Red Velvet Brownies are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the rich flavor and stunning color of classic red velvet cake but craves the dense, fudgy charm of a brownie. Each bite offers a luscious texture, a vibrant scarlet hue, and a harmonious blend of subtle cocoa, creamy butter, and just a whisper of tang from a splash of vinegar. These brownies are a showstopper at gatherings, easy enough for a weekday indulgence, and dazzling enough to turn any occasion into a celebration.

Red Velvet Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of simple pantry staples can deliver something seriously special. Each ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, working together to create the signature taste, fluffiness, and color that defines Red Velvet Brownies.

Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup, melted): Adds richness and guarantees a moist, fudgy texture throughout your brownies.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Bar (2 oz, chopped): Deepens the cocoa flavor and gives the brownies an extra luxurious feel.
Granulated Sugar (1 & 1/4 cup): Sweetens the batter just right, balancing the cocoa and highlighting the red velvet notes.
Large Eggs (2): Bind everything together and contribute to the dense, chewy structure essential for brownies.
Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Adds warmth and rounds out the overall flavor profile beautifully.
White Vinegar (1 tsp): The secret ingredient that enhances the red color and brings classic red velvet tang.
Red Gel Food Coloring (1/2 tbsp): Delivers that brilliant, unmistakable red velvet shade (gel works best for vibrant results).
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (2 tbsp): Gives a gentle chocolate flavor without overpowering the classic velvet vibe.
All-Purpose Flour (1 & 1/4 cup): Creates the perfect body – not too cakey, not too dense.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances and sharpens every sweet, buttery bite.
White Chocolate Chips (1/2 cup, optional): For added pops of creamy sweetness—stirred into the batter or melted and drizzled on top.

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make removing the brownies a breeze. This little step ensures easy cleanup and keeps those Red Velvet Brownies picture-perfect every time.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Chocolate

Grab a large microwave-safe mixing bowl, add the melted butter and chopped semi-sweet chocolate, then microwave in 30-second bursts. Stir until gorgeously smooth and glossy. This duo creates that famously fudgy texture.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Next, blend in the granulated sugar. Once combined, add eggs one at a time, beating well after each (this helps achieve a shiny, crinkly top). Fold in the vanilla extract, white vinegar, and vibrant red food coloring. Watch as the mixture deepens into that classic Red Velvet Brownies hue!

Step 4: Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Sifting makes sure there are no clumps and keeps the brownies soft and tender.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, gently mixing until just combined—a light hand means dense, dreamy brownies. If you love extra decadence, fold in white chocolate chips now.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour your rich, velvety batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly to the corners. Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. Check with a toothpick: you want a few moist crumbs clinging to it (not wet batter) for that signature fudgy result.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This patience pays off, letting the brownies set up perfectly—no messy crumbles here!

Step 8: Optional White Chocolate Drizzle

If you’re feeling extra, melt some white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled brownies. Let it set, then cut into gorgeous, marbled squares for maximum wow factor.

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies

Garnishes

Top your Red Velvet Brownies with a dusting of powdered sugar, a few more white chocolate chips, or fresh berries. The contrast in colors makes every piece look bakery-worthy and adds a playful hint of extra flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair a brownie square (or two) with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a fresh fruit salad. They also go beautifully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk, creating a moment of pure comfort with every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, cut the brownies into bite-sized cubes and spear them with decorative picks for an easy dessert tray. Or, try layering brownie chunks in parfait glasses with whipped cream and berries for a show-stopping trifle-style treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any extra Red Velvet Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay moist and flavorful, especially if you keep them covered and away from direct sunlight.

Freezing

These brownies freeze beautifully! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and enjoy them within 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

If you love a warm, gooey bite, pop a brownie in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This brings out the chocolatey aroma and makes any melted chips inside wonderfully soft and melty again.

FAQs

Why do Red Velvet Brownies need vinegar?

The vinegar brings out the bright red color by reacting with cocoa powder and food coloring, plus it adds a subtle tang that’s key to authentic red velvet flavor.

Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?

Gel food coloring is more concentrated and gives a stronger color without thinning the batter, but if you only have liquid coloring, use about 1 tablespoon and expect a lighter hue.

What’s the best way to cut brownies neatly?

Let the brownies cool completely, then use a sharp knife—wiping it with a damp cloth between cuts—to achieve crisp, clean edges every time.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend (preferably one with xanthan gum) and the Red Velvet Brownies will still turn out tender and fudgy.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—when it comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached, your brownies are perfectly baked and ready to cool.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for that perfect marriage of chocolatey decadence and classic red velvet charm, these Red Velvet Brownies are sure to become a fast favorite in your kitchen. Don’t be surprised if they disappear in record time—give this recipe a try and taste what all the excitement is about!

Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 25 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in these decadent Red Velvet Brownies that are rich, fudgy, and perfect for any chocolate lover. With a vibrant red color and a hint of white chocolate, these brownies are a delightful twist on the classic red velvet cake.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your 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 fully melted.
Mix Wet Ingredients: Add sugar to the melted chocolate mixture, then beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in vanilla, vinegar, and red food coloring.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift cocoa powder, flour, and salt in a separate bowl.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet until just combined. Fold in white chocolate chips if desired.
Bake: Pour batter into the pan and bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool completely before cutting into squares. Optionally, drizzle melted white chocolate on top before slicing.

Notes

You can adjust the amount of red food coloring for a deeper or lighter red hue.
For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking.

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 brownie
Calories: 240
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Chocolate, Dessert, Brownie Recipe, Red Velvet Recipe