Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are rich, decadent treats that combine the classic flavors of red velvet cake with the fudgy texture of brownies. Topped with a smooth and tangy cream cheese frosting, these brownies are a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. They’re not overly sweet, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion. If you love red velvet cake but want something a bit more indulgent, these brownies are the way to go.

Their vibrant color and delightful taste make them perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just whenever you’re craving something truly special. Not a fan of frosting? Feel free to enjoy them plain, and they will still be irresistibly delicious.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Knife

Ingredients:

For the Red Velvet Brownies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp red food coloring (more if needed for desired color)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Prepare the Red Velvet Brownies:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring.
   • Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt, and gently fold into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
   • Stir in the white vinegar until well incorporated.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
2. Bake the Brownies:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
   • Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until smooth and fluffy.
   • Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and beat until well combined.
4. Frost the Brownies:
   • Once the brownies have cooled completely, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
   • Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the brownies.
5. Serve:
   • Cut the frosted brownies into squares and serve. Enjoy the rich, velvety texture and the creamy, tangy frosting.

These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are sure to become a favorite dessert. Their luxurious texture and balanced flavors make them an irresistible treat for any occasion.