Description

These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting combine the rich, moist texture of classic brownies with the vibrant color and subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet. Topped with a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting, this dessert is perfect for celebrations or any time you crave a decadent treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie

1 ¼ cups (155g) all-purpose flour
¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel)
¼ tsp salt

Cream Cheese Frosting

4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal of the brownies.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until fully combined. Set aside.
Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until well incorporated. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the mixture is a uniform vibrant red.
Create the Batter: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients with a spatula, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which keeps the brownies tender.
Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake 20–25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center has a few moist crumbs. Remove and let cool completely in the pan.
Make the Frosting: While brownies cool, beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
Frost and Serve: Once cooled to room temperature, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the brownies. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift brownies out, slice into squares, and serve.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to keep the brownies soft and tender.
Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant color without extra liquid.
Ensure brownies are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting the frosting.
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
For sharper edges, chill the brownies after frosting before slicing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: red velvet brownies, cream cheese frosting, brownies recipe, red velvet dessert, easy brownies, chocolate dessert