These decadent dessert bars combine the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet with a creamy cheesecake swirl, making them a delightful treat for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons red food coloring
8 ounces cream cheese
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for cheesecake layer)
1 large egg (for cheesecake layer)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cheesecake layer)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar until well combined.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Mix in the red food coloring until the batter is evenly colored and smooth.
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly across the base.
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sugar. Beat until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until incorporated.
Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cheesecake into the brownie batter gently.
Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer, spreading it evenly. Swirl the top lightly with a knife.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then lift the brownies out using the parchment paper and let cool completely on a wire rack.
Once completely cooled, cut into squares and enjoy!
