Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

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If you’re craving something rich, fudgy, and absolutely gorgeous, these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are here to steal the show. The striking swirls of deep red velvet and creamy cheesecake not only make these brownies visually irresistible, but their melt-in-your-mouth texture and perfectly balanced flavor make them a total crowd-pleaser.

This dessert is the ultimate combination of two classic favorites—brownies and cheesecake—swirled together in a single pan of joy. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, potluck, or just because your sweet tooth says so, these brownies will never let you down.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

• They’re incredibly moist and fudgy with a hint of cocoa
• The cheesecake swirl adds a creamy tangy contrast to the rich brownie base
• Beautiful marbled look that impresses without extra effort
• Perfect for gifting, holidays, or dressing up your dessert table
• Easy to prepare and beginner-friendly

What Makes Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies So Special?

The red velvet base isn’t just chocolate—it brings a subtle cocoa flavor blended with vanilla and a hint of tang from the vinegar, which is key to that iconic red velvet profile. When you swirl in a velvety cheesecake layer, it transforms these brownies into a bakery-style treat that hits every flavor and texture note. Plus, you get the drama of that red and white marbled top without needing any fancy techniques.

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Ingredients for the Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Each ingredient in this recipe brings something essential to the flavor or texture. Let’s break down why you need them:

• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture, giving the brownies their fudgy bite.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps achieve that classic brownie texture.
• Large eggs: Provide structure and keep the batter creamy and smooth.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances both the red velvet and cheesecake flavors.
• White vinegar: Gives red velvet its signature tang and helps deepen the red hue.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a gentle chocolate note to the red velvet base.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure without making the brownies cakey.
• Red food coloring: Delivers the bold red color that makes red velvet so iconic.
• Cream cheese: Forms the creamy, tangy layer that swirls beautifully into the brownie batter.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer while keeping it silky-smooth.

How To Make the Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Brownie Base

In a mixing bowl, melt the butter and stir in the sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla, vinegar, and red food coloring. Mix in cocoa powder and flour until just combined. Set aside 1/4 cup of this batter for later.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and lump-free.

Step 3: Layer and Swirl

Spread the red velvet batter into a parchment-lined baking dish. Dollop the cheesecake mixture on top and gently spread. Add the reserved red velvet batter in spoonfuls over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or skewer to swirl for a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 28-32 minutes, or until the center is just set and edges are slightly pulling away from the pan. Let them cool before slicing into perfect squares.

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How to Serve and Store Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

These brownies are best served once they’ve cooled completely to allow the cheesecake to set properly. Slice them into neat squares using a sharp knife cleaned between each cut. You can serve them slightly chilled for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a creamier bite. This recipe yields about 16 medium-sized squares, making it ideal for sharing at gatherings or packing into lunchboxes.

To store, place them in an airtight container. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If stacking them, use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They also freeze beautifully for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

What to Serve With Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies?

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the tangy cheesecake swirl and fudgy base.

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries offer a refreshing contrast and a pop of color.

Whipped Cream

Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a delightful airiness to each rich bite.

Coffee or Espresso

A strong cup of coffee balances the sweetness and deepens the chocolate notes.

Glass of Cold Milk

A timeless combo that never fails, especially for kids or nostalgic dessert lovers.

Drizzle of Chocolate or Caramel Sauce

For those extra indulgent moments, a light drizzle can take these brownies to the next level.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

A simple but elegant touch that adds a bakery-style finish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boxed brownie mix instead of making the base from scratch?
Yes, you can! If you’re short on time, a boxed red velvet cake or brownie mix will work as the base. Just follow the package instructions and layer in the cheesecake swirl as directed.

Do I need to use gel or liquid food coloring?
Either works, but gel food coloring is more concentrated and gives a more vibrant red hue without altering the texture of your batter.

Can these brownies be made gluten-free?
Absolutely. Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure your other ingredients (like food coloring and cocoa powder) are also gluten-free.

How do I get perfect swirls on top?
Use a skewer, knife, or even the tip of a chopstick to gently drag through the layers. Don’t over-swirl; a few figure-eight motions are enough to create a stunning marbled effect.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time. And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add liqueur or leave it out? Did you try chocolate on top?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.

Check out more recipes on my Pinterest here →

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are proof that combining two desserts can create something truly special. With their eye-catching swirls and rich, tangy flavor, they’re the kind of treat people remember. Easy to make, easy to love, and even easier to share—this is one dessert recipe you’ll be coming back to again and again.

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