Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Deliciously rich and moist red velvet brownies topped with a smooth and creamy homemade cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion or dessert craving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
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
- 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.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
