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Red Velvet Brownies

Red Velvet Brownies

Experience the rich and fudgy delight of Red Velvet Brownies, blending the smoothness of red velvet cake with dense, chocolatey brownie goodness and a luscious cream cheese swirl. Perfectly moist and tender, these vibrant brownies offer a unique flavor combo and stunning presentation, making them ideal for any occasion or everyday indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons red food coloring (adjust for desired color)

Cream Cheese Swirl

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of your brownies.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined to avoid lumps and distribute flavors uniformly.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy, aerating the batter and ensuring a tender crumb.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract to create a smooth and cohesive batter base.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, taking care not to overmix to avoid tough brownies.
  6. Add Red Food Coloring: Mix in red food coloring gradually until you reach your desired vibrant red hue characteristic of red velvet.
  7. Prepare Cream Cheese Swirl: In a small bowl, blend softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy, forming a luscious tangy layer inside the brownies.
  8. Layer and Swirl: Pour half of the red velvet batter into the prepared pan, dollop half of the cream cheese mixture over it, then add the remaining brownie batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the layers gently, creating an attractive marbled effect.
  9. Bake Until Set: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to maintain the fudgy texture.
  10. Cool and Enjoy: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing, allowing flavors to meld and ensuring clean, easy cutting.

Notes

  • Use unsweetened natural cocoa powder for the best authentic red velvet flavor.
  • Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing for a smooth batter.
  • Fold dry ingredients lightly to prevent tough brownies.
  • Create perfect swirls by gently swirling the cream cheese mixture without fully blending.
  • Start testing for doneness around 28 minutes to avoid overbaking.
  • Allow brownies to cool fully for cleaner slicing and improved texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Swirl, Chocolate Brownies, Fudgy Brownies, Dessert, Baking, Sweet Treat