Description
These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting combine the rich, classic flavor of red velvet cake with the fudgy texture of brownies. Topped with a smooth and tangy cream cheese frosting, they make a perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and a hint of cocoa.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese (at room temperature)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, pour it into a large mixing bowl with granulated sugar and mix until well combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing thoroughly until the batter is smooth and evenly colored.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined and there are no streaks of flour remaining in the batter.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare Frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, continuing to beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter and frosting.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
- Adjust red food coloring amount based on desired vibrancy.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a richer flavor, consider using Dutch-process cocoa powder.
