Ingredients
Brownies
- 3/4 stick Unsalted Butter (85g)
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar (200g)
- 1/4 cup Light Brown Sugar (55g)
- 3 Large Eggs
- 1 large Egg Yolk
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1/3 cup Vegetable Oil (72g / 80ml)
- 1/4 cup Cocoa Powder (25g)
- 3/4 cup All-purpose Flour (90g)
- 1 tbsp Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Red Food Coloring
- 3/4 cup White Chocolate Chips (optional)
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz Cream Cheese (114g)
- 3/4 stick Unsalted Butter (85g)
- 4 cups Powdered Sugar (480g)
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Prepare Pan and Oven: Line a 9-inch square cake pan with parchment paper and preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C / 160°C fan-assisted) to ensure even baking.
- Melt Butter: Melt the butter in the microwave using 30-second intervals until fully liquefied, then set aside.
- Mix Sugars and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and the melted butter. Whisk thoroughly until fully combined to create the base of the batter.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract into the sugar mixture. Mix gently to avoid introducing air which would create cakey brownies.
- Incorporate Oil and Cocoa: Add the vegetable oil and cocoa powder to the batter. Whisk slowly until evenly blended, maintaining a dense texture.
- Add Red Food Coloring: Transfer a few tablespoons of batter to a small bowl, blend in the red gel food coloring until smooth and lump-free. Return this mixture back to the main batter and combine gently.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients: Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, fold in the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Continue folding until no lumps remain, careful not to overmix.
- Add Vinegar: Stir in the vinegar thoroughly. This adds a signature tanginess and helps with the red velvet texture.
- Add White Chocolate Chips (Optional): If desired, fold in white chocolate chips to add a sweet creamy burst in every bite.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until a skewer inserted comes out with moist crumbs, indicating perfect doneness.
- Cool the Brownies: Remove from oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting or slicing.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Slowly add powdered sugar while mixing at low speed. Once the sugar is blended in, increase to high speed and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Finish Frosting: Mix in vanilla extract and beat for an additional few seconds to fully incorporate.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Slice into 16 pieces and serve.
Notes
- To avoid cakey brownies, mix the batter gently and avoid incorporating excess air.
- Using vinegar is essential to achieve the classic red velvet tang and texture.
- White chocolate chips are optional but add pleasant sweetness and texture contrast.
- Ensure brownies cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use gel food coloring for vibrant color without thinning the batter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American