Introduction

These red velvet brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the vibrant flavor and color of red velvet. Topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, they make a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

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
4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
½ tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal of the brownies later.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, stir the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the batter is evenly red.
Step 4: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
Step 5: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely in the pan.
Step 6: For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 7: Once brownies are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use the parchment paper to lift the brownies from the pan, then slice into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

For an extra chocolatey twist, add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar by ¼ cup.
Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red without thinning the batter.
Ensure the brownies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.

Storage

Store the frosted brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze unfrosted brownies for up to 3 months and frost them after thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of unsweetened?

Yes, but make sure it is unsweetened cocoa powder for the best flavor balance. Sweetened or Dutch-processed cocoa may alter the taste and texture.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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4.5 from 118 reviews

Delight in these rich and moist Red Velvet Brownies topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. This recipe combines the deep cocoa flavor of classic brownies with the vibrant color and subtle tang of red velvet, finished with a creamy, sweet frosting that complements every bite. Perfect for dessert lovers looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing treat.

Author: Ella
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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 to easily lift out 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 addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the batter has a uniform, vibrant red color.
Create the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the texture tender.
Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
Make the Frosting: While the brownies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter 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.
Frost and Serve: Once the brownies have cooled to room temperature, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan, slice into squares, and serve.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to ensure a tender and moist brownie texture.
Use gel or liquid red food coloring for vibrant color, adjusting quantity if needed for desired shade.
Ensure brownies are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Bring brownies to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.

Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Frosting, Brownie Recipe, Dessert, Baking, Chocolate Dessert, Easy Brownies