Introduction

These Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, chocolatey flavor of classic brownies with the vibrant color and subtle tang of red velvet. Topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting, they make an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.

The image shows a close-up of a single square piece of red velvet cake with thick, creamy white frosting on top. The cake has two layers: a dense, moist, dark red bottom layer with a slightly crumbly texture, and a smooth, thick white frosting layer spread unevenly on top with soft swirls. Around the main piece, there are a few more similar squares of red velvet cake partially visible on a white marbled surface, with some small cake crumbs scattered nearby. The lighting highlights the rich red color of the cake and the creamy texture of the frosting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3/4 cup (158 g) butter, melted (regular or dairy free)
3/4 cup (150 g) light brown sugar
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon liquid red food coloring
1 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
1/4 cup (22 g) cocoa powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup + 3 tbsp (148 g) all-purpose flour
Cream Cheese Frosting:
4 oz plain cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 cup (53 g) butter, softened (dairy free or regular)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1 1/2 – 2 cups (180 g) powdered sugar (icing sugar)
2 tablespoons cornstarch (only if dairy free)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Melt the butter and transfer it to a medium bowl. Whisk in both sugars until the mixture forms a paste that pulls away cleanly from the bowl.
Step 3: Add eggs, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Mix until evenly combined. Adjust the red food coloring if a deeper color is desired.
Step 4: Sift together cocoa powder, salt, and flour. Add to the wet ingredients and whisk just until combined.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, scraping the bowl with a spatula to get all the batter in.
Step 6: Bake for 30-40 minutes. Begin checking at 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. The top should be crinkly.
Step 7: While the brownies cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat together cream cheese, butter, salt, and vanilla until smooth.
Step 8: Gradually add powdered sugar until you reach your desired frosting consistency. If using dairy free cream cheese, incorporate cornstarch to thicken.
Step 9: Chill the frosting until ready to use. Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly on top.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
If you prefer a more intense red color, add extra red food coloring a little at a time.
For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives and add cornstarch to thicken the frosting.
Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.

Storage

Store frosted brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If unfrosted, brownies can be kept at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. Reheat unfrosted brownies gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if desired.

How to Serve

The image shows close-up pieces of a dessert with two layers: a thick, moist, dark red bottom layer that looks soft and dense, topped with a smooth, creamy white frosting layer with gentle swirls. The pieces are placed on a white marbled surface, and there are some red crumbs scattered around. In the background, a blurred light pink drink is visible. The focus is on the front piece showing clear detail of both layers and the texture of the frosting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies without red food coloring?

Yes, but the classic red velvet color will be missing. You may still enjoy a delicious chocolate brownie with cream cheese frosting, though the visual effect will be different.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies at about 30 minutes. They are done when the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter, and the top has a crinkly appearance. Avoid overbaking to keep them fudgy.