Description
These Red Velvet Brownies offer a delightful twist on the classic brownie with a rich red hue, a subtle cocoa flavor, and a creamy white chocolate cream cheese swirl. Perfectly moist and tender, these brownies combine the flavors of red velvet cake and traditional brownies in one irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the brownies after baking.
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until well combined. Add the egg, red food coloring, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth. Sift in the cocoa powder, salt, and flour. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in the white chocolate chips if using, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, egg yolk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy, without any lumps.
- Assemble the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking. Dollop the cream cheese mixture sporadically over the top of the brownie batter. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cream cheese into the batter, creating a marbled pattern for a beautiful presentation and balanced flavor in each bite.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into 12 equal squares and serve as a delicious dessert or snack.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature eggs and softened cream cheese to ensure smooth batter and swirl mixture.
- White chocolate chips are optional but add a lovely sweetness and texture contrast.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter once the flour is added to keep the brownies tender.
- Storing brownies in an airtight container at room temperature will keep them fresh for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with vegan alternatives.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
