Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re craving something indulgent and irresistibly rich, this Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Bursting with that classic velvety red hue, a deep cocoa flavor, and topped with a luxuriously smooth cream cheese frosting, these brownies strike the perfect balance between fudgy and creamy. Whether you need a showstopper dessert for a party or just want to treat yourself on a cozy night in, these red velvet brownies are guaranteed to satisfy every chocolate lover’s heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in making your Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe truly spectacular. From the rich butter that adds creaminess to the splash of vinegar that brings out the red velvet’s signature tang, every component works together to create layers of flavor and that perfect fudgy texture.

• Unsalted Butter: Melting it slowly gives your brownies a luscious, moist base that holds everything together perfectly.
• Granulated and Light Brown Sugar: The combo adds just the right sweetness plus a hint of depth from the brown sugar’s molasses.
• Eggs and Egg Yolk: Provide structure and richness without making the bake cakey or dry.
• Vanilla Extract: Lifts the chocolate and complements the red velvet’s subtle tang beautifully.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the brownies moist and fudgy even after baking.
• Cocoa Powder: The heart of that deep chocolate flavor with no bitterness.
• All-purpose Flour: Enough to bind everything without toughening.
• Vinegar: Reacts with cocoa to intensify color and flavor, bringing that classic red velvet tang.
• Cornstarch: Adds a lovely softness to the brownie crumb.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and richness.
• Red Food Coloring: The signature vibrant pop that makes red velvet instantly recognizable (gel works best).
• White Chocolate Chips (optional): For those who want an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
• Cream Cheese: The soul of the frosting, lending a tangy creaminess that pairs flawlessly with the brownies.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it silky smooth.

How to Make Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Melt Butter

Start by lining a 9-inch square cake pan with parchment paper to ensure your brownies release easily after baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), or 160°C if you’re using a fan-assisted oven. Then, melt the butter slowly in 30-second bursts in the microwave until fully melted but not browned—this creates a creamy base for your batter.

Step 2: Mix Sugars and Butter

Combine both granulated and light brown sugar in a large mixing bowl, then whisk in the melted butter until everything is well combined. This step sets the stage for that addictive sweetness and moist texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing gently. Be careful here—whisk just enough to combine without whisking in air. Overmixing at this point would result in cakey brownies, and we want rich and fudgy!

Step 4: Add Oil and Cocoa

Next, pour in the vegetable oil followed by the cocoa powder, whisking carefully until the batter looks smooth and glossy. This lush chocolate element will shine through once baked.

Step 5: Mix in Red Food Coloring

Take a couple of tablespoons of the batter in a separate small bowl and stir in the red gel food coloring until the color is vibrant and even. Then add this vividly colored mixture back into the main batter, blending until you have a beautiful, uniform red velvet shade.

Step 6: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Switch to a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold in the flour, cornstarch, and salt. The folding technique prevents overworking the batter and keeps your brownies wonderfully tender.

Step 7: Add Vinegar and Optional Chocolate Chips

Once the flour lumps have vanished, stir in the vinegar thoroughly. This little acidic splash intensifies the red color and enhances the classic velvet flavor. If you like a touch of extra sweetness and a bit of bite, fold in white chocolate chips now; otherwise, feel free to skip this step.

Step 8: Bake Your Brownies

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to be set while the center still yields moist crumbs when tested with a skewer. Be careful not to overbake or the brownies will lose that luscious fudginess.

Step 9: Cool Completely

Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool fully in the pan. Cooling is crucial for firming up the fudge-like texture and making frosting easier to spread.

Step 10: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing slowly at first to avoid a sugar cloud explosion. Once mostly combined, beat on high speed for a few minutes until the frosting becomes light, fluffy, and spreadable. Stir in vanilla extract last.

Step 11: Frost and Enjoy

Slather that glorious cream cheese frosting over the cooled red velvet brownies evenly, then slice into squares to serve. That first bite, with the rich brownie and tangy frosting, is pure dessert heaven!

How to Serve Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation, try sprinkling some white chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder on top of the frosting. Fresh raspberries or a light drizzle of raspberry sauce add a delightful tart contrast that pairs beautifully with the creamy frosting.

Side Dishes

While these brownies are perfect on their own, serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes things to the next level. A cup of rich espresso or creamy hot chocolate also complements the deep cocoa flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, cut the brownies into bite-sized squares and skewer them with decorative picks, maybe alternating with fresh strawberries. You could also layer these brownies in a trifle dish with whipped cream and berries for an eye-catching dessert that wows your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to five days. Chilling helps the frosting stay firm but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted brownie squares individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and spread fresh cream cheese frosting before serving for that freshly made sensation.

Reheating

If you’d like your brownies warm, gently reheat a portion in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out; warm cream cheese frosting is a decadent treat!

FAQs

Can I use natural cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed for this recipe?

Yes, you can, but natural cocoa has a more acidic and intense flavor which might slightly alter the taste and color of the brownies. Dutch-processed cocoa tends to create a smoother flavor and deeper red hue in red velvet recipes.

Is there a substitute for red food coloring?

Red food coloring is key for that iconic red velvet look. If you prefer natural alternatives, beet juice or powder can be used, though they may impart a subtle earthy flavor and less intense color.

How do I prevent the brownies from becoming cakey?

Avoid overmixing once the eggs are added, as this incorporates air and creates a cakier texture. Also, the balance of oil and melted butter helps maintain a fudgy crumb rather than a dry cake.

Can I make these brownies vegan?

With some adjustments—like using flax eggs, plant-based butter and cream cheese, and a vegan powdered sugar—you can create a vegan version. Just keep in mind texture and flavor may vary slightly.

How thick should the cream cheese frosting be?

The frosting should be thick enough to hold its shape but still spreadable. If too stiff, a tiny splash of milk can loosen it; if too runny, add more powdered sugar gradually.

Final Thoughts

This Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a celebration of all the best parts of baking rolled into one unforgettable dessert. From the rich, deep red brownie base to the creamy, tangy frosting, every bite feels like a warm hug. I can’t wait for you to try it, impress your friends, and maybe sneak a piece for yourself—you absolutely deserve it!

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