Red Velvet Brownies

These chewy red velvet brownies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy night in, they feature a rich flavor profile and a luscious cream cheese frosting that elevates their appeal. What makes these brownies stand out is their versatility; you can easily make them dairy-free to accommodate various dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Brownies:
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• How to Make Red Velvet Brownies
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
• Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
• Step 4: Add Color and Flavor
• Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 6: Bake the Brownies
• Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting
• Step 8: Frost and Serve
• How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies
• With a Scoop of Ice Cream
• Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
• Topped with Fresh Berries
• On a Dessert Platter
• How to Perfect Red Velvet Brownies
• Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Brownies
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Red Velvet Brownies
• Reheating Red Velvet Brownies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make these red velvet brownies dairy-free?
• What’s the best way to add food coloring?
• How do I know when my red velvet brownies are done?
• Can I customize my red velvet brownies with mix-ins?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cocoa and vanilla creates a rich, indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: The tangy cream cheese topping perfectly balances the sweetness of the brownies, making each bite unforgettable.
• Dairy-Free Option: Easily substitute ingredients to make these red velvet brownies suitable for those with dairy allergies.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of preparation, you can have these decadent brownies baking in no time!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a potluck, these brownies are sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make your red velvet brownies perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand ensures everything runs smoothly during your baking session.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps create a smooth batter, ensuring even incorporation of ingredients.
• Rubber spatula: This tool is perfect for scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding in dry ingredients gently.

Ingredients

These chewy red velvet brownies are topped with the best cream cheese frosting! Plus, you can easily make these red velvet brownies dairy-free so they’re perfect if you have food allergies!

For the Brownies:

• 3/4 cup butter, melted (regular or dairy free)
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon liquid red food coloring (SEE NOTES)
• 1½ teaspoon white vinegar
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup + 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (SEE NOTES)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz plain cream cheese, room temperature (SEE NOTES IF DAIRY FREE)
• ¼ cup butter, softened (dairy free or regular)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• pinch of salt
• 1½-2 cups powdered sugar (icing sugar)
• 2 Tablespoons cornstarch (ONLY IF DAIRY FREE, SEE NOTES)

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure your brownies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.

Step 4: Add Color and Flavor

Stir in liquid red food coloring and white vinegar into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, salt, and all-purpose flour. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While the brownies are baking, make your frosting by combining room temperature cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla extract, salt, powdered sugar, and cornstarch (if using). Beat until smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once the brownies have cooled completely in the pan, spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Cut into squares and serve!

Enjoy your delicious red velvet brownies as an irresistible treat that everyone will love!

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies

These chewy red velvet brownies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that complements the rich flavors of the brownies.
• Cream Cheese Ice Cream: For those who love cream cheese frosting, this is a match made in heaven.
• Mint Chocolate Chip: A refreshing twist that adds a burst of flavor.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Hot Fudge Sauce: Pour warm fudge over your brownies for an indulgent treat.
• Caramel Sauce: A sweet and salty contrast that elevates the flavor profile.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Raspberries: Their tartness balances the sweetness of the brownies perfectly.
• Strawberries: Sliced strawberries add freshness and color to your plate.

On a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cheesecakes: Pairing with mini cheesecakes provides variety for your guests.
• Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: Include chocolate-covered strawberries or bananas for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Red Velvet Brownies

Achieving the perfect red velvet brownies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your brownies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter and results in even baking.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense brownies; mix until just combined.
• Check for Doneness Early: Start checking at 25 minutes; they should be set but still soft in the center.
• Cool Before Frosting: Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding cream cheese frosting to avoid melting it.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Brownies

Serving side dishes with your red velvet brownies can elevate your dessert spread. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it adds a lovely texture contrast.
2. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These provide a salty-sweet crunch that pairs wonderfully with brownies.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brightens up the plate and offers freshness.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Small bites of cheesecake complement the richness of red velvet beautifully.
5. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee balances out the sweetness of the dessert.
6. Nut Mixes: A crunchy nut medley adds texture and flavor variety alongside the soft brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding pitfalls in your red velvet brownie-making process can lead to a perfect dessert. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Using cold ingredients. Always ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Skipping the vinegar. This ingredient is essential; it helps activate the baking soda, ensuring your brownies rise properly.
• Not measuring flour accurately. Too much flour can make your brownies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for precise measurements.
• Overbaking the brownies. Keep an eye on the baking time; they should be set around the edges but slightly soft in the center for that chewy texture.
• Ignoring cooling time. Letting your brownies cool completely before frosting allows for better adherence and prevents melting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store red velvet brownies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Red Velvet Brownies

• Cut brownies into squares before freezing for easy portions.
• Wrap each square in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Red Velvet Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place brownies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making red velvet brownies.

Can I make these red velvet brownies dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute regular butter with dairy-free alternatives and use dairy-free cream cheese for frosting.

What’s the best way to add food coloring?

Adding liquid red food coloring gradually allows you to achieve your desired shade without affecting the brownie texture too much.

How do I know when my red velvet brownies are done?

Check if the edges are set and the center is slightly gooey but not liquid. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I customize my red velvet brownies with mix-ins?

Absolutely! Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even sprinkles for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

These chewy red velvet brownies topped with creamy frosting are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Their delightful color and rich taste make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with different toppings or flavors to suit your preferences!