Description
Delight in these luscious Red Velvet Brownies topped with a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting. Combining the classic flavors of red velvet cake with the rich, fudgy texture of brownies, this recipe is perfect for dessert lovers looking for a visually stunning and indulgent treat. Baked to perfection and finished with a tangy frosting, these brownies are sure to impress at any gathering or cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- 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 a bit of 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 this dry mix for later.
- 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 a uniform vibrant red.
- Create the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula to combine. Take care not to overmix to maintain a tender brownie texture.
- 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 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in 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 the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a mixing 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 browned and cooled to room temperature, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan, then slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before making the frosting to avoid lumps.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender and fudgy.
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant color without thinning the batter.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: red velvet brownies, cream cheese frosting, chocolate brownies, dessert recipe, homemade brownies
