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Red Velvet Brownie Cheesecake Bars

red velvet brownie cheesecake bars - featured image

These red velvet brownie cheesecake bars combine a moist, fudgy red velvet brownie base with a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer for a visually stunning and delicious dessert that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tablespoons red food coloring (gel recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Make the red velvet brownie batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined; do not overmix.
  3. Prepare the cheesecake layer: Using a mixer, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Add sugar and continue mixing until creamy. Beat in egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream until smooth and well combined.
  4. Assemble the bars: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Spoon or dollop the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer and spread evenly. Drop spoonfuls of remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the layers together for a marbled effect.
  5. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until edges are set but center still jiggles slightly. Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Chill in the fridge for at least two hours before slicing into squares.

Notes

Do not overmix the brownie batter to avoid toughness. Use room temperature ingredients for best texture. Soften cream cheese before mixing to prevent lumps. Swirling the layers is optional but recommended for a beautiful marbled effect. Chill bars before slicing for clean cuts. Variations include adding nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit jam. Gluten-free and dairy-free substitutions are possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: red velvet, brownie, cheesecake, dessert bars, easy dessert, homemade dessert, chocolate, cream cheese