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Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe


  • Author: Zoe
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 16 brownies (about 2 inch squares) 1x

Description

Delight in these rich and moist Red Velvet Brownies topped with a creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting. This recipe combines the classic flavors of red velvet cake in a dense, fudgy brownie form, perfect for dessert lovers looking for an indulgent treat with a vibrant twist.


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

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal of the brownies after baking.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
  3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the mixture is a uniform, vibrant red color.
  4. Create the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
  5. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
  6. Make the Frosting: While the brownies cool, beat the softened cream cheese and softened unsalted butter in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract to complete the frosting.
  7. Frost and Serve: When the brownies have cooled to room temperature, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan, slice into squares, and serve.

Notes

  • Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
  • Do not overmix the batter to ensure soft, tender brownies.
  • Cooling completely before frosting is key to prevent the frosting from melting.
  • Red food coloring can be adjusted to get your desired shade of red.
  • Store brownies in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 4 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Frosting, Dessert, Fudgy Brownies, Valentine’s Day dessert