As I stood in the kitchen with a cheeky grin, the vibrant red batter swirled around in the mixing bowl, promising a delightful transformation. These chewy Red Velvet Brownies are more than just a treat; they bring the nostalgia of holiday baking into any season, offering a rich, chocolatey experience with a tangy cream cheese frosting that’s simply irresistible. With a quick prep time and the flexibility of a dairy-free option, these brownies are sure to impress friends and family alike without keeping you chained to the oven for hours. So, are you ready to indulge in a sweet slice of luxurious red velvet? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why Are Red Velvet Brownies So Irresistible?
Chewy Texture: Each bite delivers a soft and chewy experience, perfectly marrying the rich cocoa flavor with a tangy cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth.
Colorful Delight: The stunning red hue makes these brownies a showstopper for any gathering, bringing joy to your dessert table.
Dairy-Free Adaptability: Easily customizable with a dairy-free option, everyone can enjoy the magic of red velvet!
Quick to Prepare: You’ll have these decadent brownies ready in no time, making them the perfect solution for last-minute treats.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: With their familiar yet unique taste, these brownies are sure to impress family and friends, sparking smiles all around.
For a stunning pairing, consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and don’t forget to check out other delightful dessert options like my Chocolate Chip Cookies for more baking inspiration!
Red Velvet Brownies Ingredients
• Here are all the essential components you’ll need to create these decadent red velvet brownies.
For the Brownies
- Butter – Adds moisture and richness; can be substituted with dairy-free butter for a vegan option.
- Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; could substitute with coconut sugar for a slight flavor twist.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetness base for the brownies; no notable substitution necessary.
- Eggs – Acts as a binder and adds richness; flax eggs work well as a vegan alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; no substitutions recommended.
- Liquid Red Food Coloring – Gives the brownies their characteristic color; try gel color for a more vibrant hue.
- White Vinegar – Balances flavors and reacts with baking soda for leavening; no substitutions needed.
- Cocoa Powder – Infuses chocolate flavor; dark cocoa can create a richer profile.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; no substitutions.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can be exchanged for a gluten-free flour mix if desired.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Plain Cream Cheese – The frosting’s base, contributing creaminess; dairy-free cream cheese can be used as a substitute.
- Butter – Adds richness to the frosting; dairy-free butter can replace it for a non-dairy version.
- Vanilla Extract – Similar enhancement as in the brownies; no substitutions recommended.
- Pinch of Salt – Balances sweetness; no substitutions needed.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; icing sugar is essential, with no substitutions.
- Cornstarch – Optional for a dairy-free frosting, helps thicken when using dairy-free cream cheese.
Now you’re all set to create these mouthwatering Red Velvet Brownies! Enjoy the baking magic!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang. This will make it easier to remove the brownies later.
Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, melt 3/4 cup of butter until thoroughly liquid. Once melted, add 3/4 cup of light brown sugar and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Using a whisk, mix these ingredients until you achieve a smooth, thick paste, about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, incorporate 2 eggs into your butter-sugar mixture, whisking until well combined. Then add 1.5 teaspoons of white vinegar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of liquid red food coloring. Mix together until the batter is even in color and wonderfully vibrant.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
To the wet mixture, sift in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder, 1 cup plus 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix to keep the brownies chewy.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface. Bake in your preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes. The brownies are done when the top appears crinkly, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
Step 6: Cool the Brownies
After baking, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, lift them out by the parchment overhang and place on a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the brownies cool, make your cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together 4 oz of plain cream cheese, 1/4 cup of butter, a pinch of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually sift in 1.5 to 2 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until you reach your desired frosting consistency. If using dairy-free cream cheese, add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to help thicken.
Step 8: Frost the Brownies
Once your brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top using a spatula. Make sure to cover the surface evenly for a delightful finish. Slice into squares and get ready to indulge in your chewy Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting!
Storage Tips for Red Velvet Brownies
Room Temperature: Keep leftover Red Velvet Brownies covered at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure they are entirely cool before refrigerating.
Freezer: Freeze individual squares wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They will stay delicious for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: If the brownies have been refrigerated, reheat them gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste!
What to Serve with Chewy Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Indulging in these luscious brownies opens up a world of delightful pairings that heighten their rich flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, a scoop of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture of the brownies, creating a decadent dessert experience.
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Fresh Berries: Bright and juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the rich cream cheese frosting.
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Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce enhances the chocolatey goodness of the brownies, making each bite even more indulgent.
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Espresso or Coffee: The bitterness of a freshly brewed espresso or a rich coffee accentuates the sweet elements, adding depth to your dessert.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream serves as a dreamy addition, softening the rich notes while adding a touch of elegance to your presentation.
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Cream Cheese Glaze: For an even richer treat, drizzle a thin layer of cream cheese glaze atop your brownies for an extra pop of flavor.
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Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch, offering a contrast to the soft, fudgy brownies.
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Mint Tea: An invigorating cup of mint tea enhances the overall experience, providing a refreshing palate cleanser that complements the sweetness.
Let these delightful pairings elevate your brownie experience and create a memorable moment for family and friends!
Red Velvet Brownies Variations & Substitutions
Explore these delightful twists to personalize your Red Velvet Brownies as you like!
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Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese to create a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing flavor.
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for a richer, chocolatey experience in every bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the chewy brownies.
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Exotic Spice: Infuse the batter with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor boost that gently complements the cocoa.
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Natural Color: Swap liquid red food coloring for beetroot powder, offering a stunning hue without artificial additives.
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Fruity Twist: Incorporate fresh raspberries or cherries into the brownie batter for a burst of fruity flavor and moisture.
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Zesty Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a refreshing, citrusy brightness that balances the sweet frosting.
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Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for an unexpected flavor kick that complements the sweetness.
Looking for more baking fun? Check out my Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies to satisfy any sweet tooth!
Make Ahead Options
These chewy Red Velvet Brownies are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts, allowing you to savor their rich flavor with less hassle! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dry ingredients and store them separately, then combine with the wet ingredients the next day before baking. Additionally, the cream cheese frosting can be made up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When ready to serve, frost the cooled brownies, and they will be just as delicious as if made fresh! Enjoy the time-saving benefits of having these delightful treats ready to go!
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Brownies
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Measure Precisely: Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients to ensure perfect texture. Too much flour can lead to dry brownies.
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Avoid Overbaking: Check for doneness with a toothpick. It should come out with moist crumbs for that chewy consistency.
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Heat Conductivity: Metal pans conduct heat better than glass; expect longer baking time if using glass.
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Cool Completely: Let brownies cool fully before frosting, or the icing will melt and slide off, diminishing the beautiful look.
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Frosting Flexibility: Adjust powdered sugar to reach your desired frosting consistency, particularly if using dairy-free cream cheese.
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Save for Later: Store leftover Red Velvet Brownies covered at room temperature for 3-4 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for the brownies?
You can use regular unsalted butter for a rich flavor, but I often recommend opting for dairy-free butter if you’re looking to make a vegan version. Just make sure it’s suitable for baking, as some alternatives may not perform the same.
How should I store leftover Red Velvet Brownies?
Store your leftover Red Velvet Brownies covered at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to keep them nice and chewy. If you want them to last longer, pop them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Remember, let them cool completely before refrigerating!
Can I freeze these brownies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Red Velvet Brownies, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about an hour or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked feel.
What should I do if my brownies turn out too dry?
If your brownies are dry, it could be due to overbaking or measuring too much flour. To prevent this, always check your brownies a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs—this indicates they’re perfectly chewy! For future bakes, consider weighing your flour or spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off for accuracy.
Can I make these brownies without eggs?
Yes! You can easily make these brownies egg-free. A great substitute is using flax eggs. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes gel-like, then mix it into your batter as you would with the eggs.
What are some alternatives for the cream cheese frosting?
If you want to make a dairy-free or vegan frosting, use dairy-free cream cheese. Just be mindful of the consistency. I suggest adding 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch to help thicken the frosting, as the texture may be a bit different. Blend until smooth for that creamy finish!
These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs should help you whip up these delightful treats with confidence!
Indulge in Red Velvet Brownies with Creamy Frosting Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt 3/4 cup of butter in a mixing bowl. Add 3/4 cup of light brown sugar and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until smooth.
- Incorporate 2 eggs, 1.5 teaspoons of white vinegar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of liquid red food coloring. Mix until even.
- Sift in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder, 1 cup plus 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Fold until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 30 to 40 minutes until the top is crinkly and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool the brownies in the pan for 15 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment and cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the frosting, beat together 4 oz of cream cheese, 1/4 cup of butter, a pinch of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla until smooth. Gradually sift in 1.5 to 2 cups of powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled brownies evenly. Cut into squares and enjoy!
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