why make this recipe
Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies are a delightful twist on classic brownies, combining the rich flavors of red velvet cake with a creamy, tangy cream cheese layer. The vibrant red color adds a fun and festive touch, making these brownies perfect for celebrations or simply for satisfying a sweet tooth. They are easy to make and offer a delicious blend of textures, from the fudgy brownie base to the smooth cream cheese topping. Whether for a party or just a cozy night in, these brownies will impress everyone.
how to make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies
Ingredients :
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and line an 8 by 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth.
- Add in the eggs, vanilla, and red food coloring, mixing well.
- Sift the cocoa powder, flour, and salt into the bowl and stir until just combined. Set aside about 1/4 cup of this batter for swirling on top.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Spread most of the red velvet batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter and gently spread it out.
- Drop spoonfuls of the reserved red velvet batter on top of the cream cheese layer and swirl lightly with a knife.
- Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
how to serve Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies
Serve these brownies warm or at room temperature. They can be cut into squares and enjoyed as is, or topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a special treat. They also make a great dessert for gatherings, and placing them on a lovely plate will surely impress your guests.
how to store Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
tips to make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Brownies
- Make sure the cream cheese is completely softened before mixing it for a smoother consistency.
- Don’t overmix the brownie batter; it should be stirred just enough to combine the ingredients.
- For an extra indulgent treat, consider adding chocolate chips into the brownie batter or topping them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
variation
You can customize these brownies by adding crushed walnuts or pecans to the batter for added texture. Another variation is to use different food coloring for a unique visual effect. You can also try adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top for a richer taste.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of food coloring?
Yes, you can use any food coloring you prefer. Just ensure that the color is bold enough to achieve a vibrant look.
2. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it is a 1:1 substitute for best results.
3. How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Avoid overbaking to keep them fudgy.