 2: Mix the Red Velvet Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and sugar until the mixture looks glossy and smooth. Crack in the eggs, pour in the vanilla extract, and add the red food coloring. Whisk again until fully combined—the color should be vibrant, like a red velvet dream! Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt, then gently fold until just combined. Take care not to overmix; just blend until you see no streaks of dry flour left.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until completely smooth with no lumps. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, then beat again until the mixture is creamy, thick, and luscious—think silky clouds of cheesecake goodness. Your cream cheese should be soft for easy mixing, so let it sit at room temperature if needed.

Step 4: Assemble for Swirly Perfection

Pour about three-quarters of the red velvet brownie batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly to every corner with a spatula. Gently spread the cheesecake layer over the brownie base—the less swirling at this point, the neater your layers will look. Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining red velvet batter on top of the cheesecake layer, then use a knife or toothpick to create those classic marbled swirls. Have fun with it; each pan is a unique work of art!

Step 5: Bake Until Just Set

Bake the assembled batter in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for set edges with a slightly wobbly center—that’s how you get perfect, creamy cheesecake in every bite. Check doneness with a toothpick; a few moist crumbs are exactly what you want.

Step 6: Cool and Chill for Perfect Slices

Let your brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once at room temperature, chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This makes slicing ultra clean and ensures every square holds together beautifully.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Lift the brownies from the pan using the parchment paper overhang, then slice them into neat squares. Serve them plain, or dress things up with a swirl of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a truly indulgent treat.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate these brownies with a simple garnish—think freshly whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a handful of fresh raspberries. The classic red-and-white look pops beautifully, and a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips or white chocolate curls takes them straight into bakery-worthy territory.

Side Dishes

Pairing your Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a glass of cold milk, or a hot espresso is like sending your taste buds on vacation. For parties, consider serving alongside a fruit salad or coffee for a delightfully balanced dessert plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, cut your brownies into bite-sized hearts or diamonds. Stack them in a tower for a jaw-dropping centerpiece, or package individual bars in cute boxes for edible gifts everyone will remember. These brownies love a little drama and always steal the show!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The cheesecake layer keeps everything moist, and the flavors become even more sumptuous with a little time to mingle. They’re perfect for sneaky weeknight treats or sharing with late-night guests.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Store in the freezer for up to two months. When a craving strikes, simply thaw in the fridge overnight for a treat that tastes fresh-baked.

Reheating

If you’d like your Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe warm and gooey, microwave individual bars for about 10 to 15 seconds. Serve warm with ice cream for a next-level dessert experience!

FAQs

Can I double this Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Keep an eye on the baking time—you may need a few extra minutes, but all that swirl and tang will be just as delightful.

What’s the best type of red food coloring to use?

Liquid red food coloring gives classic results, but gel colors are even more vibrant—ideal if you want unmistakable red velvet magic. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s a good quality product for lovely color without bitterness.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Check that your cocoa powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free, and you’ll have rich, fudgy, gluten-free brownies everyone will enjoy.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

You can, but full-fat cream cheese is best for the creamiest, richest cheesecake layer. Reduced fat versions can sometimes alter the texture and create a less decadent bite, but if you prefer them, just make sure they’re softened well before mixing.

How long do these brownies need to chill before slicing?

A 30-minute chill in the fridge is ideal for cleaner slices and a perfect set, but you can chill them for longer if needed. The brownies are delicious even a day or two later—they just get creamier and richer!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about sharing a batch of Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe with friends or family—every bite brings that wow factor! If you’re after a dessert that stuns in both looks and flavor, this recipe won’t let you down. Grab your ingredients and give it a try; your taste buds will thank you later.