Why You’ll Love Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Red velvet brownies offer the perfect balance between chocolatey richness and subtle tanginess. The addition of cream cheese frosting adds a luscious, creamy finish that complements the dense brownie base. This recipe is simple to prepare, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and delivers bakery-style results at home. The texture stays moist and chewy, and the striking red color makes these brownies ideal for special occasions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the brownies:
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
light brown sugar
large eggs
egg yolk
vanilla extract
vegetable oil
unsweetened cocoa powder
all-purpose flour
cornstarch
salt
white vinegar
red food coloring
white chocolate chips (optional)
For the cream cheese frosting:
cream cheese, softened
unsalted butter, softened
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
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Melt the butter in a large bowl and whisk in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
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Add the eggs and egg yolk, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Mix in the vegetable oil and cocoa powder until fully incorporated.
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Stir in the red food coloring and vinegar until the batter turns a deep red shade.
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Gently fold in the flour, cornstarch, and salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Fold in white chocolate chips if using.
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
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Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
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Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
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For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy.
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Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Slice into squares and serve.
Servings and timing
Servings: 16 brownies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: Approximately 40 minutes
Variations
Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Swirl in melted chocolate or chocolate hazelnut spread before baking for a marbled effect.
Use dark chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer flavor.
Substitute a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Top with red velvet crumbs for decorative presentation.
Storage/Reheating
Store frosted brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Unfrosted brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To freeze, wrap unfrosted brownies tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting or serving.
FAQs
What makes red velvet brownies different from regular brownies?
Red velvet brownies contain cocoa powder, vinegar, and red food coloring, giving them a slight tang and distinctive color compared to traditional brownies.
Can I skip the food coloring?
Yes, but the brownies will not have the signature red appearance. The flavor will remain similar.
Why is vinegar used in red velvet recipes?
Vinegar enhances the red color and reacts with other ingredients to create a tender texture.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, they can be baked and frosted a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.
Do I need to refrigerate cream cheese frosting?
Yes, because it contains dairy, the brownies should be refrigerated once frosted.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting the baking time slightly as needed.
How do I get clean slices when cutting brownies?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat squares.
Can I make these without eggs?
You can experiment with egg substitutes such as flax eggs, though the texture may vary slightly.
Why are my brownies dry?
Overbaking is the most common cause. Remove them from the oven as soon as a toothpick shows moist crumbs.
Conclusion
Red velvet brownies with cream cheese frosting are a stunning and delicious twist on a classic dessert. Their rich, fudgy texture paired with tangy frosting creates a perfect balance of flavors. Easy to prepare and visually impressive, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for celebrations and everyday indulgence alike.
Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Fudgy and rich red velvet brownies with a hint of cocoa and a vibrant red color, topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ¼ cups (160g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.
- Stir in the cocoa powder until incorporated.
- Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Stir in the vinegar.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- For the frosting, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Do not overbake to maintain a fudgy texture.
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red color.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Brownies can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
