Irresistible Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting Recipe

If you’re a chocolate lover looking for a new twist on a classic treat, these Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting are about to become your go-to dessert. Combining the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the vibrant color and subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet, topped with a smooth and creamy frosting, this recipe offers an irresistible blend of decadence and charm. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting will delight your taste buds and impress anyone lucky enough to get a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Fudgy Texture: These brownies strike the perfect balance between dense and moist, creating that melt-in-your-mouth sensation everyone craves.
• Vibrant Red Velvet Flavor: The subtle cocoa and tangy hint of buttermilk add a unique and indulgent twist to traditional brownies.
• Decadent Cream Cheese Frosting: The smooth and tangy frosting elevates the brownies, making each bite a heavenly experience.
• Simple Ingredients, Incredible Taste: Using everyday pantry items, this recipe keeps things easy without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From birthday parties to cozy nights in, these brownies are a crowd-pleaser that fit any mood or celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps it simple with a handful of accessible ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting. Every component works together to deliver that classic color, deep flavor, and luxurious texture.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the brownies without making them heavy.
• Cocoa Powder: Adds a subtle chocolate undertone key to the red velvet taste.
• Sugar: Sweetens the batter evenly and helps achieve a moist crumb.
• Unsalted Butter: Contributes richness and a tender crumb when melted and incorporated properly.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture for fudginess.
• Buttermilk: Introduces a light tang and reacts with baking soda for lift and softness.
• Red Food Coloring: Creates that signature deep red color without affecting flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm sweetness.
• Baking Soda: Helps the brownies rise just enough for a tender texture.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• Cream Cheese: The base of the frosting, offering a tangy, creamy finish.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for spreadability.
• Heavy Cream or Milk: Adjusts the frosting texture to silky perfection.
• Butter (for frosting): Adds richness and smoothness to the frosting.

Variations for Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting

Feel free to personalize your Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting in countless delicious ways. This recipe is flexible and easy to adapt whether you want to experiment with flavors, accommodate dietary restrictions, or simply mix things up.

• Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and a toasty flavor accent.
• Vegan Version: Substitute butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs, and vegan cream cheese alternatives for frosting.
• Spiced Red Velvet: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a subtle warmth that complements the cocoa.
• Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for allergy-friendly brownies.
• Chocolate Chip Surprise: Toss in white or dark chocolate chips for pockets of melty chocolate inside the brownies.

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How to Make Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a square baking pan with parchment paper or grease it well to ensure the brownies release easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents and prevents lumps in the batter.

Step 3: Melt Butter and Combine Wet Ingredients

Gently melt the butter and pour it into a large bowl. Add sugar and whisk until smooth. Then beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix—just combine until no streaks remain to maintain a tender, fudgy crumb.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep them perfectly fudgy.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the brownies are cooling, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, continuing to beat until fluffy. Add a splash of heavy cream or milk to reach the desired spreading consistency.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once the brownies have completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the top. Slice into squares and enjoy the rich, indulgent layers on every bite.

Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter, cream cheese, and eggs incorporate better and help achieve a smooth batter and frosting.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to tough brownies; gently fold ingredients until just combined.
• Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer helps keep your oven accurate, avoiding over- or under-baking.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Frosting warm brownies can cause it to melt and slide off.
• Customize Sweetness: Adjust powdered sugar in frosting based on your preference for tangy or sweeter frosting.

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting

Garnishes

Sprinkle the frosted brownies with white chocolate shavings, fresh raspberries, or crushed nuts to add color, texture, and flavor contrasts that elevate the dish visually and taste-wise.

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an added indulgent treat. Fresh berries or a simple fruit salad complement the rich flavors nicely as well.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting in a layered dessert cup with added layers of whipped cream or mascarpone. Alternatively, cut into bite-sized pieces and serve as part of a dessert platter alongside cookies and truffles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep the frosting fresh and prevent the brownies from drying out.

Freezing

Freeze unfrosted brownies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then frost just before serving for best results.

Reheating

Warm refrigerated brownies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften before serving. Avoid overheating to keep the texture just right and the frosting intact.

FAQs

Can I use regular brownies instead of red velvet for this frosting?

Absolutely! The cream cheese frosting works wonderfully on traditional chocolate brownies as well, adding a tangy contrast that pairs beautifully.

Is there a substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?

Yes, you can make a simple buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Definitely! Use a trusted gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with a 1:1 substitution to keep the brownies moist and delicious.

How do I get that vibrant red color without artificial dyes?

Try natural alternatives like beet juice or powder, but keep in mind the intensity may be lighter, and the flavor may vary slightly.

Can I prepare the frosting in advance?

Yes, the cream cheese frosting can be made 1-2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature and re-whip before spreading.

Final Thoughts

Making these Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting is a joyful experience that rewards you with incredible flavor and texture. Whether you’re treating family, impressing guests, or simply indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and share the love with every rich, fudgy, and creamy bite!

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