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.
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.
Notes
For optimal freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These brownies can be frozen for up to three months as well.