Description
Delight in these rich and tender Red Velvet Brownies topped with a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting. This easy-to-make dessert combines the deep cocoa flavor with the signature red color and a luscious creamy topping, perfect for any occasion or a special treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownies
- 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
- 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 aside.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until well incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the batter is a uniform, vibrant red.
- Create the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Frosting: While the brownies cool, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to finish.
- Frost and Serve: Once the brownies are completely cool, 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 cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- You can substitute red food coloring with beet juice or powder for a natural red color.
- Store the brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy frosting texture.
- For a thicker frosting layer, double the frosting ingredients accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: red velvet brownies, cream cheese frosting, chocolate brownies, easy brownies, dessert recipe, holiday treats
