Red Velvet Brownies

These chewy Red Velvet Brownies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of classic red velvet cake in a fudgy, brownie form. Topped with rich cream cheese frosting, these brownies are perfect for celebrations or just a cozy night in. Plus, they can be made dairy-free, making them suitable for everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – This recipe is simple and quick, perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Rich Flavor – The combination of cocoa and vanilla creates a decadent taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile – Great for parties, holidays, or just because; these brownies fit any occasion.
• Customizable – Easily adjust the sweetness or make them dairy-free to suit your dietary needs.
• Beautiful Presentation – The vibrant red color makes these brownies visually stunning.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious Red Velvet Brownies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 square baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Toothpick

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 square baking pan – This size ensures even cooking and makes cutting perfect squares easy.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking, allowing for easy removal of brownies from the pan.
• Mixing bowls – Multiple bowls help keep ingredients organized during prep.
• Spatula – Ideal for scraping every last bit of batter from the bowl into the pan.

Ingredients

These chewy red velvet brownies are topped with the best cream cheese frosting! Plus, you can easily make these red velvet brownies dairy-free so they’re perfect if you have food allergies!

Ingredients:
– 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)

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 square baking pan with parchment paper. Leave the parchment hanging over the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Melt the butter in a microwave or on the stove. Transfer it to a medium bowl.

Step 3: Mix Sugars and Butter

Add both sugars to the melted butter. Use a whisk to combine until it resembles a paste that pulls away from the bowl’s sides.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Incorporate eggs, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring into the mixture. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Pour in cocoa powder, salt, and flour. Stir gently with a whisk until just combined; about one minute should do.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to scrape out every bit from the bowl.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 30-40 minutes. Begin checking at 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. The top should look crinkly and have a few wet crumbs on the toothpick when done.

Step 8: Cool and Frost

Allow brownies to cool completely before preparing cream cheese frosting.

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies

These chewy red velvet brownies are a delightful treat on their own, but they can also be served in creative ways that enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your dessert experience even more enjoyable.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla or cream cheese ice cream pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of red velvet brownies, adding a creamy texture and contrast.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A warm chocolate sauce drizzled over the brownies adds an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will appreciate.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries or raspberries add a tartness that complements the sweetness of the brownies, creating a well-balanced dessert.

Sprinkled with Nuts

• Chopped pecans or walnuts give a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience of eating red velvet brownies.

Served with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and richness, making each bite feel luxurious and satisfying.

How to Perfect Red Velvet Brownies

Making perfect red velvet brownies requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Quality Ingredients – High-quality cocoa powder and food coloring will enhance the flavor and color of your brownies. Opt for gel food coloring for a more vibrant hue.

• Don’t Overmix – Mix the batter just until combined to keep your brownies chewy and prevent them from becoming tough.

• Check for Doneness – Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out with a few wet crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures a fudgy texture.

• Let Them Cool Completely – Allowing your brownies to cool fully before frosting helps the cream cheese frosting set better and prevents it from melting.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Brownies

Pairing side dishes with red velvet brownies can elevate your dessert spread. Consider these tasty options that complement this sweet treat perfectly.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creaminess to balance the dense brownie texture.
2. Chocolate Mousse – Light and airy, this rich dessert contrasts nicely with chewy brownies.
3. Fruit Salad – A refreshing side full of seasonal fruits provides a light counterpoint to the sweetness of the brownies.
4. Coffee – A robust cup of coffee enhances the flavors of chocolate while providing a delightful caffeine boost.
5. Milkshake – An indulgent milkshake, especially chocolate or vanilla, creates a fun pairing for enjoying desserts.
6. Cheesecake Bites – These creamy mini desserts offer another layer of flavor without overpowering the red velvet taste.
7. Pecan Pie Bars – Rich and nutty bars add variety while still feeling decadent alongside your red velvet brownies.
8. Lemon Sorbet – The tartness of lemon sorbet refreshes the palate after enjoying sweet treats like red velvet brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking red velvet brownies can be a delightful experience, but certain pitfalls may affect your final product. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Using old ingredients – Fresh ingredients are crucial for the best flavor and texture. Always check expiration dates on baking soda, flour, and other key components.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to tough brownies. Stir until just combined for that perfect chewy texture.
• Not measuring accurately – Baking is a science! Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate ingredient ratios for successful results.
• Skipping the cooling time – Allowing brownies to cool completely before frosting prevents melting and ensures a beautiful presentation.
• Ignoring baking times – Each oven is different. Start checking your brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid over-baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store red velvet brownies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to one week.

Freezing Red Velvet Brownies

• Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to three months.

Reheating Red Velvet Brownies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place brownies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes for best results.
• Microwave – Warm each brownie for about 15-20 seconds; this makes them soft and gooey.
• Stovetop – Place brownies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture; heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about red velvet brownies:

Can I make Red Velvet Brownies dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute regular butter with dairy-free alternatives and use dairy-free cream cheese for frosting.

What should I do if my Red Velvet Brownies are dry?

If your brownies come out dry, it may be due to over-baking. Ensure you check them at the lower end of the baking time range.

How do I achieve the perfect color in my Red Velvet Brownies?

The amount of liquid red food coloring impacts color intensity. Feel free to adjust according to your preference, but start with less and add more if needed.

Can I add chocolate chips to my Red Velvet Brownies?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips enhances flavor and texture. Just fold them into the batter before baking.

Final Thoughts

These red velvet brownies are not only rich and decadent but also versatile enough for various diets. You can customize them further by adding nuts or swapping ingredients based on dietary needs. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a delicious treat that everyone will love!