Description
Decadent and fudgy Red Velvet Brownies topped with smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, rich in flavor, and easy to make.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar – Sweetens and enhances the chewy texture.
- 2 large eggs – Helps bind the batter and contributes to structure.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 tbsp red food coloring – Creates the classic red velvet hue.
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds a hint of chocolate flavor without overpowering the red velvet taste.
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and balances the moisture content.
- ½ tsp salt – Brings out the flavors and prevents excessive sweetness.
- ½ cup buttermilk – Adds a slight tang and keeps the brownies soft and moist.
- 1 tsp white vinegar – Reacts with baking soda to enhance the texture and color.
- ½ tsp baking soda – Helps with leavening for a balanced texture.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Creates a smooth, tangy, and creamy base.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and a silky texture.
- 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting while keeping it light.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and adds warmth.
Optional Toppings:
- Chocolate shavings – For extra indulgence and a gourmet touch.
- Sprinkles – Adds a festive look for special occasions.
- Crushed Oreos – A crunchy, fun topping that pairs well with cream cheese frosting.
- Drizzle of melted white chocolate – For an extra decorative finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, stirring until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, stirring gently.
- Pour in buttermilk and vinegar, mixing just until incorporated—do not overmix to maintain the fudgy texture.
Step 2: Bake the Brownies
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before adding frosting.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract and continue beating until light and creamy.
Step 4: Frost and Serve
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Slice into squares and garnish with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or crushed Oreos.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Let brownies cool completely before frosting.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- For extra richness, add melted chocolate to the batter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: red velvet brownies, cream cheese frosting, fudgy brownies, easy brownie recipe, homemade brownies, red velvet dessert