Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Introduction

Red velvet brownies are a decadent twist on the classic treat, combining rich cocoa flavors with a vibrant red hue. Topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting, these brownies are perfect for celebrations or a special dessert treat.

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cups (155g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel)
• ¼ tsp salt
• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (for the frosting)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal later.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, stir the melted butter and granulated sugar until well incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and red food coloring until the batter is uniform and vibrant red.
4. Step 4: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
5. Step 5: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
6. Step 6: While the brownies cool, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Step 7: Once the brownies have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use the parchment paper to lift the brownies from the pan, then slice into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead of natural cocoa powder.
• If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the powdered sugar in the frosting by ¼ cup.
• To make the brownies extra fudgy, slightly underbake them by a couple of minutes.
• Add a handful of white chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for added texture.

Storage

Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze the unfrosted brownies for up to 2 months; thaw and frost before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different pan size?

An 8×8-inch pan is ideal for this recipe to achieve the correct thickness, but you can use a 9×9-inch pan. Just reduce the baking time slightly and check for doneness earlier.

What can I use instead of cream cheese frosting?

You can substitute cream cheese frosting with a simple chocolate ganache or a dusting of powdered sugar for a lighter option.

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 119 reviews

Deliciously rich and moist red velvet brownies topped with a smooth and creamy homemade cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion or dessert craving.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownies

• 1 ¼ cups (155g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel)
• ¼ tsp salt

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift out the baked brownies later.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir the melted butter and granulated sugar until well blended. Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the batter is uniformly red.
4. Create the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and maintain a tender texture.
5. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
6. Make the Frosting: While brownies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to finish the frosting.
7. Frost and Serve: When brownies reach room temperature, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan, then slice into squares and serve.

Notes

• Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to ensure tender brownies.
• The red food coloring can be liquid or gel—gel tends to provide a more vibrant color.
• Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Store frosted brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.

Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Frosting, Chocolate Brownies, Red Velvet Dessert, Easy Brownies