Red Velvet Brownies

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, these Red Velvet Brownies are the perfect choice! There’s something truly magical about the rich, velvety texture and the hint of cocoa flavor that makes these brownies incredibly special. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they are sure to impress at any gathering—be it a family dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or just a cozy night in. Plus, they can easily be adapted to fit dietary needs, making them a versatile treat for everyone to enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious brownies ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The sweet flavors of red velvet and cream cheese frosting are sure to delight kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a weeknight dessert, these brownies fit right in.
• Dairy-Free Option: You can easily tweak this recipe to make it dairy-free without sacrificing taste.
• Make Ahead: These brownies stay fresh for days, making them great for meal prep or last-minute treats.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Don’t worry if you have dietary restrictions; there are easy swaps to make these Red Velvet Brownies work for you!

For the Brownies

• 3/4 cup butter, melted (regular or dairy-free)
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon liquid red food coloring (SEE NOTES)
• 1½ teaspoon white vinegar
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup + 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (SEE NOTES)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz plain cream cheese, room temperature (SEE NOTES IF DAIRY FREE)
• ¼ cup butter, softened (dairy-free or regular)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• pinch of salt
• 1½-2 cups powdered sugar (icing sugar)
• 2 Tablespoons cornstarch (ONLY IF DAIRY FREE, SEE NOTES)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on your tastes and preferences.

• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch and depth of flavor.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: Fold dark or white chocolate chips into the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
• Top with Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the frosting for a festive touch!
• Swap Out Flavors: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a different twist on flavor.

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This step ensures that your brownies cook evenly and don’t stick. A well-prepared pan is key to achieving those perfect edges!

Step 2: Mix Your Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Don’t forget the vanilla extract and red food coloring! These elements give your brownies their signature flavor and stunning color.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, salt, and flour. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Mixing well ensures there are no lumps and that everything is evenly incorporated. The batter should be thick and luscious!

Step 4: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them—overbaking can lead to dry brownies!

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your brownies cool down, prepare the frosting by beating together softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add in vanilla extract, salt, powdered sugar, and cornstarch if using. Blend until smooth and fluffy—this will be the crowning glory of your brownies!

Step 6: Frost Your Brownies

Once completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over your brownies. Cut them into squares and serve! Enjoy every delicious bite—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Brownies

Making the perfect red velvet brownies is easier than you think! Here are some expert tips to ensure your brownies turn out fabulously every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your eggs and cream cheese to come to room temperature ensures they blend smoothly, creating a velvety texture in your brownies.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps maintain that chewy brownie texture. Overmixing can lead to a tough final product.
• Check for doneness carefully: Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. This ensures they stay fudgy.
• Let them cool before frosting: Allowing your brownies to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting prevents it from melting and sliding off, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
• Experiment with food coloring: If you want an extra pop of color, feel free to adjust the amount of red food coloring based on your preference for vibrancy!

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies

These luscious red velvet brownies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them at home. Here are some delightful ways to present this treat.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and airy contrast that complements the dense brownie.
• Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top to enhance the chocolate flavor and create an elegant touch.
• Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries not only add a pop of color but also a tangy freshness that balances the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully against warm brownies, providing a comforting contrast in temperature and flavor.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and can help cut through the richness of the brownies.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving these brownies alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a cozy dessert experience, enhancing the flavors of both.
• Nut Mix: A small bowl of mixed nuts provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soft chewiness of the brownies, making for a satisfying snack combination.

Enjoy your baking adventure with these delicious red velvet brownies! They’re sure to be loved by all who try them.

Make Ahead and Storage

These chewy red velvet brownies are perfect for meal prep! Not only do they satisfy your sweet tooth, but they also store well for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow brownies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut brownies into squares before freezing for easy serving.
• Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Let frozen brownies thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a warm treat, microwave individual brownies on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making red velvet brownies!

Can I make Red Velvet Brownies dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply use dairy-free butter and substitute the cream cheese frosting with a dairy-free alternative. Check the notes in the recipe for specific recommendations.

What makes Red Velvet Brownies different from regular brownies?

Red velvet brownies have a unique flavor profile thanks to the addition of cocoa powder and red food coloring. They’re also combined with a luscious cream cheese frosting that adds richness and tanginess compared to traditional brownies.

How do I know when my Red Velvet Brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter), they’re done! Keep in mind that they will continue to set as they cool.

Final Thoughts

These Red Velvet Brownies are not just a dessert; they’re a delightful experience that brings joy with every bite. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do, and I can’t wait for you to share these delicious treats with your friends and family! Happy baking, and remember, there’s always room for more sweetness in life!