Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting combine the rich, tender texture of classic brownies with the vibrant color and slight tang of red velvet. Topped with a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting, they make a perfect indulgent dessert for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies (about 2-inch squares) 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 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 to easily lift the brownies out later.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir the melted unsalted butter with granulated sugar until fully incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the mixture is evenly red and smooth.
- Create the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Mix just until combined to keep the brownies tender and moist, avoiding overmixing.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Frosting: While brownies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract to finish the frosting.
- Frost and Serve: Once cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the brownies. Lift the brownies out using the parchment paper overhang and slice into squares. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to ensure a tender brownie texture.
- Use gel or liquid red food coloring depending on preference for intensity of color.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Store frosted brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Bring refrigerated brownies back to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
Keywords: red velvet brownies, cream cheese frosting, dessert recipe, chocolate brownies, baked brownies, holiday dessert
