If you’re craving a dessert that combines rich, chocolatey goodness with a vibrant pop of color and silky smooth frosting, you’re going to fall in love with this Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These brownies bring together the classic allure of red velvet cake and the fudgy texture of brownies, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that’s perfectly tangy and sweet. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is a surefire way to impress and delight anyone lucky enough to try a bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture. It’s simple, straightforward, and altogether essential to get the authentic red velvet brownie experience.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: This adds richness and moisture to the brownies for a luscious texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create that slight crisp edge.
- 2 large eggs: Binds everything together while adding structure.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring: Gives the brownies their iconic vibrant and inviting red hue.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Offers a subtle chocolate undertone that complements the cream cheese frosting beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together with the right chewiness.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: The star of the frosting, providing creaminess and tang.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Makes the frosting smooth and spreadable.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve that velvety texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and rounds out the frosting’s flavor.
How to Make Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. This step starts off your brownies with a silky smooth base of butter and sugar that will bake into decadent edges and moist centers.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Red Food Coloring
Whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and red food coloring. The eggs add structure while the vanilla and red food coloring infuse that unmistakable flavor and stunning color that make these brownies stand out.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Sift together the cocoa powder, salt, and all-purpose flour to avoid any lumps. Gently fold these into the wet mixture using a spatula just until combined. Overmixing can make the brownies tough, so take care here.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the edges are set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl until smooth. Adding powdered sugar gradually along with vanilla extract, whisk until the frosting becomes creamy and fluffy. This luscious frosting perfectly balances the fudgy richness of the brownies.
Step 7: Frost and Serve
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled brownies using an offset spatula or knife, then slice into squares. These brownies are now ready to dazzle your taste buds!
How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle some white chocolate shavings, crushed pecans, or a little cocoa powder over the frosting. It adds texture and a decorative pop that makes these brownies look bakery-worthy.
Side Dishes
Pair your red velvet brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. A handful of fresh berries can also provide a bright, refreshing contrast to the dense richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering these brownies in a dessert trifle with whipped cream and berries, or cut them into bite-size squares to serve as party finger foods. Wrapping individual pieces in parchment tied with ribbon makes a charming homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any uneaten Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Once thawed, prepare the cream cheese frosting fresh and spread it on just before serving to keep it perfectly creamy.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies warm, microwave a slice for about 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid heating too long to prevent melting the frosting completely.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of food coloring?
Absolutely! Gel food coloring is great for a vibrant color without watering down the batter, but liquid food coloring works fine too—just expect a slightly lighter shade.
Is it necessary to sift the dry ingredients?
Sifting helps avoid lumps and ensures even distribution of cocoa and flour, which can result in a better texture, but if you don’t have a sifter, just whisk them together thoroughly.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, you can enjoy this Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe without gluten. Just check that other ingredients are gluten-free.
How thick should the cream cheese frosting be?
Your frosting should be thick enough to spread easily without running, creamy, and fluffy. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar; if too stiff, add a tiny dash of milk or cream.
What’s the best way to cut brownies neatly?
Use a sharp knife wiped clean after each cut, and for even neater edges, chill the brownies slightly before slicing to reduce crumbling.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting and joyful about making and sharing this Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. The combination of moist, velvety brownies and smooth, tangy frosting is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion. So roll up your sleeves, whip up a batch, and get ready to spread some serious happiness, one delicious bite at a time!
Print
Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, moist texture of classic brownies with the distinct flavor and vibrant color of red velvet. Topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, they make a perfect dessert for any occasion. Enjoy a delightful twist on traditional brownies that are easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to ensure the brownies do not stick and are easy to remove after baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is well combined and slightly glossy.
- Add Eggs and Flavoring: Incorporate the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring into the butter and sugar mixture. Whisk everything together until the batter is smooth and uniformly colored.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the cocoa powder, salt, and all-purpose flour into the wet ingredients. Gently fold the mixture using a spatula until just combined, taking care not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth out the surface evenly. Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool Brownies: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely on a cooling rack before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Mix Frosting Ingredients: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and well combined.
- Frost the Brownies: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled brownies, covering the top thoroughly.
- Serve: Slice the frosted brownies into squares and serve to enjoy a rich, moist dessert with a tangy topping.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter after adding the flour to keep the brownies tender.
- The toothpick test ensures the brownies are baked perfectly; some moist crumbs are ideal for fudgy texture.
- Let the brownies cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- You can substitute red food coloring with natural alternatives like beet juice for a healthier option.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh.
