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Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
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These Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are rich, fudgy, and soft with a perfect balance of cocoa-infused red velvet flavor and creamy, tangy frosting. Ideal for parties, holidays, or indulgent treats, this luscious dessert offers a vibrant color contrast and a crowd-pleasing taste that’s simple to make and customizable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

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Brownie Batter

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons red food coloring
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk (or 1/2 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice/vinegar, rested 5–10 minutes)

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the brownie batter: Melt the unsalted butter and mix it with cocoa powder and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and red food coloring. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, folding gently to create a smooth and vibrant red velvet batter without overmixing.
  2. Bake the brownies: Pour the batter into a greased baking pan lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The brownies should be set but fudgy, not dry.
  3. Make the cream cheese frosting: While the brownies cool, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing continuously until the frosting is creamy, smooth, and spreadable.
  4. Frost and chill: Once the brownies have completely cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Chill the frosted brownies in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the frosting to firm up and the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs and butter for even mixing and a smooth batter.
  • Remove brownies from the oven when a toothpick has moist crumbs to ensure fudgy texture.
  • Use high-quality cream cheese for best frosting texture and flavor.
  • Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and runny frosting.
  • Adding a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar can subtly brighten the red velvet flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Frosting, Fudgy Brownies, Red Velvet Dessert, Gluten-Free Brownies, Holiday Dessert

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/red-velvet-brownies-with-cream-cheese-frosting/