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Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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4.3 from 58 reviews

Delight in the rich and moist Red Velvet Brownies, featuring a perfect balance of cocoa and tangy vinegar with a vibrant red hue. Topped with a smooth and creamy vanilla cream cheese frosting, these brownies offer a decadent twist on a classic treat, ideal for dessert lovers seeking something both colorful and indulgent.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. Melt Butter: Melt the butter in the microwave using 30-second intervals until fully liquefied, then set aside.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Incorporate Oil and Cocoa: Add the vegetable oil and cocoa powder to the batter. Whisk slowly until evenly blended, maintaining a dense texture.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. Add Vinegar: Stir in the vinegar thoroughly. This adds a signature tanginess and helps with the red velvet texture.
  9. Add White Chocolate Chips (Optional): If desired, fold in white chocolate chips to add a sweet creamy burst in every bite.
  10. 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.
  11. Cool the Brownies: Remove from oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting or slicing.
  12. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fully incorporated.
  13. 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.
  14. Finish Frosting: Mix in vanilla extract and beat for an additional few seconds to fully incorporate.
  15. 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.
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American