Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate indulgence—soft, chewy, and irresistibly rich. With a deep red hue and a luscious layer of smooth cream cheese frosting, they’re perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you crave something special. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or just want a show-stopping dessert, these brownies deliver both style and flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 4 ounces chopped bittersweet chocolate baking bar
• ¾ cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 (1-ounce) bottle red liquid food coloring
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1 (8-ounce) package softened cream cheese
• 3 tablespoons softened unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Melt the chocolate and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth. Be careful not to overheat or burn the chocolate.
3. Whisk the sugar and eggs together in a large mixing bowl until well combined. Add the melted chocolate mixture and mix until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients and coloring. Stir in flour, baking powder, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is fully incorporated and evenly red.
5. Bake the brownies. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40–44 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs. Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting.
6. Prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract and beat until light and fluffy.
7. Frost and serve. Spread frosting evenly over cooled brownies, slice, and enjoy the perfect red velvet treat!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Slice brownies into neat squares using a sharp knife. Chill before cutting for cleaner edges.
• Room Temperature Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep frosted brownies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow them to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted brownies for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then frost before serving.
• Frosting Ahead: Make frosting up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate; let it soften slightly before spreading.
• Presentation Tip: Garnish with chocolate shavings, red sprinkles, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a professional look.

Variations

1. Swirled Cheesecake Brownies: Add dollops of cream cheese batter on top of the brownie batter and swirl for a marbled effect.
2. White Chocolate Chip Red Velvet Brownies: Fold in white chocolate chips for added sweetness and texture.
3. Red Velvet Oreo Brownies: Crush Oreos and mix into the batter for a cookies-and-cream flavor.
4. Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and contrast.
5. Brownie Sundae: Serve warm brownies with vanilla ice cream and hot fudge sauce for an indulgent dessert.
6. Red Velvet Truffle Brownies: Roll cooled brownie pieces into balls, dip in melted white chocolate, and chill.
7. Layered Red Velvet Bars: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the brownie and frosting.
8. Heart-Shaped Brownies: Cut brownies with a heart-shaped cutter—perfect for Valentine’s Day.
9. Red Velvet S’mores Brownies: Top with mini marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs before baking.
10. Peppermint Red Velvet Brownies: Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes for a festive holiday treat.
11. Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the frosting for a rich, sweet-salty balance.
12. Raspberry Red Velvet Brownies: Swirl in raspberry jam before baking for a fruity twist.
13. Layered Cheesecake Brownies: Add a thick cheesecake layer on top of the brownie base and bake together.
14. Mocha Red Velvet Brownies: Add 1 teaspoon espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
15. Mini Red Velvet Brownie Bites: Bake in mini muffin tins for perfectly portioned bites for parties or gifts.

FAQs

1. Can I use cocoa powder instead of bittersweet chocolate?
Yes, replace it with 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon butter.

2. Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?
Yes, gel coloring works well; start with ½ teaspoon and adjust for intensity.

3. How do I make the brownies more fudgy?
Slightly reduce the baking time and avoid overmixing the batter.

4. Can I make these brownies without frosting?
Absolutely—they’re delicious on their own.

5. Why did my brownies turn out dry?
They were likely overbaked. Check for moist crumbs on the toothpick test.

6. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

7. What’s the best way to cut clean brownie squares?
Chill brownies first and wipe your knife between cuts.

8. Can I add more chocolate?
Yes! Fold in chocolate chunks or chips for extra richness.

9. How can I make them look more festive?
Top with colored sprinkles, edible glitter, or themed decorations.

10. Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate it for up to 3 days and re-whip before spreading.

These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting combine everything you love about red velvet cake and classic brownies in one irresistible dessert. Moist, chewy, and beautifully red, they’re finished with a silky cream cheese frosting that makes every bite divine. Ideal for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you want to impress, this easy recipe guarantees bakery-quality results from your own kitchen.

Print