Irresistible Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that combines the rich, chocolaty taste of brownies with the vibrant flair of red velvet and the creamy tang of cream cheese frosting, then you’re about to fall head over heels for these Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting. This decadent treat is fudgy, moist, and perfectly balanced, offering a luscious texture and a flavor that’s truly unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet and indulgent, these brownies will satisfy every chocolate lover’s sweet craving in the best way possible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fudgy Perfection: These brownies are ultra-moist and fudgy, creating the ideal chocolatey base with a red velvet twist.
• Rich Cream Cheese Frosting: The smooth, tangy frosting complements the brownies perfectly, adding a luscious layer of flavor.
• Vibrant and Eye-Catching: The classic red velvet color makes these brownies as beautiful as they are delicious.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe anyone can master, even first-timers.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: They’re festive enough for holidays but also great as an everyday indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting lies in how each ingredient plays a role in creating its signature texture and flavor. The components come together seamlessly, balancing moisture, richness, and that iconic red hue.

• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Brings deep chocolate flavor without adding extra fat or sweetness.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the brownies while keeping them tender and soft.
• Sugar: Balances the cocoa bitterness and enhances the overall sweetness.
• Vegetable Oil: Adds moisture and keeps the brownies wonderfully fudgy.
• Buttermilk: Reacts with baking soda to give the brownies a slight tang and tender crumb.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and help with the structure and richness.
• Red Food Coloring: Creates the signature red velvet color that dazzles the eyes.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate and complements the cream cheese frosting perfectly.
• Baking Soda: Provides lift and tenderness.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
• Cream Cheese: The star of the frosting, lending smoothness and a slight tang.
• Butter: Adds richness to the frosting and helps with a silky texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it light and fluffy.

Variations for Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting. This recipe is flexible and invites all sorts of tweaks based on dietary preferences or just fun twists.

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a pleasant crunch and added texture.
• Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based butter and cream cheese, and swap buttermilk with almond milk and vinegar.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle warmth that elevates the chocolate flavor.
• Double Chocolate: Mix in chocolate chips into the batter or sprinkle some on top before frosting.
• Berry Infusion: Swirl in some raspberry or strawberry jam into the batter for a fruity red velvet twist.

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This prevents lumps and ensures an even distribution of ingredients in your batter.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, folding gently until everything is just combined — be careful not to overmix to avoid tough brownies.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined brownie pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs but no raw batter.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the brownies cool, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla extract, and continue beating until creamy and smooth.

Step 6: Frost and Chill

Once the brownies have cooled completely, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top. For best texture, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Pull brownies out when there are still moist crumbs on the toothpick to keep them fudgy, not dry.
• Use Quality Cocoa: A good-quality cocoa powder makes a huge difference in depth of flavor.
• Chill Before Frosting: Let brownies cool completely to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.
• Color Tip: Use gel-based red food coloring for a more vibrant color without affecting batter consistency.

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Add an extra touch by sprinkling crushed nuts, red velvet crumbs, or fresh berries on top of the frosting for a beautiful presentation and added texture.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the creamy richness of the brownies and enhance every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut brownies into bite-sized squares and serve on decorative trays for parties, or layer them in a glass jar with frosting for a stunning dessert parfait.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your frosted brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 5 days while maintaining their moist and creamy texture.

Freezing

Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. They keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, then reapply frosting if needed.

Reheating

Warm brownies briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to refresh that fudgy texture before enjoying, but avoid overheating to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I make Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, and make sure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to one cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How do I get the red velvet color without food coloring?

Red velvet’s signature color mainly comes from food coloring, but you can try using natural alternatives like beet juice, though it may slightly alter the taste.

Can I bake these brownies without the cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! The brownies are delicious on their own and can be dusted with powdered sugar or served with whipped cream if you prefer.

Why is my cream cheese frosting runny?

This usually happens if the cream cheese or butter is too warm or if the powdered sugar is added too quickly; chilling the frosting before using helps firm it up.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting that makes every bite a joyful experience. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe delivers moist, rich, and indulgent brownies elevated by the smooth tang of cream cheese frosting. Go ahead and give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!

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