Description
Red Velvet Cream Cheese Bars are rich, layered dessert bars that combine the bold cocoa flavor of red velvet with a creamy, tangy cream cheese filling. Perfect for festive occasions or anytime you want a visually stunning, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Units
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- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream cheese layer)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease lightly.
- In a bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir in vanilla extract and red food coloring.
- In another bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour about two-thirds of the red velvet batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the red velvet layer.
- Dollop the remaining red velvet batter on top and swirl gently with a knife or skewer.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until center is just set. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Use a warm, clean knife for clean slices.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture and richness.
- Let bars cool fully before cutting for neat layers.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg