If you're a fan of rich, velvety red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake, you’re in for a real treat with this Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies Recipe. This dessert combines the moist, slightly tangy flavor of red velvet brownies with the creamy richness of cheesecake, creating a beautiful, swirl-topped masterpiece. The combination of textures and flavors is divine, making these brownies a show-stopping dessert for holidays, special occasions, or just when you want to indulge in something truly special.
In this article, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to help you make the perfect batch of red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies.
Let’s get baking!

What Are Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies?
Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies are a decadent dessert that blends the classic flavors of red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake into one irresistible treat. The base is a fudgy red velvet brownie, while the top is a rich cheesecake layer swirled into the brownies to create a stunning marble effect. The brownies are slightly tangy from the buttermilk or vinegar and cocoa, while the cheesecake layer adds a rich, creamy balance.
Ingredients List for Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies
Red Velvet Brownie Layer Ingredients:
- ½ cup of unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon of red food coloring (gel food coloring works best)
- 1 teaspoon of white vinegar
- 2 tablespoon of cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- ¾ cup of all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
Cheesecake Swirl Ingredients:
- 8 oz of cream cheese (softened, room temperature)
- ¼ cup of granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract
Substitutions and Variations
Here are a few ways to modify or customize your red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies:
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour mix.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free version.
- Swirl Variations: For an extra chocolatey twist, add a layer of melted dark chocolate between the red velvet layer and the cheesecake swirl.
- Natural Red Food Coloring: If you prefer to avoid artificial food coloring, you can use beet juice or natural red food dye, though the red color may be less intense.
- Cream Cheese Frosting Drizzle: For an added touch of indulgence, drizzle cream cheese frosting over the top of the brownies after baking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create your own batch of beautiful and delicious red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies.
Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Brownie Layer
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang to make it easy to lift the brownies out later.
- Melt the butter and mix in sugar: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the granulated sugar until well combined.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add food coloring and vinegar: Mix in the red food coloring and white vinegar. The vinegar helps to bring out the tangy flavor typical of red velvet desserts.
- Sift in the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Spread the batter in the pan: Pour about ¾ of the red velvet brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Reserve the remaining ¼ of the batter for later.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Swirl
- Beat the cream cheese: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla: Add the granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Brownies
- Add the cheesecake layer: Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the top of the red velvet brownie layer in the pan.
- Swirl in the remaining red velvet batter: Drop small spoonfuls of the reserved red velvet brownie batter on top of the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the two batters together, creating a marbled effect. Be careful not to over-swirl, as you want to keep distinct streaks of red velvet and cheesecake visible.
Step 4: Bake the Brownies
- Bake the brownies: Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. Once cool, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
- Chill before cutting: For the best texture and clean slices, refrigerate the brownies for at least 1-2 hours before cutting into squares. This helps the cheesecake layer firm up nicely.
How to Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a quick overview of the process:
- Prepare the red velvet batter: Melt butter, mix with sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Add red food coloring and vinegar, then stir in dry ingredients.
- Make the cheesecake swirl: Beat cream cheese with sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla.
- Assemble the brownies: Layer most of the red velvet batter in the pan, top with spoonfuls of cheesecake, and swirl in the remaining red velvet batter.
- Bake and cool: Bake for 25-30 minutes, then let the brownies cool completely before cutting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few tips to ensure your red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies turn out perfectly:
- Overmixing the batter: Be careful not to overmix the red velvet brownie batter after adding the dry ingredients, as this can make the brownies tough.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the brownies as they bake. You want them to be slightly fudgy, so check for doneness around the 25-minute mark. Overbaking can dry them out.
- Skipping the cooling process: It’s essential to let the brownies cool completely before cutting them. Cheesecake needs time to set properly, so be patient!
- Too much swirling: Don’t over-swirl the cheesecake and brownie batters, or you’ll lose the distinct marbled pattern. A few gentle swirls are enough to create the effect.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Here’s how to make your red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies look as good as they taste:
- Serve chilled or at room temperature: For the best texture, chill the brownies in the fridge before serving. However, they can also be served at room temperature if preferred.
- Use a clean knife for neat slices: To get clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each cut. This prevents the cheesecake layer from sticking to the knife.
- Garnish with powdered sugar: For an elegant touch, dust the brownies with powdered sugar just before serving.
- Add whipped cream: Serve the brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Presentation Ideas for Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies
Here are a few ways to make your red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies stand out:
- Heart-Shaped Brownies: Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to make adorable heart-shaped brownies, perfect for Valentine’s Day or special occasions.
- Brownie Sundaes: Top a square of brownie with a scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for a decadent brownie sundae.
- Tiered Display: Stack the brownie squares on a tiered cake stand for an eye-catching dessert display at parties or gatherings.
Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies Recipe Tips
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps everything blend smoothly and prevents lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Chill before serving: For the best texture, refrigerate the brownies before cutting and serving. This makes the cheesecake layer firmer and easier to slice.
- Use gel food coloring: Gel food coloring gives the most vibrant red color without adding too much liquid to the batter.
- Don’t rush the swirl: When swirling the cheesecake and brownie batters together, take your time. A few gentle swirls are all you need for a beautiful marbled effect.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies ahead of time?
Yes! These brownies actually taste even better after they’ve chilled in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. You can
make them 1-2 days ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
2. How do I store red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies?
Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They taste great chilled!
3. Can I freeze red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies?
Yes, you can freeze these brownies. Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
4. Can I use a different color instead of red for the brownies?
Absolutely! You can use blue, purple, or any other food coloring for a fun twist on the traditional red velvet look. This could be a great idea for themed parties or holidays.
5. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
If you’re out of cream cheese, you can substitute with mascarpone cheese, though the texture may be slightly different. Mascarpone has a milder flavor but still works well in this recipe.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies are the ultimate combination of two classic desserts: red velvet cake and cheesecake. With their beautiful marbled appearance, rich flavors, and fudgy texture, these brownies are sure to impress at any gathering. Follow the steps and tips in this guide, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning dessert that’s as delicious as it is visually appealing. So, whether you’re making them for a holiday, a special celebration, or simply to treat yourself, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy!
PrintRed Velvet Cheesecake Swirl Brownies Recipe
These red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies are a perfect blend of rich red velvet and creamy cheesecake. With a striking red color and beautiful swirl pattern, they’re an impressive yet easy dessert ideal for holidays, parties, or any special occasion. Keywords: Red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies, red velvet brownies, cheesecake swirl dessert, fudgy brownies, easy red velvet recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- For the Red Velvet Brownies:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- For the Cheesecake Swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until combined. Add eggs, vanilla, red food coloring, and vinegar, and mix well. Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until a smooth batter forms.
- Make the Cheesecake Swirl: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
- Assemble the Brownies: Pour the red velvet batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the top. Using a knife or toothpick, swirl the cheesecake mixture into the red velvet batter to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool completely in the pan before slicing.
- Serve: Slice into squares and enjoy the fudgy red velvet brownies with creamy cheesecake swirls
Notes
- Be careful not to overbake to keep the brownies fudgy.
- For extra richness, serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
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