If you’re looking for a show-stopping, utterly irresistible dessert, the Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine the rich, velvety taste of classic red velvet cake condensed into a dense, fudgy bar, topped with a cloud of tangy, sweet cream cheese frosting. This treat is everything you love about red velvet, but with the easy, hand-held convenience of a brownie. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to add a little wow to your weeknight, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is that it uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a truly magical dessert. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect chewy texture, vibrant color, and luscious flavor.
- Unsalted Butter (melted): Gives the brownies their rich, moist crumb and helps bind everything together.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the brownies and adds a touch of chewiness to the base.
- Large Eggs: Provide structure and ensure the brownies stay soft and tender.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and brings out the chocolate notes.
- Red Food Coloring: Delivers that signature bold red hue that makes red velvet so special.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Offers a subtle chocolate flavor without overpowering the classic red velvet taste.
- All-Purpose Flour: Forms the backbone of the brownies, giving them body without making them cakey.
- Salt: Balances out the sweetness and intensifies all the other flavors.
- White Vinegar: Reacts with the cocoa and food coloring for that authentic red velvet tang and texture.
- Cream Cheese (softened): The star of the frosting, it brings tanginess and creamy richness to the topping.
- Unsalted Butter (softened): Blends with the cream cheese for a silky, spreadable frosting.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting and creates that classic, fluffy finish.
- Vanilla Extract (for frosting): Adds warmth and depth to the creamy topping.
How to Make Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Take an 8×8-inch baking pan and either line it with parchment paper for easy lifting or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This simple step makes all the difference when it’s time to slice and serve your Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes glossy and smooth. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing well until everything is fully combined and vibrantly red.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Stir in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and white vinegar. Mix gently until just combined; be careful not to overwork the batter, as this keeps your brownies fudgy rather than cakey. The batter should be thick and evenly colored.
Step 4: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan—this is essential for that perfect, dense texture in the Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the brownies cool, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and lump-free. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and irresistible. Don’t be shy—give it a taste!
Step 6: Frost and Chill
Once the brownies are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. For clean slices and a beautiful finish, chill the pan in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to let the frosting set before cutting into squares. Your Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is now ready for its grand debut!
How to Serve Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To make these brownies even more eye-catching, sprinkle a few white chocolate chips, a dusting of cocoa powder, or some festive sprinkles over the frosting. A handful of fresh berries or a pretty swirl of extra cream cheese frosting can also add a pop of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra-indulgent dessert. A hot cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk are classic companions—perfect for balancing the sweetness of the Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the brownies into hearts or festive shapes for special occasions, or serve them stacked high on a pretty dessert platter for a party. You can even turn them into brownie sundaes by layering pieces with ice cream and fresh berries in parfait glasses—guaranteed to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These brownies store beautifully! Simply place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate—they’ll stay moist and delicious for up to five days. For the best texture, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.
Freezing
If you want to get ahead, you can freeze the brownies (with or without frosting). Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
For that fresh-baked taste, pop a brownie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds after thawing or removing from the fridge. The frosting will soften and the brownie will regain its fudgy, decadent texture, just like when you first made the Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use a different size pan for this recipe?
Yes, but keep in mind that using a larger pan will result in thinner brownies and may shorten the baking time. For taller, fudgier brownies, stick with the recommended 8×8-inch pan.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend and enjoy a gluten-free version of the Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.
What can I substitute for red food coloring?
If you prefer to avoid artificial food coloring, try using beet powder or a natural red food dye. The color may be a bit more subtle, but you’ll still get that lovely red velvet appeal.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The best way is to insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter), they’re ready! Overbaking will dry them out, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cream cheese frosting up to two days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then give it a good stir before spreading it over your cooled brownies.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one dessert that truly delivers both beauty and flavor, it’s this Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Whether you’re sharing with friends, family, or treating yourself to something special, these brownies are guaranteed to bring a little extra joy to any day. Give them a try—you might just discover your new favorite sweet indulgence!
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Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 43 minutes (plus cooling)
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these Decadent Red Velvet Brownies topped with creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. This luscious treat combines the rich flavors of classic red velvet with the fudgy texture of brownies, perfect for festive occasions or any time you crave a delightful dessert.
Ingredients
Red Velvet Brownies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the brownies from sticking.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Then add the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing thoroughly until the batter is uniform in color and texture.
- Add dry ingredients: Gently stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and white vinegar. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
- Bake the brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 28 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack completely before frosting to ensure the frosting doesn’t melt.
- Prepare the frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fluffy and well combined.
- Frost the brownies: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Place the frosted brownies in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the frosting to set.
- Serve: Slice into 16 squares and enjoy! For the best texture, let the chilled brownies sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added richness and texture, incorporate white chocolate chips into the brownie batter before baking.
- Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- Allow brownies to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
