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.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Red Food Coloring: Mix in red food coloring gradually until you reach your desired vibrant red hue characteristic of red velvet.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approx. 2 inch square)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Cream Cheese Swirl, Chocolate Brownies, Fudgy Brownies, Dessert, Baking, Sweet Treat