Indulge in the luxurious fusion of rich chocolate and tangy cream cheese with these Decadent Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Bars. This dessert combines the beloved flavors of red velvet cake with the creamy texture of cheesecake, layered over a moist, dense brownie base. The striking red hue of the brownies paired with the creamy white of the cheesecake layer not only tastes divine but also presents beautifully, making these bars as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Why You’ll Love This
These cheesecake brownie bars are the perfect treat for anyone who loves red velvet and cheesecake. The brownie base offers a slight cocoa flavor enhanced by vanilla and a touch of salt, providing a rich canvas for the cheesecake topping. The swirls of red velvet throughout the cheesecake not only add a gourmet touch but also ensure that each bite includes a harmonious blend of flavors.
Perfect Occasion
Perfect for celebrations, holiday gatherings, or as a special treat for dessert lovers, these bars can serve as a standout dish at potlucks, a delightful treat at tea parties, or a thoughtful homemade gift. Their festive color makes them particularly appealing for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, and Fourth of July celebrations.
Decoration Tips
For an extra elegant touch, sprinkle the top with a dusting of cocoa powder or drizzle with a simple white chocolate ganache. To make them fit for a festive occasion, top each bar with a small dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of red velvet crumbs or a fresh raspberry for a burst of color.
Ingredients:
- For the Brownies:
- ½ cup (114g) butter, melted
- ¼ cup (22.5g) cocoa powder
- ¾ cup (75g) sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp red food coloring
- ⅔ cup (92g) all-purpose flour
- For the Cheesecake:
- 8 oz (250g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 3 Tbsp (37g) sugar
- 1 large egg
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Brownie Layer:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine melted butter and cocoa powder. Stir in sugar until well combined.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then whisk in eggs, red food coloring, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Fold in the flour until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, egg, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, reserving a few tablespoons for topping.
- Smooth the surface with a spatula, then pour over the cheesecake mixture. Smooth the top.
- Drop dollops of reserved brownie batter on top of the cheesecake layer. Use a toothpick or a knife to swirl the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake and Cool:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few crumbs.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Bars offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors that make them a must-try for any dessert enthusiast. Enjoy these gorgeous, tasty treats at your next gathering, or simply as a special indulgence at the end of a long day.
