Description
Indulge in rich, creamy Red Velvet Brownie Cheesecake Bars that perfectly combine the fudgy chocolate brownie base with a smooth, tangy cheesecake layer, all infused with the iconic red velvet flavor. This decadent dessert is simple to make, visually stunning, and perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any sweet craving.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1–2 tablespoons red food coloring
Cheesecake Layer Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons sour cream or heavy cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: Melt the butter and mix it with cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and glossy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract. Stir in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt just until combined. Finally, add red food coloring to achieve the classic red velvet color.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Blend in the egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream or heavy cream to create a creamy, tangy cheesecake mixture ready for layering.
- Layer and Swirl: Pour half of the brownie batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan, spreading evenly. Gently dollop half of the cheesecake mixture on top and spread carefully to maintain distinct layers. Repeat with the remaining brownie batter and cheesecake mixture. For a marbled effect, gently swirl the two layers with a knife.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes until the top is set and slightly golden around the edges. Insert a toothpick in the center to check doneness; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the bars to cool completely to let the layers firm up. Cut into squares and enjoy the moist red velvet brownie base with the creamy cheesecake topping.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Do not overmix the batter; blend ingredients just until combined to keep brownies tender and dense.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal of bars without breaking.
- Check doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out mostly clean with moist crumbs.
- Cool completely before slicing to prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking or crumbling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg