Red Velvet Brownies

Name: Red Velvet Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup Granulated sugar; ½ cup Light or dark brown sugar; 2 Eggs (room temperature); ¾ cup Unsalted butter (melted but not hot); 1¾ cups All-purpose flour; ¼ cup Unsweetened cocoa powder (high quality); ½ teaspoon Salt; High-quality red food coloring (gel); ⅓ cup Cream cheese (full-fat); 2 tablespoons Heavy cream (36% fat); ¼ cup Powdered sugar

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

February 18, 2025

Updated:

February 18, 2025

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These red velvet brownies are like a little piece of magic in dessert form. Imagine rich, fudgy goodness mingling with a vibrant red hue and a tangy cream cheese swirl that makes every bite unforgettable. You could whip this up for a cozy night in or impress your friends at a gathering. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make! I promise you, even if you don’t bake often, these brownies will make you feel like a kitchen superstar. The combination of classic brownie texture with the unique flavors of red velvet means that your taste buds are in for a treat. So grab your apron, and let’s make something special together!

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Why This Recipe Works

This red velvet brownie recipe combines the rich, moist texture of traditional brownies with the classic flavors of red velvet cake. The addition of cream cheese creates a delightful marbled effect, enhancing both the taste and visual appeal. Every bite is a perfect blend of fudgy goodness and creamy tanginess.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Brownies

These red velvet brownies are simple to make and offer a unique twist on the beloved dessert. With their vibrant color and luscious cream cheese topping, they are perfect for special occasions, gatherings, or a sweet treat that will impress anyone!

Ingredients

1 cup Granulated sugar
½ cup Light or dark brown sugar
2 Eggs (room temperature)
¾ cup Unsalted butter (melted but not hot)
1¾ cups All-purpose flour
¼ cup Unsweetened cocoa powder (high quality)
½ teaspoon Salt
High-quality red food coloring (gel)
⅓ cup Cream cheese (full-fat)
2 tablespoons Heavy cream (36% fat)
¼ cup Powdered sugar

Creating the Cream Cheese Swirl

Cream the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, and powdered sugar. Use an electric hand mixer to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.

Making the Red Velvet Brownie Batter

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 347°F (175°C) and prepare a 7-inch square brownie pan by brushing it lightly with oil and lining it with parchment paper.

Whip the Eggs and Sugars

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes.

Incorporate Melted Butter and Food Coloring

Gradually add the melted butter to the egg mixture while mixing at low speed. Then, add red food coloring to achieve your desired shade of red.

Fold in the Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overmix.

Prepare for Baking

Pour the red velvet brownie batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it evenly. Transfer the cream cheese mixture into a piping bag and pipe dots of cream cheese over the brownie batter. Use a chopstick or spoon to swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter for a marbled appearance.

Bake the Brownies

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. The edges should appear set while the center remains slightly gooey. Avoid overbaking.

Cool and Cut

Once baked, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for a few hours before carefully cutting them into squares.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these indulgent red velvet brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Adding fresh berries on the side makes for an elegant presentation.

Tips for Success

Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially the cocoa powder and red food coloring.
Check the brownies at the 25-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
Let the brownies cool completely for cleaner cuts.

Variations

Experiment by adding mini chocolate chips or nuts for added texture.
For a festive touch, add sprinkles on top before serving.

Storage Tips

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days to maintain freshness. These brownies also freeze well for up to 2 months.

Pairing Ideas

Pair these brownies with a rich espresso or a classic cup of milk for a nostalgic treat. They also pair wonderfully with a sweet red wine for adult gatherings.

FAQs

1. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

2. How do I achieve a deeper red color?
Add a few more drops of red food coloring until you reach the desired hue, but do so sparingly!

3. Can I use cream cheese frosting instead of the cream cheese swirl?
Yes, feel free to top the brownies with cream cheese frosting after baking for extra sweetness.

4. What can I do if my batter is too thick?
Add a tablespoon of milk or cream to loosen the batter.

5. How long will these brownies last at room temperature?
They can last up to 1-2 days at room temperature if stored in an airtight container.

These red velvet brownies are more than just a dessert; they are a celebration in every bite. Their vibrant color, rich, fudgy texture, and cream cheese swirl create an indulgent experience that is bound to delight. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, you’ll find yourself making these time and again. Enjoy sharing (or savoring them alone)—either way, they’re sure to bring joy!

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Red Velvet Brownies

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Brownies

Ingredients