Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Red Velvet Brownies are a decadent twist on the classic red velvet cake, combining the rich flavors of chocolate and vanilla with a beautiful red hue. These fudgy brownies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to birthday celebrations. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, they are sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients List
For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Timing
Preparing Red Velvet Brownies takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes for baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
- Pour Batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking for fudgy brownies.
- Cool: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Mix Frosting Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 5: Frost and Serve
- Frost Brownies: Once the brownies have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Cut and Serve: Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Brownies!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Red Velvet Brownies (per brownie, based on 16 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Sugar | 18g |
Tips for Customization
- Add Chocolate Chips: For extra indulgence, fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the brownie batter before baking.
- Nutty Variation: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Different Frosting: Try a chocolate ganache or vanilla buttercream instead of cream cheese frosting for a different twist.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store any leftover Red Velvet Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Red Velvet Brownies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of red velvet cake with the fudgy goodness of brownies. With their rich taste and beautiful appearance, they are sure to be a favorite at any gathering!
FAQs
Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but the brownies may be less fudgy.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the brownies a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Frost just before serving for the best texture.
Is it necessary to frost the brownies?
While the brownies are delicious on their own, the cream cheese frosting adds a wonderful flavor and creaminess that complements the brownies perfectly.
Print
Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Bake the Brownies
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 5: Frost and Serve
- Once the brownies have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Brownies!
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25