These red velvet brownies are a fun twist on the classic treat! With a rich red color and a hint of cocoa, they are both pretty and yummy.
The creamy frosting on top really brings it all together. I can’t help but sneak one while they cool—who can resist? 😋
Making these brownies is easy! Just mix, bake, and frost. They are perfect for parties or a sweet afternoon snack. Enjoy your delicious masterpiece!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This gives the brownies richness. If you’re in a pinch, you can use melted coconut oil or a non-dairy butter substitute for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar creates the perfect sweetness. For a less processed option, try using coconut sugar, but note that it may add a slight caramel flavor.
Eggs: They keep the brownies moist. If you’re avoiding eggs, try using flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water equals one egg) for a neat replacement.
Red Food Coloring: This is essential for that signature look. For a natural version, consider beet juice or powder, which will still give you similar color but with a different taste.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives depth. Note that Dutch-processed cocoa will make it a bit less tangy, but it’s still a great option!
Cream Cheese: The tangy frosting adds a nice contrast. For a vegan alternative, use a cashew-based cream cheese or silken tofu blended until smooth.
How Do I Get the Perfect Cream Cheese Swirl?
Creating lovely swirls can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get it just right! Here’s how to achieve those beautiful cream cheese ribbons:
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened well—this makes it easier to blend.
- When you pour the cream cheese filling into the brownie batter, drop it in spoonfuls to ensure even distribution.
- Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese into the red velvet batter, but don’t overdo it! Less swirling often looks better, giving clear lines of cream cheese.
Red Velvet Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownies:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cream Cheese Swirls:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious red velvet brownie recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 30-35 minutes to bake. Make sure to let them cool completely before cutting. So, get ready to enjoy your tasty treat in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper to make removal easy later.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until it’s all blended together nicely.
3. Add Eggs and Flavor:
Next, add the eggs one by one, making sure to beat well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract along with the red food coloring to give those brownies their signature color!
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. This helps to prevent lumps and ensures a smooth batter. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined; you don’t want to over-mix!
5. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until it’s creamy and smooth. This will create the wonderful swirl for your brownies.
6. Layer the Brownies:
Pour half of the red velvet brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Then, drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over this layer. Finally, pour the remaining red velvet batter on top.
7. Create Swirls:
Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the cream cheese filling into the red velvet batter to create a lovely marbled effect. Don’t overdo it—just a few swirls will do!
8. Bake the Brownies:
Place your pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
9. Cool and Serve:
After baking, let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delightful red velvet brownies with friends or a cozy cup of coffee!
Can I Use Different Food Coloring?
Yes, you can use gel food coloring instead of liquid for a more vibrant color. If you want a more natural option, beet juice can also work, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Brownies?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just make sure to wrap them tightly!
Can I Make These Brownies Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum to help with texture. The brownies should turn out just as delicious!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor or Texture?
Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or white chocolate chunks to the batter for an extra boost of flavor and texture. Just mix them in gently before pouring the batter into the pan!
