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Red Velvet Brownies
Red Velvet Brownies are a rich, chocolatey treat with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, they’re easy to make and absolutely delicious!
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Craving something sweet and irresistible? Try these fudgy Red Velvet Brownies, packed with rich chocolate flavor and a hint of tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for Christmas, Mother's Day, special occasions, or just because, these brownies will disappear in seconds. Bake them today and treat yourself to a deliciously indulgent dessert.
This recipe is easy to follow with step-by-step photos and directions. Plus, we've included pro tips and tricks to ensure your brownies turn out perfect every time. Don't miss our FAQs section, where we answer all your burning brownie questions!
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Whip up these Red Velvet Brownies in under an hour and impress everyone at your next party or potluck. These brownies stand out with their rich chocolate flavor and velvety texture, the perfect Valentine treat. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy twist that everyone will love. Treat yourself to a dessert that's both easy to make and impossible to resist!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Red Velvet Brownies recipe:
- For The Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 8-ounce block of cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ⅓ cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
- For The Brownie Layer:
- ½ cup of salted butter, melted and cooled
- ¾ cup of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup of cocoa powder, sifted
- 2½ teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 3 teaspoons of liquid red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon of white distilled vinegar
- ¾ cup of all-purpose flour
Pro Tip
Be sure you are using full-fat cream cheese, as the low-fat and non-fat varieties contain too much liquid and will alter the texture of your cream cheese swirl.
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your Red Velvet Brownies recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make these chocolate brownies uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
Add Swirls: Create a marbled effect by swirling in raspberry or caramel sauce before baking your dessert bars. These easy substitutions and additions can easily be swapped out while still maintaining the deliciousness of this baked chocolate dessert.
Substitute Chocolate Chips: Use white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for a sweeter twist in your brownies.
Substitute Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap with vanilla or peanut butter frosting for a new flavor combo.
Add Nuts: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture in your brownies.
How to Make Red Velvet Brownies
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and tips and tricks to make perfect Red Velvet Brownies. Let's get started and bake something delicious!
FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 square pan with a piece of parchment paper.
Be sure that you have enough of the parchment paper overhanging to allow you to lift the brownies out of the pan once cooled.
Pro Tip
Allow the sides of the parchment paper to hang over to easily remove the cheesecake swirl brownies once baked and cooled.
SECOND STEP: In a medium bowl using a handheld electric mixer on medium speed, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
THIRD STEP: Beat in the egg yolk just until fully incorporated. You do not want to add too much air to the cream cheese mixture. Set aside.
FOURTH STEP: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the sugar has been dissolved.
Add the eggs and whisk until the eggs are fully incorporated.
FIFTH STEP: Add the sifted cocoa powder to the butter mixture and whisk until smooth.
SIXTH STEP: Whisk in the vanilla extract, liquid red food coloring, and distilled white vinegar until your red velvet brownie batter is a bright red color.
SEVENTH STEP: Add the all-purpose flour and give the batter one final whisk to incorporate all the ingredients. Do not over-mix.
EIGHTH STEP: Spread the batter into an even layer in the prepared baking pan.
NINTH STEP: Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the top of the red velvet brownie batter.
TENTH STEP: Using a butter knife or a bamboo skewer, create a swirl pattern with the cream cheese and red velvet brownie batter.
ELEVENTH STEP: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few crumbs.
Do not wait until the toothpick comes out clean, or your brownies will be over baked.
Pro Tip
Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to check your cream cheese brownies at the lower end of the recommended baking time.
TWELVTH STEP: Cool completely in the pan before removing them from the pan to slice and serve.
How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies
Red Velvet Brownies are versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual treat or a festive celebration, these brownies will impress everyone!
- For Holiday Gatherings:
Serve these brownies during Christmas or Valentine’s Day for a festive touch. Their rich red color and chocolate flavor make them a holiday favorite. Pair them with hot cocoa or peppermint bark for a cozy, festive dessert spread. - For Birthday Parties:
Kids and adults alike will love these brownies at birthday parties. They’re easy to serve and a crowd-pleaser. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or colorful sprinkles to make them extra special. - For Potlucks or Picnics:
These brownies travel well and are always a hit at potlucks or picnics. Their fudgy texture and sweet frosting make them stand out. Complement them with fresh fruit salad or lemonade for a refreshing finish.
Why You'll Love This Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Red Velvet Brownies are a cherished favorite among our readers, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them irresistible:
- A Perfect Balance of Flavors:
These brownies combine the rich, deep chocolate flavor of classic red velvet with the tangy sweetness of cream cheese frosting. The result is a decadent treat that satisfies every sweet tooth craving. - Visually Stunning and Delicious:
The vibrant red color of these brownies adds a pop of color to any dessert table, making them as visually appealing as they are tasty. Each bite delivers a moist, fudgy texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. - Comforting and Nostalgic:
For many, Red Velvet Brownies bring back memories of family gatherings and special celebrations. Their familiar taste and comforting texture make them a beloved dessert that feels like home.
Red Velvet Brownies are more than just a dessert—they’re a delightful experience that our readers love sharing with family and friends.
Recipe FAQ
What makes these Red Velvet Brownies so moist?
The combination of buttermilk and oil ensures these Red Velvet Brownies stay incredibly moist and tender.
Can I use a different type of cocoa powder?
You can use either natural or Dutch-process cocoa powder, but Dutch-process gives a richer, deeper chocolate flavor.
Why is vinegar added to the batter?
Vinegar reacts with the baking soda to create a light, fluffy texture in these Red Velvet Brownies.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with moist crumbs, they’re done.
Serving FAQ
Can I serve Red Velvet Brownies warm or cold?
You can serve Red Velvet Brownies warm for a gooey texture or cold for a firmer bite.
Are these brownies suitable for parties?
Red Velvet Brownies are perfect for parties. Their vibrant color and rich flavor make them a crowd-pleaser.
Can I cut these brownies into different shapes?
Yes, you can easily cut Red Velvet Brownies into squares, rectangles, or even heart shapes for special occasions.
How do I add extra flair when serving these brownies?
Dust the brownies with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of elegance when serving.
Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for optimal storage of your Red Velvet Brownies. From making ahead to reheating, we’ve got you covered.
- Can I prepare Red Velvet Brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the brownies ahead and store them in an airtight container for up to two days. - What's the best way to store leftover Red Velvet Brownies?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to three days. - Is it possible to freeze Red Velvet Brownies?
Yes, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. - How do I thaw and reheat frozen Red Velvet Brownies?
Thaw the brownies at room temperature for a few hours. Reheat them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to enjoy warm. - Can I reheat Red Velvet Brownies in the microwave?
Yes, reheat the brownies in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them to maintain their fudgy texture.
Red Velvet Brownies
Red Velvet Brownies are a rich, chocolatey treat with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, they’re easy to make and absolutely delicious!
Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg yolk room temperature
Brownie Layer
- ½ cup salted butter (melted and cooled)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- ¼ cup cocoa powder (sifted)
- 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 teaspoons liquid red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 baking pan with a piece of parchment paper. Be sure that you have enough of the parchment paper overhanging to allow you to lift the brownies out of the pan once cooled.
- In a medium mixing bowl using a handheld mixer on medium speed, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Beat in the egg yolk just until fully incorporated. You do not want to add too much air to the cream cheese mixture. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the sugar has been dissolved. Add the eggs and whisk until the eggs are fully incorporated.
- Add the sifted cocoa powder to the butter mixture and whisk until smooth.
- Whisk in the vanilla extract, liquid red food coloring, and distilled white vinegar until your red velvet brownie batter is a bright red color.
- Add the all-purpose flour and give the batter one final whisk to incorporate all the ingredients. Do not over-mix.
- Spread the batter into an even layer in the prepared baking pan.
- Dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the top of the red velvet brownie batter.
- Using a butter knife or a bamboo skewer, create a swirl pattern with the cream cheese and red velvet brownie batter.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few crumbs. Do not wait until the toothpick comes out clean, or your brownies will be overbaked.
- Allow the red velvet brownies to cool completely in the pan before removing them from the pan to slice and serve.
Notes
- Be sure you are using full-fat cream cheese, as the low-fat and non-fat varieties contain too much liquid and will alter the texture of your cream cheese swirl.
- Allow the sides of the parchment paper to hang over to easily remove the red velvet cheesecake swirl brownies once baked and cooled.
- Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to check your red velvet cream cheese brownies at the lower end of the recommended baking time.
Nutrition
Calories: 187kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 99mg | Potassium: 56mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 397IU | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 1mg
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