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Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl

fudgy red velvet brownies with cream cheese swirl - featured image

These fudgy red velvet brownies feature a rich chocolate base with a tangy cream cheese swirl, creating a perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity. Easy to make with pantry staples, they are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons red food coloring (gel preferred)
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the cream cheese swirl mixture: Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Add egg yolk and vanilla extract, mix until fully combined and smooth. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder until evenly mixed.
  4. Add vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
  5. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  6. Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the batter.
  7. Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cream cheese dollops, trying not to disturb them.
  8. Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter, creating a marbled pattern.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes until edges are set but the center is slightly soft. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
  10. Cool the brownies completely on a wire rack for at least one hour before slicing.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese for a smooth swirl. Do not overmix the brownie batter to keep it fudgy. Gel food coloring is preferred for vibrant color without affecting texture. Let brownies cool completely before slicing for clean edges. If cream cheese cracks during baking, reduce oven temperature by 10°F (5°C).

Nutrition

Keywords: red velvet brownies, cream cheese swirl, fudgy brownies, easy brownies, homemade dessert, chocolate dessert, quick brownies