Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
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
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
- 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