Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Introduction
These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting offer a delicious twist on classic brownies, combining rich cocoa flavor with vibrant red color and a creamy, tangy frosting. Perfect for special occasions or any time you want a decadent treat.
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 some overhang for easy removal of the brownies 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 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 a uniform, vibrant red.
- Step 4: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients with a spatula until just combined. Take care not to overmix 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 in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely in the pan.
- Step 6: To make the frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 7: Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled brownies. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies from the pan, then slice into squares and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead of natural cocoa powder.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the powdered sugar in the frosting slightly.
- Try adding white chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet contrast.
- Use gel food coloring for a more intense color without adding extra liquid.
Storage
Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze the frosted brownies for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use any type of food coloring?
Yes, both liquid and gel food coloring work well. Gel coloring tends to provide a more vibrant color without thinning the batter.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures the brownies are fudgy and not overbaked.
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Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies (8×8 inch pan, cut into 16 squares) 1x
Description
Indulge in rich and fudgy Red Velvet Brownies topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. These vibrant brownies combine the classic flavor of red velvet with the dense, moist texture of a brownie, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. The creamy frosting adds a smooth, tangy contrast to the deep cocoa notes and subtle sweetness.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 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
- 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 on the sides to easily lift out the brownies after baking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the batter is evenly colored a vibrant red.
- Create the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Frosting: While the brownies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and softened butter in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to finish the frosting.
- Frost and Serve: Once the brownies have cooled to room temperature, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies from the pan and cut into squares before serving.
Notes
- To prevent curdling when adding eggs, ensure the melted butter is not too hot before combining with eggs.
- For a more intense red color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid.
- Brownies are best enjoyed the day they are made but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Let the brownies cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Frosting, Fudgy Brownies, Dessert Recipe, Homemade Brownies
