There is something truly magical about indulging in a rich, moist dessert like the Red Velvet Brownies Recipe that perfectly combines the classic charm of red velvet cake with the fudgy decadence of a brownie. This delightful treat offers a vibrant red hue, a hint of cocoa, and a sweetness that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a luscious treat, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to create these show-stopping Red Velvet Brownies. Each component plays a key role in developing the moist texture, subtle tang, and signature vibrant color you expect from this dessert.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps create that fudgy brownie texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly without overpowering the cocoa notes.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add moisture for a soft, chewy bite.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavors with its warm, aromatic touch.
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring: Gives the brownies their signature, eye-catching red color.
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Infuses just the right amount of chocolate depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar: Enhances the red velvet flavor and reacts with baking essentials for lift.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure without making the brownies dense.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or cream cheese swirl (optional): Adds a creamy richness and a beautiful contrast to the cocoa.
How to Make Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal of your brownies and helps them bake evenly.
Step 2: Combine Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and silky. This is where the magic of moist, rich brownies begins.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add the eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and white vinegar. Mix until you have a smooth, vibrant red batter. The vinegar will react subtly to deepen the flavor without adding a noticeable tang.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Carefully sift in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Gently stir the batter just until everything is combined—overmixing can lead to tougher brownies, and you want them tender and fudgy.
Step 5: Add the Optional Swirl or Chips
If you’re using white chocolate chips or a cream cheese swirl, fold them into the batter gently. This adds a dreamy, creamy dimension to the finished brownies that makes them even more irresistible.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This ensures your brownies stay fudgy, not dry.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Allow your brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This cooling step helps them set perfectly and makes slicing a breeze.
How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the indulgence by dusting your brownies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can add a refreshing balance to the richness.
Side Dishes
Pair these vibrant brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that never disappoints. For a festive touch, serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries to complement the red velvet theme.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, layer Red Velvet Brownies Recipe squares with cream cheese frosting in a trifle bowl or stack them with alternating layers of whipped cream and berries for a dessert parfait. You can also cut the brownies into bite-sized pieces and serve with toothpicks for easy sharing at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Red Velvet Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This will keep the brownies soft and moist, so every bite stays just as delightful as when freshly baked.
Freezing
If you want to save them longer, these brownies freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to two months.
Reheating
To enjoy your brownies warm, simply microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or let them come to room temperature after thawing. Warming up slightly brings back that gooey texture and intensifies the luscious flavors.
FAQs
Can I make this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe without food coloring?
While the red color is a signature characteristic, you can technically skip the red food coloring. However, you’ll lose the vibrant look that makes red velvet so special. For a more natural approach, beet juice or powder can be used but may slightly alter the flavor.
What’s the difference between red velvet brownies and regular brownies?
Red velvet brownies incorporate cocoa powder and vinegar with red food coloring, creating a subtle tang and distinct color, whereas regular brownies are typically richer with a denser chocolate flavor. The texture is often fudgier and the flavor profile slightly different due to the vinegar and cream cheese additions.
Can I substitute the white chocolate chips with something else?
Absolutely! You can swap white chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips, milk chocolate, or even nuts if you prefer. Each variation will bring a unique twist, such as added crunch or a deeper chocolate flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or gelatin. However, it is not vegan since it includes eggs and butter.
How do I make a cream cheese swirl for these brownies?
Mix 4 ounces of cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 egg yolk until smooth. Dollop spoonfuls over the brownie batter and gently swirl with a knife before baking. This creates a creamy, tangy counterpoint to the rich cocoa flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to experience a dessert that combines vibrant color, rich flavor, and decadent texture, this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is an absolute must-try. Its simplicity, versatility, and irresistible taste make it perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to heartfelt celebrations. Dive in and treat yourself — these brownies might just become your new favorite indulgence.
Print
Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Red Velvet Brownies are a decadent twist on classic brownies, featuring a rich cocoa flavor enhanced with red food coloring, and optionally swirled with creamy white chocolate or a luscious cream cheese mixture. Perfectly fudgy and moist, these brownies make a delightful dessert for any occasion, especially Valentine’s Day or special celebrations.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Cream Cheese Swirl
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 egg yolk
Optional Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or cream cheese swirl
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and cleanup.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fully combined. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and white vinegar, mixing thoroughly until the batter is smooth and evenly colored.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt into the wet ingredients. Gently stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
- Prepare Optional Swirl: If making a cream cheese swirl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, and egg yolk until smooth. Gently fold white chocolate chips or swirl the cream cheese mixture into the batter as desired, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 9 equal squares. This resting time helps set the brownies for clean cuts and optimal texture.
Notes
- For a richer red hue, increase the amount of red food coloring slightly.
- To create a cream cheese swirl, mix 4 oz cream cheese, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 egg yolk, then dollop and swirl into the brownie batter before baking.
- Ensure not to overbake to keep brownies fudgy; check at 25 minutes.
- Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal and to avoid sticking.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
