Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting combine the rich, moist texture of classic brownies with the vibrant color and subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet, topped with a smooth and creamy vanilla-infused cream cheese frosting. Perfectly balanced sweetness and texture make this dessert a delightful treat for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies (4x4 squares) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups (155g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel)
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 a bit of overhang to easily lift the brownies out 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 unsalted butter and granulated sugar until well incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the batter is uniform and vibrant red.
- Create the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
- Bake the Brownies: 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. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Frosting: While the brownies cool, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Frost and Serve: Once cooled to room temperature, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the brownies. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies from the pan, slice into squares, and enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure that the cream cheese and butter for frosting are softened to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Do not overmix the batter to prevent dense brownies.
- Use gel food coloring for a more intense red color.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Frosting, Red Velvet Dessert, Brownie Recipe, Homemade Brownies, Cream Cheese Frosting Brownies
