Description
Delight in these rich and moist Red Velvet Brownies topped with a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting. Combining the classic flavors of red velvet cake with the fudgy texture of brownies, this recipe is perfect for a decadent dessert or special occasion treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownies
- 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 for easy removal of 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 this dry mixture aside for later use.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir 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, blending until the batter turns a uniform, vibrant red color.
- Create the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix gently until just combined to maintain a tender and moist brownie texture, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface 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 the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Frosting: While the brownies are cooling, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Frost and Serve: Once the brownies have cooled to room temperature, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. Lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and slice into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for easier mixing and better texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender and fudgy.
- You can substitute the red food coloring with natural beet juice or powder for a natural alternative.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- To soften cream cheese quickly, microwave briefly in 5-second increments to avoid melting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Frosting, Chocolate Brownies, Red Velvet Dessert, Fudgy Brownies, Homemade Brownies
