If you ever dreamed of a dessert that masterfully combines rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and a playful crunch of cookies, then the Cookies and Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful treat has everything you want: the signature vibrant red velvet base paired with luscious cookies and cream cheesecake swirled perfectly together, creating a bite that’s as stunning as it is satisfying. Each forkful brings a harmonious dance of flavors and textures, making these brownies an irresistible indulgence that’s sure to wow your family and friends at your next get-together or cozy night in.

Cookies and Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making the Cookies and Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is a breeze with simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each component plays a crucial role—from the buttery richness and smooth cocoa to the creamy cheesecake layer with crunchy cookie bits that elevate the dessert to new heights.

1/2 cup melted butter: Provides a rich, moist base essential for that classic brownie texture.
1 cup sugar: Sweetens the brownies just right without overpowering the cocoa’s subtle bitterness.
2 eggs: Acts as a binder, holding all those delicious ingredients together with a tender crumb.
1 teaspoon vanilla: Adds a warm, fragrant background flavor that complements the red velvet.
1 tablespoon red food coloring: Gives the brownies their signature striking red hue, setting them apart visually.
1/4 cup cocoa powder: Infuses a mild chocolate flavor crucial to red velvet’s charm.
3/4 cup flour: The backbone of the brownie, lending structure and just enough chewiness.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the velvety cheesecake layer that brings a tangy contrast.
1/3 cup sugar: Sweetens the creamy cheesecake without making it cloying.
1 egg: Helps the cheesecake set perfectly with a smooth texture.
8 to 10 crushed Oreos: Adds delightful crunchy cookie pieces that give the brownies their famous cookies and cream twist.

How to Make Cookies and Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, creating the perfect environment for baking these heavenly brownies. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, which makes cleanup effortless and ensures your brownies release easily once baked.

Step 2: Make the Red Velvet Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and red food coloring until smooth and well combined. This mixture forms the rich, moist foundation of your brownies. Next, sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and a pinch of salt, folding gently until just combined—you want to avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender. Reserve a few spoonfuls of this batter for a gorgeous swirl later, then spread the rest evenly into your prepared pan.

Step 3: Prepare the Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, egg, and vanilla until silky-smooth with no lumps. This luscious cheesecake layer is going to make these brownies truly unforgettable. Gently fold in the crushed Oreos, ensuring that each bite will have that satisfying cookies and cream crunch.

Step 4: Assemble and Create That Stunning Swirl

Spread the cookies and cream cheesecake mixture evenly over the red velvet brownie base. Then, dollop the reserved red velvet brownie batter on top in small mounds. Using a knife or skewer, create swirls by dragging through the batter and cheesecake in a figure-eight or circular pattern. This not only looks stunning but lets the two layers mingle beautifully in every bite.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your masterpiece into the oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes, until the edges are set and the center looks just slightly soft—a perfect balance that gives brownies their signature fudgy texture. Once baked, let the pan cool completely before slicing to ensure those gorgeous layers stay clean and distinct.

How to Serve Cookies and Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

For a simple yet stunning presentation, sprinkle extra crushed Oreos or a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of white chocolate to amp up the decadence and wow your guests.

Side Dishes

These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a tall glass of cold milk. The creaminess of the sides balances the rich brownie layers perfectly, creating a dessert experience that feels indulgent but comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut these into bite-sized squares and serve on a decorative platter for parties, or slice thicker pieces and top them with fresh berries and mint leaves to add freshness and a pop of color. For a fun twist, layer crumbled Cookies and Cream Red Velvet Brownies in parfait glasses with whipped cream and cookie crumbs for a no-fuss dessert presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Cookies and Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigeration keeps them moist and flavorful for up to a week—just bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies to enjoy later by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag or container. Frozen brownies maintain their quality for up to three months, so you’ll always have a sweet treat on hand when the craving strikes.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked feel, warm your brownies in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or until slightly heated through. This quick reheat enhances the gooey texture, especially if enjoyed with a melting scoop of ice cream.

FAQs

Can I use regular cream cheese instead of softened?

It’s best to use softened cream cheese for the cheesecake layer because it blends smoothly without lumps, ensuring a creamy texture. If your cream cheese is cold, microwave it for 15-20 seconds or leave it at room temperature until soft.

What kind of Oreos work best for this recipe?

Classic Oreos are perfect for the Cookies and Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe because of their iconic flavor and texture. However, feel free to experiment with different Oreo varieties if you want to add a fun twist!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap out the regular flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just make sure your Oreos and other ingredients are also gluten-free to keep the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Is red food coloring necessary?

The red food coloring gives these brownies their signature red velvet appearance, but if you prefer a more natural approach, you can use beet juice or powder. Just know the color won’t be as vibrant but the flavor will remain wonderful.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Look for set edges and a slightly soft center—the brownies will continue to firm up as they cool. A toothpick inserted into the middle may come out with a few moist crumbs but shouldn’t be wet with batter.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Cookies and Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe—it’s truly one of those desserts that bring so much joy from the first bite to the last crumb. The blend of velvety red velvet, creamy cheesecake, and crunchy cookies is just pure magic. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these brownies are guaranteed to delight. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire that everyone will ask for again and again.