If you’re someone who dreams about moist, fudgy brownies with that classic hint of cocoa and an eye-catching bright red hue, these Red Velvet Brownies are about to become your new baking crush. Imagine the beloved flavor of red velvet cake, but with the chewy, decadent texture brownie lovers crave! Each square is a little jewel of deep, chocolatey flavor balanced by creamy white chocolate—and the best part is, they’re just as impressive to look at as they are to eat. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or hoarding the batch for yourself (no judgment!), this recipe captures everything you want in a Red Velvet Brownie.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Red Velvet Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Red Velvet Brownies is how each straightforward ingredient does heavy lifting behind the scenes—richness, color, structure, or that extra dash of indulgence. Gather these essentials for a treat that’s anything but ordinary.

Unsalted butter (3/4 cup, melted): Gives richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture to the brownies.
Semi-sweet chocolate bar (2 oz, chopped): Deepens the cocoa flavor and adds fudgy goodness.
Granulated sugar (1 & 1/4 cup): Sweetens and helps create those irresistible crackly brownie tops.
Large eggs (2): Bind everything together while keeping the brownies tender.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor, making every bite aromatic and comforting.
White vinegar (1 teaspoon): Enhances the red hue while balancing the sweetness.
Red gel food coloring (1/2 tablespoon): Provides that signature dramatic color you expect in Red Velvet Brownies.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle chocolate backdrop without overpowering the red velvet essence.
All-purpose flour (1 & 1/4 cup): Creates structure, giving each brownie just the right amount of bite.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Lifts every flavor and keeps things from getting too sweet.
White chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): Adds creamy pockets of sweetness or a beautiful drizzle on top—totally decadent!

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper—let the paper hang over the sides for easy brownie removal later. This simple step is not only about convenience, it also ensures your Red Velvet Brownies have perfectly crisp, clean edges.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

Grab a large microwave-safe mixing bowl. Add the melted butter and chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each session, until the chocolate is silky and completely melted into the butter. This forms the deep, chocolaty base of your brownies and sets the tone for their dense, fudgy texture.

Step 3: Add Sugar, Eggs, and Flavorings

To the buttery chocolate mixture, stir in the granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition for a glossy, unified batter. Now, mix in the vanilla extract, white vinegar, and that bold red gel food coloring—watch the classic Red Velvet Brownie color swirl to life!

Step 4: Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Sifting ensures there are no sneaky lumps, setting you up for evenly baked, tender brownies every time.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, gently stirring until just combined. Over-mixing can make brownies dense, so stop as soon as you don’t see streaks of flour. If you’re using white chocolate chips, fold them in now for extra delight in every bite.

Step 6: Transfer to Pan and Bake

Pour the luscious red batter into your prepped pan, smoothing the top with a spatula so it bakes up evenly. Slide into the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes—you’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick stuck in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 7: Cooling, Slicing, and Finishing Touches

Let those brownies cool completely in the pan—patience is hard, but it’s worth it! If you’re feeling extra, melt some white chocolate and drizzle it over the top once the brownies are cool. When everything’s set, lift them out using the parchment, slice into perfect squares, and get ready for lots of oohs and ahhs.

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies

Garnishes

To dress up your Red Velvet Brownies, try a classic white chocolate drizzle, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a handful of fresh berries for a pop of color and tartness. If you’re feeling playful, a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting on top brings classic red velvet vibes to every bite.

Side Dishes

These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla or cream cheese ice cream, hot coffee, or a chilled glass of milk. For an elegant dessert plate, add a few fresh raspberries or strawberries alongside—fruit brightens the rich chocolate flavors and makes everything feel a bit more festive.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special occasions, cut your Red Velvet Brownies into hearts with a cookie cutter, or layer cubes in parfait glasses with cream cheese mousse. Wrapping individual squares in wax paper or parchment with a ribbon makes for a thoughtful homemade gift that’s a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Red Velvet Brownies left over (which is rare!), keep them fresh by storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Pop a slice of bread in the container to absorb excess moisture—the brownies will stay as gooey as the day you baked them.

Freezing

Want to save some treats for later? Double-wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving, and they’ll taste just as luscious as when they were fresh out of the oven.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked taste, warm a brownie in the microwave for 10–12 seconds. This little trick brings back the gooey center and makes the aroma of Red Velvet Brownies waft through your kitchen all over again.

FAQs

Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?

While you can use liquid food coloring, gel food coloring is more concentrated and produces that deep red color without thinning the batter. If using liquid, you may need to add more, but do so gradually to avoid making the batter runny.

What’s the role of white vinegar in this recipe?

White vinegar reacts with the cocoa and baking soda in traditional red velvet recipes to enhance the color and create a subtle tang. Even though there’s no baking soda here, the vinegar still brightens the color and flavor of these brownies.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a swirl of cream cheese. Red Velvet Brownies are deliciously versatile and welcome all sorts of add-ins.

How can I tell when the brownies are done?

Look for a toothpick inserted in the center to come out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). The top should look set and slightly crackly, a signature of well-baked brownies.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13 inch pan. Keep an eye on the baking time—it may take a few extra minutes to achieve the perfect moist crumb.

Final Thoughts

Red Velvet Brownies bring together the best of both worlds: the nostalgic charm of classic cake and the indulgent chew of a brownie. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen, too. Happy baking, and don’t forget to sneak a taste as soon as they’re cool enough to handle!

Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 17 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Yield: 9 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in these decadent Red Velvet Brownies that have a rich, chocolatey flavor with a hint of tanginess. Perfect for any occasion, these brownies are a delightful twist on the classic red velvet cake.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chopped chocolate in 30-second increments, stirring until smooth.
Mix Wet Ingredients: Add sugar to the chocolate mixture, then beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift cocoa powder, flour, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Add Optional Chips: Fold in white chocolate chips if desired.
Bake: Pour batter into the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting into squares. Optionally, drizzle melted white chocolate on top.

Notes

You can customize these brownies by adding nuts or cream cheese frosting for extra richness.
For a fudgier texture, slightly underbake the brownies and let them set as they cool.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American