Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for cheesecake layer)
- 1 large egg (for cheesecake layer)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cheesecake layer)
If you’re out of red food coloring, beet juice is a natural substitute that works wonderfully. For a deeper flavor, try substituting half of the cocoa powder with dark cocoa powder.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and red food coloring.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be mindful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Pour about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread this cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer in the pan.
- Dollop the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer, using a knife to gently swirl the layers together. Aim for a marbled effect that will be visually stunning once baked.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bites to cool in the pan for at least an hour before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Slice into bite-sized squares and enjoy.
As you bake, remember that cooking is as much about the journey as it is the destination. Embrace the process, and don’t stress over perfection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International