Red Velvet Brownies – SouthernRambles

Red velvet brownies combine the rich, fudgy depth of classic chocolate brownies with the signature color and subtle tang of red velvet cake. Finished with a smooth cream cheese frosting, they deliver a balanced dessert that feels both indulgent and elegant. Perfect for celebrations or everyday treats, these brownies offer striking presentation and irresistible flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fudgy Yet Light Texture – Cocoa powder and balanced leavening create brownies that are dense without being heavy.
Classic Red Velvet Flavor – Gentle cocoa notes paired with vanilla and tangy frosting define the signature taste.
Beautiful Presentation – Vibrant red color with creamy white frosting makes them visually stunning.
Simple Pantry Ingredients – Uses common baking staples for easy preparation.
Perfect for Celebrations – Ideal for holidays, parties, or gifting.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Stores well and tastes even better after resting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Brownies

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Provides richness and moisture for a tender crumb.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens and contributes to the glossy brownie texture.
2 large eggs – Bind the batter and add structure.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor depth.
1 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the base structure of the brownies.
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Supplies deep chocolate flavor and color contrast.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Adds slight lift for a soft, tender bite.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and intensifies chocolate notes.
1 tablespoon red food coloring – Creates the iconic red velvet appearance.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

4 ounces cream cheese, softened – Provides tangy creaminess and smooth texture.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and spreadable consistency.
1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens while keeping frosting silky.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the frosting’s flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and prepare the pan – Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment for easy removal.

Mix the wet ingredients – Whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth, then add eggs and vanilla, mixing until glossy and well combined.

Combine the dry ingredients – Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to remove lumps and ensure even distribution.

Create the batter – Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, then stir in red food coloring until evenly tinted.

Bake until just set – Spread batter evenly in the pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick shows a few moist crumbs for fudgy texture.

Cool completely – Let brownies rest in the pan for about 30 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool fully before frosting.

Prepare the frosting – Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy and spreadable.

Frost and slice – Spread frosting evenly over cooled brownies, then cut into neat squares for serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Do Not Overbake – Slightly underbaked centers ensure fudgy brownies rather than dry cake-like texture.
Use Gel Food Coloring for Vibrancy – Produces deeper color without thinning the batter.
Cool Before Frosting – Prevents melting and keeps frosting smooth.
Sift Cocoa and Flour – Avoids lumps and improves texture.
Chill Before Cutting for Clean Edges – Firms the frosting and crumb.
Balance Sweetness with Salt – A small pinch enhances chocolate complexity.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes (plus cooling)
Servings: 9–12 brownies
Calories: Approximately 220–280 per brownie, depending on portion size

Perfect Pairings

Cold milk – Classic complement to rich chocolate desserts.
Fresh raspberries or strawberries – Add brightness and acidity.
Hot coffee or espresso – Enhances cocoa depth.
Vanilla ice cream – Creates a decadent plated dessert.

Ideal Occasions

Valentine’s Day or anniversaries – Romantic color and flavor theme.
Holiday dessert tables – Visually striking addition.
Bake sales or gifting – Easy to portion and package.
Weekend baking projects – Simple yet impressive treat.

Storage & Serving Tips

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator – Keeps fresh for up to 4 days.
Bring to room temperature before serving – Restores soft texture and full flavor.
Freeze unfrosted brownies for longer storage – Up to 2 months when wrapped well.
Cut with a warm knife – Produces clean, professional edges.

Creative Variations to Try

White chocolate chips in the batter – Add creamy sweetness and contrast.
Chocolate ganache topping instead of frosting – Creates a richer finish.
Swirled cheesecake layer – Enhances tang and visual appeal.
Gluten-free flour substitute – Makes the recipe accessible to more diets.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dry brownies – Reduce baking time slightly and check earlier.
Dense or tough texture – Avoid overmixing once flour is added.
Frosting too soft – Chill briefly to firm before spreading.
Color not vibrant – Use concentrated gel coloring or increase slightly.

Why This Recipe Works

The balance of melted butter, sugar, and eggs creates a tender, fudgy crumb typical of brownies, while cocoa powder provides structured chocolate flavor without heaviness. A small amount of baking powder introduces lift so the texture sits between brownie and cake—hallmark of red velvet desserts. Tangy cream cheese frosting contrasts the sweetness and richness, producing a harmonious bite that feels indulgent yet portion-controlled within a moderate calorie range.

Final Thoughts

Red velvet brownies deliver the elegance of red velvet cake in an easier, more snackable form. Their vibrant color, balanced sweetness, and creamy frosting make them perfect for celebrations or simple indulgence. With adaptable ingredients and manageable portions, this recipe offers a satisfying dessert that can be enjoyed mindfully without sacrificing flavor or presentation.