Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of red velvet brownies, a delicious treat that is perfect for any occasion. These brownies are easy to make and will surely impress your friends and family with their vibrant color and irresistible taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of cocoa and red food coloring creates a unique and rich flavor profile.
- Quick and simple prep time makes this recipe perfect for busy days or last-minute dessert cravings.
- The cream cheese layer adds a creamy and tangy contrast to the sweet and chocolatey brownie base.
Ingredient Notes:
- Unsalted butter: Provides moisture and richness to the brownies.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds depth and richness to the chocolate flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies and adds a chewy texture.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure to the brownies.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the brownies.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle tanginess to complement the sweetness (optional).
- Red food coloring: Gives the brownies their iconic red hue.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure and texture to the brownies.
- Cream cheese: Creates a creamy and tangy layer on top of the brownies.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven and prepare a baking pan.
- Melt the butter and mix in cocoa powder, salt, and sugar.
- Add eggs, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring.
- Fold in flour and pour the batter into the pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla for the cream cheese layer.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter and swirl with a knife.
- Bake until set and let cool before slicing and serving.
Helpful Tips:
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red color.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a tough texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Swap cream cheese for mascarpone for a different flavor profile.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair these red velvet brownies with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee for the perfect indulgent treat.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store leftover brownies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to warm before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use natural food coloring instead of gel? Yes, but the color may be less vibrant.
- Can I omit the cream cheese layer? Yes, but it will alter the texture and flavor of the brownies.
- Can I freeze these brownies? Yes, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months.
Conclusion:
Treat yourself and your loved ones to these irresistible red velvet brownies. With their rich flavor and creamy texture, they are sure to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation. Enjoy and don’t forget to share your feedback with us!
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Red Velvet Brownies
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 12 brownies 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, decadent flavors of these Red Velvet Brownies with a luscious cream cheese layer. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings!
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Layer:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
- 2–3 teaspoons red food coloring
- ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare the brownie layer: In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, cocoa powder, salt, and sugar. Add eggs, vanilla extract, vinegar, and food coloring. Fold in flour until just combined.
- Prepare the cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Layer the batter: Spread the brownie batter evenly in the pan. Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture on top and swirl with a knife.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can adjust the intensity of the red color by adding more or less food coloring.
- For a fudgier texture, slightly underbake the brownies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg