Red Velvet Brownies
These Red Velvet Brownies are the perfect marriage of classic red velvet cake and fudgy brownies. Rich, chewy, and with a vibrant red hue, these brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Topped with a swirl of cream cheese frosting, they’re a showstopper for any occasion—from birthdays to holidays—or just a simple dessert for any red velvet lover!
The first time I made these Red Velvet Brownies, it was a surprise hit at a family gathering. My husband, who is a huge fan of red velvet anything, couldn’t stop raving about how these brownies combined his two favorite things—decadent chocolate flavor and that signature red velvet tang. Now, they’ve become a staple in our home, and every time I bake them, the whole family eagerly gathers around, waiting for that first warm bite!
Why You’ll Love Red Velvet Brownies
•Unique Flavor Combo: The richness of brownies meets the slight tang and bright color of red velvet for a perfect dessert.
•Perfect for Special Occasions: These eye-catching brownies are great for holidays, birthdays, or just when you want to make something extra special.
•Chewy and Fudgy Texture: With the dense, fudgy texture of a brownie and the vibrant color of red velvet cake, these are irresistible.
•Cream Cheese Topping: A swirl of creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting perfectly balances the sweetness.
Ingredients Notes for Red Velvet Brownies
•Cocoa Powder: Gives the brownies their classic chocolate undertone, just enough without overpowering the red velvet flavor.
•Red Food Coloring: Key to getting that rich red color—gel food coloring works best for a vibrant hue.
•Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast that elevates the richness of the brownies.
•Butter: Provides moisture and contributes to the chewy texture of the brownies.
Recipe Steps for Red Velvet Brownies
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
1.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
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2.In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup of butter. Stir in 1 cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
3.Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, whisking until well combined.
4.Stir in 2 tablespoons of red food coloring and 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder until the batter is smooth.
5.Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 3/4 cup of flour, mixing just until combined—don’t overmix.
6.Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Swirl
7.In a separate bowl, beat 4 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 egg yolk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
8.Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top of the brownie batter. Use a knife to swirl the cream cheese into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Step 4: Bake and Cool
9.Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs.
10.Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang.
Storage Options
•Refrigerator: Store these brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
•Freezer: You can freeze the brownies (without the cream cheese swirl) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
•Extra Chocolatey: Add 1/4 cup of chocolate chips to the brownie batter for an extra burst of chocolate.
•Nutty Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
•Vegan Option: Use a vegan cream cheese substitute and flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) to make the brownies vegan-friendly.
Red Velvet Brownies
Ingredients
- For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring or to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk to reach desired consistency
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownies:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour into Pan: Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the Brownies:
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Cool: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes before frosting.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Mix Frosting Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Cut and Enjoy: Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Brownies—a rich and decadent treat perfect for any occasion!
