Devilishly Halloween Brimstone Brownies – Spooky & Delicious Party Treat

Every Halloween, I love making desserts that look a little spooky but taste downright irresistible. A few years back, I stumbled upon the idea of Brimstone Brownies rich, fudgy brownies with a fiery red cheesecake swirl that looks like molten lava trapped inside. The first time I baked them, my kids gasped when I cut into the pan. The red swirls peeking through the dark chocolate looked devilishly dramatic, and since then, Halloween Brimstone Brownies have become a must-bake tradition in my kitchen. They’re decadent, eye-catching, and absolutely perfect for a Halloween party spread.

What Are Halloween Brimstone Brownies?

Halloween Brimstone Brownies are layered treats that combine a fudgy brownie base with a vivid red cheesecake layer swirled on top. The name comes from the eerie, fiery look created by the bright red against deep chocolate. They’re designed to be both spooky and indulgent, making them a standout dessert for Halloween gatherings. Unlike standard brownies, these use food coloring to achieve a dramatic effect. The cheesecake layer adds tanginess, which balances the richness of the brownie base.

Ingredients & Variations

This dessert is simple yet flexible, allowing you to tailor it to dietary needs or taste preferences.

This recipe works with both boxed brownie mix and from-scratch versions. Gluten-free flour blends and dairy-free swaps keep it inclusive without sacrificing taste.

Equipment & Tips for Layering

You don’t need fancy tools, but preparation matters. A standard 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly. Line it with parchment to prevent sticking and ensure clean cuts. Use two mixing bowls one for brownie batter, one for the cheesecake swirl. When layering, pour brownie batter first, then add dollops of cheesecake mixture. Use a butter knife to swirl, but avoid overmixing or the colors will blur. For bold red swirls, opt for gel coloring rather than liquid food dye. Chill brownies before slicing for the cleanest presentation.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Pan

Line a baking dish with parchment, leaving overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Base

Prepare boxed brownie mix or homemade batter according to instructions. Spread evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 3: Prepare Cheesecake Layer

Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla, and red food coloring until smooth and vibrant.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl

Drop spoonfuls of cheesecake mixture on top of brownie batter. Use a knife to create fiery swirls.

Step 5: Bake

Bake at 350°F for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly fudgy. Cool completely before cutting.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Lift brownies from pan, slice with a sharp knife, and wipe blade between cuts for neat edges.

Flavor Enhancements & Add-Ons

You can elevate Halloween Brimstone Brownies with simple add-ins:

• Add a teaspoon of espresso powder for deeper chocolate flavor
• Sprinkle with crushed Oreos or Halloween sprinkles before baking
• Swirl in black food coloring with the red for a molten lava effect
• Top cooled brownies with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate ganache

For grown-up gatherings, serve with a scoop of spiced pumpkin ice cream or cinnamon whipped cream.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips

These brownies store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead dessert. Prepare and bake up to two days before serving. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5. For freezing, wrap cooled brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Nutrition Information

Approximate per serving (1 square, 1/16 pan):

Conclusion

Halloween Brimstone Brownies are the ultimate spooky dessert: bold, rich, and festive. With their devil-red cheesecake swirls inside a fudgy chocolate base, they’re guaranteed to wow your guests. Easy to adapt, perfect for making ahead, and always a showstopper, these brownies deserve a spot on your Halloween dessert table. Bake them once, and they’ll become your new Halloween tradition.

For more simple and delicious recipes just like this one, be sure to follow me on Pinterest! I’m always pinning the best easy weeknight meals, and I’d love to share them with you.

Halloween Brimstone Brownies

These spooky Halloween Brimstone Brownies feature rich fudgy chocolate and fiery red cheesecake swirls, creating a molten lava look that’s perfect for parties. Dramatic, decadent, and delicious!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 16 brownie squares

Course: Appetizer, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 box brownie mix or homemade brownie batter (enough for 9×13 pan)
• 2 tablespoons water if using boxed mix
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or as directed on brownie box
• 2 large eggs or flax eggs for vegan option
• 8 oz cream cheese softened; dairy-free if needed
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar or coconut sugar
• 1 egg for cheesecake layer
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon red gel food coloring use more for deeper color; beet powder for natural alternative
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips optional; dark, white, or dairy-free

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Prepare brownie mix according to box instructions (or make homemade batter). Stir in chocolate chips if using.
3. Pour brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
4. In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla, and red food coloring until smooth and vibrant.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the red cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the cheesecake into the batter, creating a lava-like pattern. Don’t overmix.
6. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool completely in the pan, then lift out using the parchment overhang.
8. Slice into 16 squares using a sharp knife. Wipe blade between cuts for clean edges.

Notes

For bolder color, use gel food coloring. To make ahead, bake up to 2 days in advance and store in an airtight container. Freeze cooled brownies for up to 2 months. Swirl in a bit of black coloring with red for a molten effect. Top with Halloween sprinkles, whipped cream, or ganache for extra flair. For best results, chill before slicing.