Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Introduction
These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the vibrant color and subtle tang of red velvet. Topped with a smooth, creamy frosting, they make a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups (155g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel)
- ¼ tsp salt
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal later.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, stir the melted butter and granulated sugar until fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the mixture is uniformly red.
- Step 4: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Step 5: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Step 6: While the brownies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to finish the frosting.
- Step 7: Once the brownies are cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies from the pan, slice, and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, use full-fat cream cheese and butter in the frosting.
- If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar by ¼ cup.
- Try adding a handful of white chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful twist.
- For natural color, consider using beet juice or powder instead of artificial red food coloring.
Storage
Store these brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let them come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze frosted brownies by wrapping them tightly, then thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different pan size?
An 8×8-inch pan works best for the baking time and texture, but you can use a 9×9-inch pan. If you do, reduce the baking time slightly and check for doneness earlier.
What if I don’t have red food coloring?
You can omit the food coloring; the brownies will still taste delicious, though they won’t have the traditional red velvet hue. Alternatively, beet juice or beet powder can provide natural color.
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Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies (approximately 4×4 servings) 1x
Description
Delight in these rich and moist Red Velvet Brownies topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. A perfect blend of classic red velvet flavor with the indulgent texture of fudgy brownies, ideal for dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Brownie Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups (155g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel)
- ¼ tsp salt
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal of the brownies later.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until well incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the mixture is uniform and vibrant red.
- Create the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined to avoid overmixing and ensure tender brownies.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Frosting: While the brownies cool, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract to finish.
- Frost and Serve: Once cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the brownies. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift them from the pan, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender and fudgy.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the cream cheese frosting.
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant color without altering batter consistency.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep frosting fresh.
- Bring refrigerated brownies to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Frosting, Dessert, Fudgy Brownies, Red Velvet Dessert, Easy Brownie Recipe
