Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Introduction

These red velvet brownies combine the rich, tender texture of classic brownies with the vibrant color and subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet. Topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting, they make a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

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

1. 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 later.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, stir the melted 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 uniformly red.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
5. 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 the brownies cool completely in the pan.
6. Step 6: While the brownies cool, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract to finish the frosting.
7. Step 7: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies from the pan, slice into squares, and serve.

Tips & Variations

• For a more intense red color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid to avoid thinning the batter.
• To add texture, fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans before baking.
• If you prefer a sweeter frosting, add an extra ¼ cup of powdered sugar.

Storage

Store the frosted brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, let them come to room temperature for best flavor and texture. You can also freeze unfrosted brownies for up to 2 months and frost after thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I omit the red food coloring?

Yes, but the brownies will look more like traditional chocolate brownies rather than red velvet. The food coloring is key to achieving the classic red velvet appearance.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the frosting?

Low-fat cream cheese can be used, but the frosting may be less creamy and slightly tangier. Full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor.

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 115 reviews

Indulge in these rich and moist Red Velvet Brownies topped with a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting. Combining the classic deep red color and subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet with the fudgy texture of brownies, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave a deliciously decadent treat.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies (about 2-inch squares) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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 Ingredients

• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. 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 for easy removal of the brownies later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until well mixed. Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until you achieve a uniform, vibrant red batter.
4. Create the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to ensure tender brownies.
5. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the oven 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.
6. Make the Frosting: While the brownies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to finish your frosting.
7. 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 out of the pan, then slice into squares and serve.

Notes

• Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting the cream cheese frosting.
• Red food coloring quantity can be adjusted based on desired color intensity.
• The brownies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For easier slicing, chill the frosted brownies in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cutting.

Keywords: red velvet brownies, cream cheese frosting, homemade brownies, red velvet dessert, chocolate dessert, holiday brownies