Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
