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

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

Fudgy, rich brownies with the classic red velvet flavor, topped with a smooth cream cheese swirl for a decadent, colorful treat!

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Course: Dessert

Kitchen: American

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 16 brownies

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ 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!