Description
Rich, fudgy, and beautifully vibrant, these Red Velvet Brownies blend deep cocoa flavor with the classic tang of red velvet. Topped with a creamy layer of cream cheese frosting, they’re the perfect treat for parties, holidays, or whenever you crave something indulgent and elegant.
Introduction
Red velvet desserts are known for their signature color, smooth texture, and subtle cocoa notes — and these brownies capture all of that in a simple, one-bowl recipe. With a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and fudgy richness, these brownies offer a delicious twist on a traditional chocolate brownie.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, fudgy, and melt-in-your-mouth texture
- Classic red velvet tang
- Easy, straightforward steps
- Pairs perfectly with cream cheese frosting
- Optional nuts for extra crunch
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon white vinegar
Optional
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Topping
- Cream cheese frosting
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter and sugar until combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
Stir in the red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar.
4. Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Add Nuts (Optional)
Fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans if you want a crunchy texture.
6. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs (not fully clean — these are fudgy brownies).
7. Cool & Frost
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
Spread cream cheese frosting on top before slicing into squares.
Variations
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use vegan butter.
- Nut-free: Simply omit the nuts.
- Cream cheese swirl: Dollop spoonfuls of cream cheese mixture on top of the batter and swirl before baking.
Tips
- Use good-quality cocoa powder for deeper flavor.
- Fully cool before cutting to avoid crumbly slices.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Brownies are the perfect mix of chocolatey richness and signature red velvet tang. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’ll quickly become a favorite at gatherings and family desserts.
FAQs
Q: Can I use beetroot juice as natural coloring?
Yes, it works as a natural, healthier alternative to red food coloring.
Q: How do I prevent runny cream cheese frosting?
Ensure the butter and cream cheese are room temperature and add powdered sugar gradually.
Q: Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, freeze them (without frosting) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use buttermilk instead of vinegar?
Yes, it adds richness and enhances moisture.