Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 62 reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 28 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 16 brownies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in these Decadent Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting, a rich and fudgy twist on classic brownies. Featuring a vibrant red cocoa-infused base topped with a smooth, creamy frosting, these brownies are perfect for any dessert lover craving a luxurious treat.


Ingredients

Scale

For the brownies:

  • 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
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the cream cheese frosting:

  • 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract


Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of brownies.
  2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and white vinegar; continue whisking until well combined.
  3. Add dry ingredients: Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt into the wet mixture. Gently fold with a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
  4. Bake the batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
  5. Cool the brownies: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting. This ensures the frosting won’t melt or slide off.
  6. Make the frosting: In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  7. Frost the brownies: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled brownies using a spatula. For best results, chill the frosted brownies in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to set the frosting and make slicing easier.
  8. Serve: Slice the brownies into 16 equal pieces and enjoy your decadent red velvet treat.

Notes

  • For extra decadence, top the frosted brownies with white chocolate shavings or a light dusting of cocoa powder.
  • These brownies are rich and fudgy—avoid overbaking to maintain their soft texture.
  • Store leftover brownies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep the frosting fresh.