Easy Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both decadent and beautifully vibrant, look no further than these Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting. This treat perfectly combines the moist, fudgy texture of classic brownies with the rich, tangy cream cheese frosting that elevates every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to brighten up your day with something sweet, this recipe never disappoints. The deep red color paired with the creamy swirl makes for an irresistible dessert that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Fudgy Texture: Each brownie is dense and moist, giving you that rich chocolate experience with a red velvet twist.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Cream Cheese Swirl Magic: The luscious frosting adds just the right amount of tanginess, balancing the sweet and deep flavors.
• Vibrant Presentation: The bright red color creates an eye-catching dessert that’s sure to impress guests.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just an everyday indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting lies in its simple yet thoughtful ingredient list. Each component plays a vital role: from the cocoa for depth and richness to the cream cheese that brings that signature tang and creaminess.

• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds chocolate flavor and contributes to the classic red velvet depth.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure for the fudgy brownie texture without being cakey.
• Sugar: Sweetens the brownies and helps with moisture retention.
• Unsalted Butter: Melts into the batter for a rich, tender crumb.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients and add to the fudgy consistency.
• Red Food Coloring: Delivers the vibrant, iconic red hue.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and elevates flavors.
• Cream Cheese: Essential for the frosting, giving it a tangy, creamy finish.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a smooth swirl.
• Heavy Cream or Milk: Adjusts frosting consistency to perfection.

Variations for Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

This recipe is amazingly flexible, welcoming creative twists to suit your mood or dietary preferences. Here are some simple ways to make it your own without losing its signature charm.

• Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans to add crunch and a nutty undertone.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for the same fudgy texture.
• Dairy-Free Twist: Use vegan butter, non-dairy cream cheese, and plant-based milk for a dairy-free treat.
• Chocolate Chips: Stir in white or dark chocolate chips to boost the chocolatey goodness.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to give a subtle warmth and interest.

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies once baked.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

Melt the unsalted butter and stir in the cocoa powder and sugar until smooth. Beat eggs and vanilla into the mixture, then add in the red food coloring to achieve that beautiful red hue. Finally, fold in the flour and salt until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain fudginess.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and a splash of heavy cream or milk until you achieve a creamy, spreadable consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Brownies

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spoon dollops of the cream cheese frosting over the batter, then add the remaining brownie batter on top. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the frosting and batter together, creating a marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Don’t overbake; you want these brownies fudgy, not dry.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing to preserve the luscious texture and layers. Serve chilled or at room temperature for an indulgent treat.

Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temp eggs and cream cheese for smoother batter and frosting.
• Don’t Overmix: Fold in flour gently to keep brownies dense and fudgy, not cakey.
• Swirl with Care: Use gentle, delicate motions when swirling the frosting for beautiful marbling without mixing it completely.
• Use Real Cocoa: Opt for good-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich, authentic flavor.
• Test for Doneness Early: Start checking your brownies at 30 minutes; residual heat will finish baking without drying them out.

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Enhance the presentation by dusting a little cocoa powder or powdered sugar on top, or sprinkle with mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture and extra appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce to make your dessert even more indulgent and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the brownies on a slate board with fresh berries and mint leaves for a stunning visual effect, perfect for impressing guests at gatherings or parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness and cream cheese frosting quality.

Freezing

Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to refresh their softness without melting the frosting completely.

FAQs

Can I use boxed brownie mix to make Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

While boxed brownie mix can be a shortcut, it’s best to use a homemade recipe to fully control the red velvet flavor and get that perfect cream cheese swirl consistency.

What can I use instead of red food coloring?

You can try natural alternatives like beet juice or powder, but the color may be less vibrant and might affect the flavor slightly.

How do I prevent the cream cheese frosting from being runny?

Make sure your cream cheese is well chilled and fully softened, and adjust powdered sugar and heavy cream amounts slowly until your desired thickness is achieved.

Can these brownies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup to keep the brownies fudgy and delicious.

Should I store the brownies in the fridge or at room temperature?

Due to the cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is recommended if you plan to store brownies for more than a day to keep the frosting fresh and safe to eat.

Final Thoughts

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting combine the best of two classic treats into one unforgettable dessert. Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying a quiet moment of indulgence, these fudgy brownies topped with a creamy, tangy swirl are sure to become a favorite in your recipe box. So go ahead—grab your ingredients and start baking these irresistible delights today!

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