Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting
These Red Velvet Brownies with Frosting combine a rich, fudgy texture with the iconic vibrant red color and subtle chocolate flavor of red velvet, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is straightforward and delivers a decadent indulgence in every bite.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies (8x8 inch pan, cut into 4x4 squares) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free flour substitution)
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (60ml) buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 ounces (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups (120-180g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Prepare Your Pan and Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Gather and measure all ingredients to have everything ready.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, melt the unsalted butter and let it cool slightly. Add the granulated sugar and whisk until combined. Beat in the large eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, buttermilk, and red food coloring until the mixture is vibrant and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Sifting ensures there are no lumps and helps distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula, folding gently to avoid overmixing. Mix until just combined to keep the brownies tender.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to maintain fudgy texture.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the brownies bake, beat softened cream cheese with butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until fluffy and spreadable.
- Frost and Chill: Allow the brownies to cool completely before spreading the frosting evenly over the top. Chill in the fridge for at least an hour to set the frosting and enhance the flavors.
Notes
- Use a kitchen scale for flour to avoid dry brownies caused by over-measuring.
- Fold ingredients gently to prevent developing gluten and achieve a fudgy texture.
- Opt for Dutch-processed cocoa powder for deeper chocolate flavor and better color.
- Bring eggs, butter, and cream cheese to room temperature to ensure smooth mixing.
- Refrigerate brownies after frosting to let flavors meld and frosting set beautifully.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approximately)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: red velvet brownies, brownies with frosting, cream cheese frosting, fudgy brownies, red velvet dessert