Ruby Delight in Every Bite (Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting)

If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s equal parts luxurious and fun, look no further! These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the dreamy, chewy treats that will make your heart flutter and your taste buds sing. With their vibrant ruby color and a rich, fudgy texture, each brownie is kissed with the delightful tang of cream cheese frosting—ensuring every bite is an indulgent flavor explosion! Perfect for celebrations or a cozy night in, these brownies are not just a treat, they are a love letter to all dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– Big, Bold Flavors: The combination of rich chocolate and tangy cream cheese creates a flavor harmony that’s impossible to resist!
– Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving a crowd or just indulging yourself, these brownies are sure to impress!
– Flexible & Fast: With simple ingredients and an easy process, you’ll have these beauties baked and frosted in no time!
– Dairy-Free Option: Perfect for any dietary restrictions, you can whip up a batch that everyone can enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the star players in these luscious Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting! You’ll need a handful of staples, plus a couple of key ingredients that will elevate your brownies to the next level. The melted butter adds richness, while the cream cheese frosting creates a velvety finish that makes these brownies truly unforgettable.

– 3/4 cup butter, melted (regular or dairy-free)
– 3/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 tbsp vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon liquid red food coloring (see notes)
– 1½ teaspoon white vinegar
– ¼ cup cocoa powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup + 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (see notes)
– 4 oz plain cream cheese, room temperature (see notes if dairy-free)
– ¼ cup butter, softened (dairy-free or regular)
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– pinch of salt
– 1½-2 cups powdered sugar (icing sugar)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch (only if dairy-free, see notes)

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The beauty of these Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting is their versatility! Feel free to get creative with these tantalizing variations:
– Go Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, and you won’t miss a beat!
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nutrition.
– Make it Spicier: Add a dash of cayenne or chili powder for a surprising twist!
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different flavors of extracts in the frosting, like almond or peppermint.
– Cheese it Up: For a richer taste, mix in some additional cream cheese into the batter before baking.

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies

Baking these Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting is as easy as 1-2-3! Let’s dive into the steps:

1. Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

2. Step 2: Melt the Butter
Melt the butter in the microwave or a small pan over low heat. Transfer it to a medium bowl and watch the magic begin!

3. Step 3: Mix the Sugars
Add the light brown sugar and granulated sugar to the melted butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

4. Step 4: Add the Eggs and Color
Stir in the eggs, white vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Mix until everything is combined and the batter has a beautiful, vibrant hue.

5. Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Now, pour in the cocoa powder, salt, and flour. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough brownies!

6. Step 6: Pour and Bake
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared baking pan, using a spatula to scrape every last bit from the bowl. Bake for 30-40 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. You want a few wet crumbs but no wet batter!

7. Step 7: Cool Down and Frost!
Once baked to perfection, let your brownies cool completely before frosting them with the creamy goodness of your cream cheese frosting.

8. Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, softened butter, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until you reach your desired frosting consistency. If using dairy-free cream cheese, don’t forget the cornstarch!

9. Step 9: Frost and Chill
Store your frosting in the fridge until it’s time to frost the cooled brownies. Keep the brownies unfrosted until you’re ready to serve for the best texture!

Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Brownies

– Chewy Texture: Make sure not to overmix your batter once you add the dry ingredients. Just mix until combined for that perfect chewy texture!
– Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for an even mix and creamy frosting.
– Cooling is Key: Let your brownies cool completely before frosting to avoid a melty mess!
– Perfect Storage: Store frosted brownies in the fridge for that delightful chilled bite!

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies

Garnishes

Top off your Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting with a sprinkle of crushed nuts, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or even some festive red sprinkles for a pop of color!

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent dessert experience!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, cut your brownies into bite-sized squares and serve them in cute cupcake liners. They’re perfect for parties and gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They’ll stay fresh and delicious!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze these brownies! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and pop them in the freezer. They should last for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To enjoy your frozen brownies, thaw them in the fridge overnight and serve them chilled, or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat!

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of food coloring?
A: Absolutely! Just be mindful that different brands may yield different intensities of color. Adjust as desired!

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: While the original recipe uses all-purpose flour, you can easily substitute it with your favorite gluten-free flour blend!

Q: How do I make this dairy-free?
A: Simply replace the butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives, and use cornstarch in the frosting for the best consistency.

Q: Can I prepare this in advance?
A: Yes! You can make the brownies ahead of time and frost them just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a must-try for any dessert lover! Rich, fudgy, and draped in a silky smooth frosting, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these brownies are the perfect treat to elevate your dessert game. So grab your apron and let’s get baking—deliciousness awaits!