Description
Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting combine the rich, deep red hue and subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet with the dense, fudgy texture of brownies. Topped with a smooth and tangy cream cheese frosting, these brownies offer a delightful balance of indulgence and brightness, perfect for celebrations or a special treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups (155g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel)
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 to easily lift out the brownies after baking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside for later use.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the mixture is evenly vibrant red.
- Create the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, gently mixing until just combined to maintain a tender texture. Avoid overmixing.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Frosting: While the brownies cool, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a bowl until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in 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, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender and fudgy.
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red without adding extra liquid.
- Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
- Leftover brownies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Allow refrigerated brownies to come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: red velvet brownies, cream cheese frosting, dessert, baked brownies, chocolate dessert, festive brownies, easy brownie recipe
