Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting bring together the romantic allure of traditional red velvet cake and the gooey indulgence of brownies. These luscious treats are not only visually striking with their deep red color, but they also captivate the palate with each rich, cocoa-infused bite enhanced by a luscious layer of cream cheese frosting. Ideal for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations, this recipe offers a comforting familiarity that delights and warms the heart. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients and effortless step-by-step instructions.

Ingredients

To create these velvety brownies, gather the following ingredients:

¾ stick (85g) unsalted butter: The creamy base that adds richness.
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly without overwhelming it.
¼ cup (55g) light brown sugar: Introduces a hint of caramel flavor and moisture.
3 large eggs: Provide structure and a tender crumb.
1 egg yolk: Enhance the richness of the brownies.
1 tsp vanilla extract: A warm, aromatic flavor that complements the chocolate.
⅓ cup (72g) vegetable oil: Adds moisture and ensures fudginess.
¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder: The source of our deep chocolate flavor.
½ tsp red gel food coloring: Provides that iconic red hue.
¾ cup (90g) all-purpose flour: Essential for structure without being too dense.
1 tbsp cornstarch: Creates a soft, chewy texture.
¼ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness.
1 tbsp vinegar: Enhances the flavor and creates a delightful texture.
¾ cup white chocolate chips (optional): For an extra burst of sweetness.
4 oz (114g) cream cheese, softened: The star of our frosting, creamy and tangy.
¾ stick (85g) unsalted butter, softened: For whipped buttercream that spreads easily.
4 cups (480g) powdered sugar: Sweetness, giving a light and fluffy texture.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Complements the tanginess of cream cheese.

Cooking Time & Tips For Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

When it comes to cooking time, this recipe offers both quick and leisurely preparation options. Quick preparation involves melting the butter in the microwave and mixing everything in a straightforward manner. Taking your time with the baking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive taste. Regardless of your method, remember that measuring ingredients accurately is key to success. Always use room temperature ingredients for better emulsification of butter and cream cheese.

When baking, always keep an eye on the brownies to avoid overbaking. They should be soft and set in the middle. If you’re utilizing white chocolate chips, folding them in at the end adds a delightful surprise.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper, allowing for easy removal after baking.
Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl until creamy and completely dissolved.
Combine the melted butter with granulated and brown sugars in a large bowl, whisking until smooth and well incorporated.
Add in the eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, stirring gently until just combined for a cohesive mixture.
Incorporate the vegetable oil and cocoa powder, stirring to create a smooth, decadent batter.
Mix the red food coloring into a small portion of the batter, then fold it back into the main batter for an even distribution of color.
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt, ensuring there are no dry streaks left in the mixture.
Stir in the vinegar to add a little zing to the brownies.
If using, fold in white chocolate chips for a touch of sweetness in each bite.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined, followed by the vanilla extract for added flavor.
Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled brownies generously, then slice into squares and serve.

Serving Suggestions & Occasions

These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for various occasions. Serve them at a birthday party, holiday celebration, or casual family get-together. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an elevated dessert experience. They also make a thoughtful gift for friends and loved ones, wrapped beautifully in a box, perfect for any celebration.

Common Mistakes For Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

One of the common mistakes people make when baking these brownies is overmixing the batter. Mixing too much can lead to tough brownies. Ensure you only mix until the ingredients are just combined. Another pitfall is not properly measuring the flour; adding too much can result in dry brownies. Always measure using the spoon-and-level method for accuracy. Lastly, be cautious with baking times; every oven is different, and starting with shorter baking times will ensure that you capture that fudgy texture.

Healthier Alternatives & Variations

Consider substituting some ingredients to create a lighter version of these brownies. You can use unsweetened applesauce instead of some of the butter and oil to reduce fat. Swap out white sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option. For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. If you’re looking for flavor variations, try adding a hint of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor or even using dark chocolate chips instead of white for a rich contrast.

FAQs

Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel?
Gel food coloring is recommended as it provides a more vibrant color without adding too much liquid to the batter.
How do I store leftover brownies?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days for optimal freshness.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, these brownies freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Can I replace cream cheese with another frosting type?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, consider using whipped buttercream or chocolate ganache.
What can I do if my brownies turn out too dry?
To salvage them, try serving them warmed up with a scoop of ice cream, as the creaminess will complement the brownies.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can adjust sugar levels to your preference but be mindful that significant changes can affect texture.

Conclusion

There’s no better way to elevate your dessert game than with these delightful Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting. They’re simple to prepare, beautifully indulgent, and provide a mouthwatering twist on a classic. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating your family, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and bring the charm of red velvet bliss into your kitchen today!

Cream cheese frosted red velvet brownies on a plate

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Red Velvet Brownies combine the romantic allure of traditional red velvet cake with the gooey indulgence of brownies, topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 25

Total Time 45

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 16 squares

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

¾ stick ¾ stick (85g) unsalted butter The creamy base that adds richness.
1 cup 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar Sweetens the batter perfectly.
¼ cup ¼ cup (55g) light brown sugar Introduces a hint of caramel flavor.
3 large 3 large eggs Provide structure and tenderness.
1 egg yolk 1 egg yolk Enhances richness.
1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract Aromatic flavor that complements chocolate.
⅓ cup ⅓ cup (72g) vegetable oil Adds moisture for fudginess.
¼ cup ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder Source of deep chocolate flavor.
½ tsp ½ tsp red gel food coloring Provides the iconic red hue.
¾ cup ¾ cup (90g) all-purpose flour Essential for structure.
1 tbsp 1 tbsp cornstarch Creates a soft, chewy texture.
¼ tsp ¼ tsp salt Balances sweetness.
1 tbsp 1 tbsp vinegar Enhances flavor and texture.
¾ cup ¾ cup white chocolate chips (optional) Adds sweetness.

Frosting Ingredients

4 oz 4 oz (114g) cream cheese, softened The star of the frosting.
¾ stick ¾ stick (85g) unsalted butter, softened For whipped buttercream.
4 cups 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar Adds sweetness for a fluffy texture.
1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract Complements the cream cheese.

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.
Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl until creamy.
Combine melted butter with the granulated and brown sugars in a large bowl, whisking until smooth.
Add eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, stirring gently until just combined.
Incorporate vegetable oil and cocoa powder, stirring to create a smooth batter.
Mix red food coloring into a small portion of the batter and fold it back into the main batter.
Gently fold in flour, cornstarch, and salt, ensuring no dry streaks remain.
Stir in vinegar and fold in white chocolate chips if using.

Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Frosting

Beat together cream cheese and softened butter until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until well combined. Stir in vanilla extract.
Spread cream cheese frosting over cooled brownies generously and slice into squares.