Red Velvet Brownies are a decadent treat that perfectly blends the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the subtle tang of red velvet cake. These aren't just your average chocolate squares; they're a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. I still remember the first time I made these for a Valentine's Day party; they vanished in minutes!
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The vibrant red hue and creamy frosting make these Red Velvet Brownies a showstopper, perfect for any occasion. It’s a dessert that truly speaks to my heart, and I'm excited to share this recipe with you.
Why You Will Love This Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
These Red Velvet Brownies are the perfect combination of comfort, ease, and irresistible flavor. I love how quickly they come together, making them ideal for lastminute cravings or when you need a crowdpleasing dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
What makes this recipe truly special is the perfect balance of cocoa, vanilla, and buttermilk, creating that iconic red velvet taste and texture. I always sneak a bite of the batter (don't tell!), as the rich, velvety flavor is just too tempting to resist. And that cream cheese frosting? Forget about it! Fudgy, chocolaty goodness topped with sweet cream cheese; a match made in brownie heaven.
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Ingredients Needed for This Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
For the Red Velvet Brownies:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1/2 cup allpurpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make This Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan. This prevents those stubborn brownies from sticking.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Beat until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Add Red Color: Mix the cocoa powder and red food coloring in a small bowl to avoid clumping. Beat the red cocoa mix into the wet ingredients until evenly combined, creating that signature redvelvet hue.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 2530 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Remember that ovens can vary, so keep an eye on them!
Cool Completely: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and makes for cleaner cuts.
Prepare Frosting: While the brownies are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Add Powedered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Frost and Serve: Once the brownies are completely cool, frost them with the cream cheese frosting. Cut into squares and serve.
How to Serve This Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
These Red Velvet Brownies are delicious on their own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your serving experience:
- Dust with Cocoa Powder: A light dusting of cocoa powder adds a touch of elegance.
- Serve with Ice Cream: Pair them with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Add Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh raspberries or strawberries to complement the redvelvet flavor.
- Serving them on a pretty plate or platter helps show off these delicious brownies.
- You can even dip half the brownie in melted chocolate.
How to Store This Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Red Velvet Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The frosting will stay fresh and the brownies will remain moist.
- Freezing: Freeze unfrosted brownies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
- Reheating: While not necessary, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds for a gooey treat.
- Shelf life at room temperature is about 1 to 2 days in an airtight container.
Tips to Make This Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
- Ingredient Swaps: You can use Greek yogurt in place of oil for a healthier version or use glutenfree flour to make them glutenfree.
- Success Tips: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth batter.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid overbaking to prevent dry brownies.
- Pro Tips: Use a highquality red food coloring for the most vibrant redvelvet color.
Helpful Notes for This Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid using too much. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to prevent lumps in the frosting. If you don’t have red food coloring, you can substitute with beetroot powder for a natural alternative.
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Variation of This Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
- Seasonal Twists: Add peppermint extract for a festive Christmas redvelvet flavor.
- Optional Versions: Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
- Creative Modifications: Drizzle with salted caramel sauce for a sweet and salty treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Red Velvet Brownies different from regular brownies?
Red Velvet Brownies incorporate cocoa powder and a touch of vinegar or buttermilk, giving them a distinctive tangy flavor and a signature red hue. They often have a cream cheese frosting, adding another layer of richness.
How do I get my Red Velvet Brownies to be fudgy?
For fudgy brownies, use a higher ratio of butter to flour and avoid overbaking. Underbaking slightly will ensure a moist, fudgy texture.
Can I make Red Velvet Brownies ahead of time?
Yes, Red Velvet Brownies can be made a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
What kind of frosting goes well with Red Velvet Brownies?
Cream cheese frosting is the classic choice, complementing the slight tang of the red velvet. However, a simple vanilla or chocolate ganache also works well.
Conclusion
I hope this Red Velvet Brownies recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine. The combination of fudgy brownies, redvelvet flavor, and creamy frosting is simply irresistible. Give these Red Velvet Brownies a try and let me know what you think in the comments below!
Red Velvet Brownies: Easy Recipe for Fudgy Bliss
Indulge in the perfect blend of fudgy brownies and the classic red velvet flavor with this easy Red Velvet Brownies recipe. Creamy frosting included!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 16 servings
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Nutrition:
Protein: 3g
Carbs: 35g
Fat: 15g
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1/2 cup allpurpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips
- **For the Cream Cheese Frosting:**
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
- 2. In a large bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Beat until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- 3. Mix cocoa powder and red food coloring in a small bowl. Beat this mix into the wet ingredients until combined.
- 4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- 5. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- 6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 2530 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- 7. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- 8. While brownies are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- 9. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth and well combined. Stir in vanilla extract.
- 10. Once brownies are completely cool, frost them with the cream cheese frosting. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Store leftovers in the refrigerator. Enjoy!