Red Velvet Brownies

Introduction

Red Velvet Brownies are a decadent twist on the classic red velvet cake, combining the rich flavor of red velvet with the fudgy texture of brownies. These brownies are intensely chocolatey with a slight tang from the buttermilk, giving them a unique and irresistible taste. The deep red color makes them a striking addition to any dessert table, while the creamy cheesecake swirl on top adds an extra layer of indulgence.

I remember making these for a Valentine’s Day treat, and they were a showstopper. The combination of the vibrant red hue and the luscious cheesecake topping made them almost too beautiful to eat—almost! They disappeared in no time, leaving everyone asking for more. What’s great about these brownies is how versatile they are. You can cut them into elegant squares for a fancy presentation or serve them as casual, hand-held treats at a party.

These Red Velvet Brownies are surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and a little creativity. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these brownies are a surefire way to satisfy any sweet tooth and make a lasting impression!

Perfect for:

• Holiday gatherings
• Birthday parties
• Dessert tables
• Red velvet lovers
• Gift-giving

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Brownies

Here’s why Red Velvet Brownies will become your go-to dessert:

• Rich and Fudgy Texture: These brownies are dense and moist, giving you the perfect balance of gooey and cakey in each bite.
• Classic Red Velvet Flavor: The mild cocoa flavor, combined with buttermilk and a touch of vinegar, creates that signature red velvet taste.
• Cheesecake Swirl: A creamy cheesecake swirl adds a tangy contrast to the sweet brownies, elevating the flavor and texture.
• Visually Striking: The vibrant red color of the brownies makes them an eye-catching treat, perfect for special occasions.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires basic ingredients, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Chilling Time (Optional): 1 hour
• Servings: 16-20 brownies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-220 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make Red Velvet Brownies:

For the Brownie Batter:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring (or more for a deeper red color)

For the Cheesecake Swirl:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Highlights

• Red Food Coloring: Red velvet’s signature color comes from food coloring, which gives the brownies their vibrant red hue.
• Buttermilk: The tanginess of buttermilk helps achieve the slightly tangy flavor that red velvet is known for while contributing to the brownies’ moist texture.
• Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds the rich chocolate flavor that perfectly complements the red velvet.
• Cream Cheese: The cream cheese swirl provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the rich brownies, making each bite a delightful balance of flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Red Velvet Brownies:

Make the Brownie Batter:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, buttermilk, vinegar, and food coloring until the batter is smooth and the color is evenly distributed.
4. Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the brownies.
5. Transfer to Pan: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to the edges.

Make the Cheesecake Swirl:

6. Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
7. Swirl the Cheesecake Mixture: Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture on top of the brownie batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cheesecake mixture into the brownie batter to create a marbled effect.

Bake and Cool:

8. Bake: Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). The brownies should be firm around the edges but slightly soft in the center.
9. Cool: Let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. For cleaner slices, refrigerate the brownies for about 1 hour before cutting into squares.

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies

Red Velvet Brownies are a versatile treat that can be served in various ways:

• For Special Occasions: Serve these brownies at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or any special event for a striking and delicious dessert.
• With Ice Cream: Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla or cream cheese ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• As a Gift: Cut the brownies into squares, wrap them in decorative parchment paper or gift boxes, and give them as homemade gifts.
• With Coffee or Milk: Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a comforting dessert.
• For a Dessert Table: These brownies make a fantastic addition to a dessert buffet or party spread.

Additional Tips for Red Velvet Brownies

Here are some tips to ensure your Red Velvet Brownies turn out perfectly:

• Do Not Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in dense or dry brownies, so mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use Gel or Liquid Food Coloring: For the most vibrant color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid food coloring.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs (not wet batter), they’re ready.
• Chill for Cleaner Slices: If you want clean, neat slices, let the brownies cool in the refrigerator for 1 hour before cutting.
• Substitute for Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, substitute it with regular milk and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar.

Recipe Variations for Red Velvet Brownies

Here are 10 variations you can try for Red Velvet Brownies:

• Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies: Add more cheesecake mixture or a thicker swirl for a richer, creamier texture.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Top the cooled brownies with a layer of cream cheese frosting for extra sweetness and flavor.
• Dark Chocolate Red Velvet Brownies: Use dark cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the red velvet.
• White Chocolate Chips: Stir white chocolate chips into the brownie batter for added sweetness and a creamy texture.
• Peppermint Red Velvet Brownies: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the brownie batter for a festive twist.
• Nutty Red Velvet Brownies: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the brownie batter for a crunchy texture contrast.
• Strawberry Red Velvet Brownies: Swirl in some strawberry jam along with the cheesecake mixture for a fruity variation.
• Gluten-Free Red Velvet Brownies: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.
• Red Velvet Brownie Bites: Roll the brownie batter and cheesecake mixture into small, bite-sized balls and bake them for a fun and portable treat.
• Red Velvet Brownie Cake: Bake the batter in a larger pan and top with whipped cream or frosting for a red velvet brownie cake.

Freezing and Storage for Red Velvet Brownies

• Freezing: To freeze, cut the brownies into squares and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Special Equipment for Red Velvet Brownies

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Red Velvet Brownies easier:

• Mixing Bowls: A variety of sizes for mixing the dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Electric Mixer: To easily beat the cream cheese and sugar for the cheesecake swirl.
• 9×9-inch Baking Pan: A square pan is perfect for these brownies, providing even baking and easy slicing.
• Parchment Paper: Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
• Wire Rack: A cooling rack allows the brownies to cool evenly, preventing them from becoming soggy.
• Toothpicks or Skewers: Use these to swirl the cheesecake mixture into the brownie batter.

Frequently Asked Questions for Red Velvet Brownies

1. Can I use a different type of food coloring?
   Yes, you can use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red color, or adjust the amount to your preference.
2. Can I make these brownies without the cheesecake swirl?
   Yes, simply omit the cheesecake swirl for a traditional red velvet brownie.
3. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
   Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar.
4. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make these brownies ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
5. Can I add nuts to the brownies?
   Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition to the batter if you prefer a bit of crunch.

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Conclusion

Red Velvet Brownies are a delicious and visually stunning treat that combine the rich, chocolatey flavor of fudgy brownies with the signature taste and vibrant color of red velvet cake. The creamy cheesecake swirl adds a tangy, decadent touch, making these brownies absolutely irresistible. Perfect for special occasions, festive gatherings, or simply treating yourself, these brownies are guaranteed to impress with every bite.

This recipe is as fun to bake as it is to eat, making it a great choice for everything from casual baking days to elegant dessert spreads. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them solo, these red velvet brownies are sure to delight.

I’d love to see how your Red Velvet Brownies turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!