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–+ servings

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Rose
These Red Velvet Brownies are rich, fudgy, and perfectly balanced with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Featuring a vibrant red color, light cocoa flavor, and chewy texture, they’re an easy one-pan dessert ideal for holidays, Valentine’s Day, parties, or anytime you want a stunning yet simple treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 9 squares
Calories 260 kcal

Equipment

  • 8×8-inch baking pan
  • parchment paper
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • hand mixer or stand mixer
  • spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Dutch-processed cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon red gel food coloring
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease if needed.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. Whisk until fully combined and glossy.
  • Stir in the cocoa powder and espresso powder (if using). Mix well, then add the red gel food coloring. Continue stirring until the batter is evenly colored.
  • Fold in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the brownies tough.
  • Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
  • Beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy. Add powdered sugar gradually, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract and salt. Add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
  • Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Chill for 20–30 minutes for cleaner slices. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Do not overbake to keep the brownies fudgy. Allow them to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting. Use gel food coloring for the most vibrant red color without thinning the batter. Store refrigerated due to the cream cheese frosting. For cleaner slices, chill before cutting and use a warm knife wiped clean between cuts.

Nutrition

Calories: 260kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 85mgFiber: 1gSugar: 24gVitamin A: 450IUCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg
Keyword cream cheese brownies, fudgy brownies, red velvet brownies, valentine's day dessert
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