Description

Indulge in the rich and festive Vampire Bite Red Velvet Brownies, featuring a luscious red velvet base studded with dark chocolate chips and topped with a creamy, dreamy cream cheese frosting swirled with additional chocolate. Perfect for Halloween or any special occasion, these brownies blend classic flavors with a fun twist that’s both moist and decadent.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Batter

1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, melted
2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon red food coloring
2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (50 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (175 g) dark chocolate chips

Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

Chocolate Ganache Drizzle

1/2 cup (90 g) dark chocolate chips
2 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and cocoa flavor.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the melted butter with granulated sugar until well combined. Then add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring to achieve that vibrant red velvet color.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender. Fold in the dark chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter.
Bake the Brownies: Pour the prepared batter into the lined or greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting onto warm brownies.
Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract. Add milk tablespoon by tablespoon to reach your desired creamy consistency.
Frost the Brownies: Once cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the brownies.
Make Chocolate Ganache: Heat the heavy cream gently until warm but not boiling. Pour over dark chocolate chips in a small bowl and let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Drizzle the ganache over the cream cheese frosting for a decadent finish.
Serve: Slice the brownies into squares and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

Using room temperature ingredients for frosting ensures a smooth, lump-free texture.
Adjust the amount of red food coloring according to desired intensity of color.
Do not overbake the brownies; a slight fudgy texture is ideal.
For easier cutting, chill brownies after frosting for about 30 minutes.
These brownies can be brought to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Substitute dairy-free alternatives for cream cheese, butter, and cream for a vegan version.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Red velvet brownies, cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, Halloween dessert, chocolate chips, festive brownies