If you’re looking for a dessert that brings the perfect balance of rich chocolatey goodness with a vibrant pop of color, then this Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is an absolute must-try. These brownies are decadently moist, with that classic red velvet flavor that’s both luxurious and comforting, topped with a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting that turns every bite into a celebration. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to reach for whenever you want to impress or indulge.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and that iconic red hue in your brownies. From the velvety bittersweet chocolate to the vibrant red food coloring, every element is essential to crafting this show-stopping dessert.
- Bittersweet chocolate baking bar (4 oz): Brings deep chocolate richness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Butter (¾ cup): Adds moisture and a luscious texture that’s key to fudgy brownies.
- Sugar (2 cups): Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb throughout.
- Large eggs (4): Bind the batter and add structure while keeping it moist.
- All-purpose flour (1½ cups): Provides the perfect foundation for brownies with just the right density.
- Red liquid food coloring (1 oz bottle): Gives that unmistakable red velvet color that delights the eyes as much as the taste buds.
- Baking powder (1½ tsp): Offers a subtle lift to keep brownies from being too dense.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor profile adding warmth and depth.
- Salt (â…› tsp): Balances sweetness and intensifies all flavors in the batter.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The star of the frosting, offering tanginess and creaminess that complements the brownies beautifully.
- Butter (3 Tbsp, softened): Ensures the frosting is silky smooth and spreadable.
- Powdered sugar (1½ cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting for just the right consistency.
- Salt (â…› tsp): A tiny pinch that balances sweetness in the frosting perfectly.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds aroma and a lovely flavor boost to the frosting.
How to Make Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Base
Start by melting the chopped bittersweet chocolate and butter together gently. This creates the rich chocolate base that will infuse every bite with deep flavor and fudgy texture. Use a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring often to avoid burning.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Once the chocolate mixture is smooth and slightly cooled, whisk in the sugar and eggs one at a time. This step is the key to a glossy, smooth batter that will bake into moist, tender brownies. Stir in the vanilla extract next to add warmth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Add Color
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture, being careful not to overmix. Then stir in the red liquid food coloring until you achieve that signature eye-catching red velvet color.
Step 4: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter evenly into a prepared 9×13-inch pan lined with parchment paper, smoothing the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs but not raw batter. Let it cool completely before frosting.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable. This frosting adds the perfect tangy contrast to the sweet and rich brownie base.
Step 6: Frost the Brownies
Once the brownies have fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. You want a nice, thick layer to complement the dense brownie underneath. Chill the pan for about 30 minutes to let the frosting set before slicing.
How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of white chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a scattering of festive red and white sprinkles can add visual interest and additional textures, elevating your brownies to a dessert that looks just as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Pair these luscious brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce to balance the richness with cool creaminess or a hint of fruitiness. Fresh berries on the side can add a fresh burst that complements the dense texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the brownies into fun shapes with cookie cutters or layering small brownie squares in a glass with whipped cream and berries for a decadent parfait. These approachable twists make the Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe perfect for gifting or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh and creamy. Proper storage will keep them moist and delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; they’ll keep for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze the frosting separately and frost freshly thawed brownies before serving.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy your brownies warm, heat a single slice in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Avoid warming the entire pan with frosting as it can soften and lose its texture; instead, warm brownies before frosting to preserve that perfect cream cheese layer.
FAQs
Can I use cocoa powder instead of the bittersweet chocolate bar?
While cocoa powder can work, it will slightly change the texture and intensity of chocolate flavor. The bittersweet bar adds a richer, fudgier depth that’s ideal for this recipe.
What if I don’t have liquid red food coloring?
You can substitute with gel food coloring, which is more concentrated—use less to avoid altering batter consistency. Avoid powder forms as they may not blend well.
How can I tell when the brownies are done?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. The edges will look set and slightly pulled away from the pan.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can swap butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives, but keep in mind the flavor and texture may vary slightly depending on the products used.
Is it okay to double the frosting recipe?
Absolutely! If you like a thicker layer of frosting or want extra to pipe decorations, doubling the frosting amounts works perfectly with this brownie batch.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying this Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe enough. It’s a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and homey. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these brownies bring a special kind of joy to every bite. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll be a dessert you’ll want to keep coming back to!
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Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a luscious twist on the classic dessert, combining the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the vibrant color and subtle tang of red velvet. Topped with a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting, this treat is perfect for celebrations or any time you crave a decadent sweet.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1 (4-oz) bittersweet chocolate baking bar, chopped
- ¾ cup butter
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 (1-oz) bottle red liquid food coloring
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- â…› tsp salt
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 3 Tbsp butter, softened
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- â…› tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Melt chocolate and butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, gently melt the chopped bittersweet chocolate and ¾ cup butter together until smooth. Stir to combine and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the sugar and eggs until pale and fluffy. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture and stir in the red food coloring and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Bake the brownies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the batter evenly into the pan and bake for about 40-45 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter.
- Prepare frosting: While the brownies bake, beat together the softened cream cheese and softened 3 tablespoons of butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
- Cool and frost: Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice into 16 equal squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure brownies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use high-quality bittersweet chocolate for richer flavor.
- Red food coloring can be adjusted for desired color intensity.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a thicker frosting, chill it briefly before spreading.
