When the crisp air of autumn rolls in and kitchens begin to fill with the warm aroma of baking, there’s no better time to indulge in rich, decadent desserts. Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies combine the best of two worlds: the fudgy, chocolatey goodness of brownies and the creamy, tangy elegance of cheesecake. Whether you’re searching for Thanksgiving recipes that wow your guests or fall recipes that bring comfort and warmth, this dessert is guaranteed to be the showstopper of your holiday spread.
Perfect for sharing at family gatherings, potlucks, or as a cozy weekend treat, these brownies aren’t just a dessert—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and seasonal charm.
Why These Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Are a Fall Favorite
Fall desserts are all about warmth, richness, and a hint of indulgence. This recipe delivers exactly that, with vibrant red velvet layers providing a visual feast and the luscious cheesecake swirl adding a creamy contrast. The result is a dessert that looks as good as it tastes—ideal for both casual baking and holiday hosting.
And let’s face it—when you’re browsing Thanksgiving recipes or looking for crowd-pleasing fall recipes, you want something memorable without being overly complicated. This recipe checks all those boxes.
Ingredients for Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
To make these stunning brownies, you’ll need two main components: the red velvet brownie layer and the cheesecake swirl.
For the Red Velvet Brownie Batter:
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1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
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1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
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Pinch of salt
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1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel or liquid)
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1 teaspoon white vinegar
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2 large eggs, room temperature
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3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
For the Cheesecake Swirl:
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8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
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1 large egg, room temperature
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Having the right tools makes baking more efficient and enjoyable:
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Mixing bowls (medium and large)
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Hand mixer or stand mixer
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
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8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan
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Parchment paper
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Toothpick or skewer (for swirling the batter)
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Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line your 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting later. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2: Make the Red Velvet Brownie Batter
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In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until combined.
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Add the vanilla extract and cocoa powder. Mix until smooth.
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Stir in a pinch of salt, red food coloring, and vinegar.
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Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
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Fold in the flour just until combined—do not overmix, as this can make the brownies tough.
3: Prepare the Cheesecake Swirl
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In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
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Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and lump-free.
4: Assemble the Brownies
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Pour three-quarters of the red velvet brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
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Gently spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer.
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Dollop the remaining brownie batter on top of the cheesecake layer.
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Use a toothpick or skewer to create swirls by dragging it through both layers.
5: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not raw batter).
6: Cool and Serve
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper and cut them into squares.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies
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Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can create dense brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture.
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Use gel food coloring for vibrant red – Gel provides a richer hue without altering the batter’s consistency.
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Room temperature ingredients – Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother, lump-free batter.
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Chill before slicing – For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the brownies for about 30 minutes before slicing.
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Flavor variations – Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the brownie batter for a deeper chocolate flavor, or sprinkle crushed pecans over the top for a nutty crunch.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
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At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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In the fridge: Store for up to 5 days for optimal freshness.
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In the freezer: Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving – Based on 12 Servings)
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Calories: ~240 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 26g
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Protein: 3g
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Fat: 14g
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Saturated Fat: 8g
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Cholesterol: 60mg
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Sodium: 110mg
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Sugar: 20g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Why This Dessert Works for Thanksgiving and Fall Gatherings
When curating your Thanksgiving recipes, you want a mix of tradition and surprise. Pumpkin pie and pecan pie might be the classics, but these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies bring a modern twist that still feels seasonal. The rich colors—deep red against creamy white—echo autumn’s vibrant palette, while the flavors provide warmth and comfort.
For fall recipes, versatility is key. These brownies can be served slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream for a cozy treat, or chilled for a firmer, cheesecake-like texture. They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or a dessert wine, making them an adaptable choice for any fall gathering.
Serving Suggestions
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As a plated dessert: Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on the plate before placing the brownie square.
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With fresh berries: The tanginess of raspberries or strawberries complements the richness of the brownies.
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With ice cream: Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Bringing It All Together
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, these Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. They’re festive enough to serve at a holiday dinner but easy enough to whip up for a cozy weekend baking session.
If your goal is to create memorable Thanksgiving recipes that your guests will request year after year, or you’re looking to add to your collection of go-to fall recipes, this dessert is your ticket to sweet success.
The combination of fudgy red velvet and creamy cheesecake is nothing short of irresistible. One bite, and you’ll understand why this recipe is destined to be a seasonal favorite.
Final Word: This fall, let your baking be as colorful as the leaves outside. With their striking appearance and rich flavor, Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies are more than just a dessert—they’re a statement piece for your holiday table. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and create a treat that will make your Thanksgiving unforgettable.
