Velvety Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Bars Recipe

Dreamy Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Bars Recipe: Fudgy Bliss!

Red velvet cheesecake brownie bars blend two decadent desserts into one irresistible treat.

The classic red velvet flavor swirls perfectly with rich, creamy cheesecake and fudgy brownie layers.

Chocolate lovers will melt at the first bite of these stunning bars.

Each slice promises a luxurious combination of textures and deep, indulgent flavors.

The vibrant red color adds a stunning visual appeal that makes these bars impossible to resist.

Guests will be impressed by the elegant marbled appearance and complex taste profile.

Prepare to wow everyone with this show-stopping dessert that elevates your baking game.

Kitchen Tools For Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Bars

  • 8×8-inch baking dish: Essential for creating perfectly sized brownies with an even layer.
  • Parchment paper: Crucial for easy removal and preventing sticking of the bars.
  • Large mixing bowls: Needed for preparing both brownie and cheesecake layers separately.
  • Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly and eliminating lumps.
  • Electric mixer or hand mixer: Helps create creamy cheesecake mixture and combine wet ingredients.
  • Spatula: Great for spreading batters evenly and scraping bowl sides.
  • Toothpick or knife: Useful for creating beautiful swirl effect on top of bars.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities.
  • Sifter: Helps remove lumps from dry ingredients like cocoa powder and flour.

How To Bake Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Bars Smoothly

  • Oven Preparation

Warm up the oven to a cozy 350F. Line a baking dish with parchment paper, creating little handles for easy lifting later.

  • Red Velvet Base

Mix melted butter and sugar into a silky smooth blend. Splash in eggs, vanilla, and a dash of vibrant red color. Gently fold cocoa powder, flour, and a pinch of salt into the mixture. Pour this gorgeous crimson batter into the prepared pan, spreading it with love.

  • Creamy Cheesecake Layer

Whip cream cheese until it becomes dreamy and soft. Blend in sugar, egg, and vanilla until everything looks perfectly smooth. Pour this cloud-like mixture over the red velvet foundation.

  • Swirling Magic

Dot small patches of remaining red batter across the cheesecake surface. Dance a toothpick through these spots, creating a mesmerizing marble effect that looks like edible artwork.

  • Baking Adventure

Slide the pan into the warm oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center looks set and stable. Let the bars cool completely, then chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours to firm up.

  • Serving Delight

Lift the bars out using the parchment paper edges. Slice into squares and enjoy these decadent treats chilled or at room temperature.

Flavor Twists For Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Bars

  • Perfect Texture Tricks: Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and prevent lumpy batters, creating a silky-smooth cheesecake layer that blends seamlessly with the rich red velvet base.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: These bars can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making them ideal for party planning or unexpected dessert cravings.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these decadent bars accessible for those with gluten sensitivities. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for best texture.
  • Decorative Finishing Touches: Enhance the visual appeal by drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled bars or sprinkling crushed cream cheese frosting cookies on top for extra crunch and sweetness.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Replace cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and use coconut oil instead of butter. Use egg substitutes like flax eggs to create a completely dairy-free version that maintains the rich, indulgent flavor profile.

Ways To Serve Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Bars Creatively

  • Sweet Celebration Platter: Arrange the bars on a elegant white cake stand, dusted with powdered sugar and garnished with fresh raspberries for a stunning dessert centerpiece.
  • Decadent Dessert Pairing: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich, velvety texture of the brownie bars.
  • Coffee Companion Treat: Plate the bars with a steaming cappuccino or espresso, allowing the deep chocolate and creamy cheesecake flavors to mingle beautifully with a warm beverage.
  • Gifting Gourmet Option: Package individual bars in clear gift boxes with a satin ribbon, perfect for holiday presents or special occasion treats that showcase your baking skills.

Storing Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Bars Without Drying

  • Smart Refrigeration Strategy: Store the bars in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh and maintaining their delicate texture and rich flavor profile.
  • Freezing Magic: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container to store for 2-3 months, perfect for make-ahead dessert lovers who want a quick sweet treat anytime.
  • Slice & Separation Trick: Place parchment paper or wax paper between layers when storing multiple bars to prevent sticking and preserve their beautiful swirled appearance.
  • Temperature Wisdom: Allow refrigerated bars to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly, enhancing their creamy cheesecake layer and bringing out the rich, decadent flavors.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Calories: 290 kcal

Servings: 11

Ingredients For Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Bars

For Base and Structure:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides essential structure and texture to the brownie layer.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate depth and contributes to the classic red velvet color.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the dessert.
For Moisture and Binding:
  • Butter: Creates a luxurious, tender crumb and rich flavor in the brownie base.
  • Eggs: Binds ingredients together and adds moisture and richness.
  • Vanilla Extract: Rounds out flavors and adds aromatic depth to both layers.
For Color and Flavor Enhancement:
  • Red Food Coloring: Gives the signature vibrant red hue to the classic red velvet style.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and helps create a smooth, tender texture in both layers.
  • Cream Cheese: Provides a tangy, creamy element to the cheesecake topping.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Velvety Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Bars Recipe

Velvety Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Bars Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 11 1x

Description

Red velvet cheesecake brownie bars blend luxurious dessert layers with rich chocolate and cream cheese. Chocolate lovers will savor this indulgent Southern-inspired treat that promises delightful complexity in each elegant square.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 ⅓ cups (265 g) granulated sugar
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¾ cup (95 g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp red food coloring
  • 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), positioning rack in the center.
  2. Brownie Base: Whisk melted butter with granulated sugar until smooth. Blend in eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Fold sifted cocoa powder, flour, and salt into the mixture, maintaining a delicate texture. Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan, reserving a small portion for swirling.
  3. Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese and sugar until velvety. Incorporate egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Gently pour cheesecake mixture over the red velvet base, ensuring complete coverage.
  4. Marbling: Dot reserved red velvet batter across the cheesecake surface. Use a toothpick or thin knife to create intricate swirls, generating an artistic pattern.
  5. Baking: Slide the pan into the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, monitoring for a set center and clean toothpick test.
  6. Cooling and Setting: Remove from oven and cool completely at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to achieve optimal consistency and flavor melding.
  7. Serving: Extract the dessert from the pan using parchment paper edges. Slice into precise squares, revealing the stunning red velvet and cheesecake layers.

Notes

  • Prevent Overmixing: Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture to maintain a light, tender brownie texture without developing tough gluten strands.
  • Color Calibration: Use gel food coloring for vibrant red hue without thinning the batter, ensuring rich color and consistent consistency.
  • Temperature Control: Allow cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing to create smoother, lump-free cheesecake layer and ensure even blending.
  • Swirling Technique: Use a toothpick or thin knife with gentle, fluid motions when creating marbled effect to avoid over-mixing and maintain distinct color separation.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 11
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 22 g
  • Sodium: 160 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Liam O’Sullivan

Liam O’Sullivan

Founder & Culinary Content Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development​, Traditional Irish and European Cuisines, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education​

Education

Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) – School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology

  • Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development.​

Ballymaloe Cookery School

  • Program: 12-Week Certificate Course
  • Focus: Intensive, hands-on experience emphasizing farm-to-table cooking and sustainable practices.​

Isabella brings a global spark to the Craft Meats table. Born in Florence and trained at the Apicius International School of Hospitality, she blends classic Italian flavor with modern writing that’s easy to follow and hard to forget. 

Her additional training at the Italian Chef Academy fueled her love for well-crafted dishes, especially ones that spotlight beautiful cuts of meat.

She’s a food writer with heart, and a deep love for storytelling through single recipes. Her goal? To help you cook with more confidence and a little more joy, no matter where you start.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star