Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

If you’ve ever tasted Red Velvet Brownies, you know why they have such a loyal following. These vibrant squares combine everything people adore about classic red velvet with the rich chewiness of brownies, creating a dessert experience that’s equal parts decadent, eye-catching, and truly memorable. With their signature deep red hue and that perfect crackly top, Red Velvet Brownies are the kind of treat you’ll want to whip up for celebrations, cozy evenings in, or as a surprising sweet for friends who think they’ve tried it all.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Red Velvet Brownies couldn’t be easier, and each one plays a starring role in building the flavor, texture, and bold color we love. Don’t skimp or swap if you want that classic, crowd-pleasing result!

• Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, melted): Adds richness and makes the brownies ultra-moist and fudgy.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Not only sweetens, but helps create that crave-worthy shiny top.
• Large Eggs (2): Bind the batter together for structure and contribute to that classic brownie chew.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Balances the flavors and brings delicious depth.
• Red Food Coloring (1 tablespoon): The secret to their iconic vibrant look—it’s not Red Velvet without it!
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (1/4 cup): Gives that signature hint of chocolate you expect in red velvet treats.
• All-Purpose Flour (3/4 cup): Just enough to give lift without making the brownies cakey.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A little salt sharpens the flavor and keeps the sweetness balanced.
• White Vinegar (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the batter’s tang and enhances the red color.
• White Chocolate Chips or Cream Cheese Frosting (1/2 cup, optional): For a dreamy finishing touch—choose chips for texture or frosting for that classic red velvet pairing.

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, letting the sides hang over for easy lifting later. This not only keeps your brownies from sticking but also helps them bake evenly—plus, cleanup is a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is glossy and well combined. This step is crucial for that irresistible shiny top you see on bakery-worthy Red Velvet Brownies.

Step 3: Whisk in Eggs, Vanilla, Color, and Vinegar

Add the two eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and white vinegar to your butter-sugar base. Whisk everything together until the batter is smooth and the color is evenly distributed. Don’t skip the vinegar—it brightens the flavor and helps set that deep red shade that makes red velvet so iconic.

Step 4: Sift and Fold the Dry Ingredients

Sift in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt directly into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; stopping as soon as no streaks of flour remain will keep your brownies soft and fudgy.

Step 5: Pour, Bake, and Test for Doneness

Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25–28 minutes. You’re looking for a toothpick or tester to come out with moist crumbs—not wet batter—so start checking at the 25-minute mark. The edges should be set, and the center may look just a touch soft (fudgy perfection in the making!).

Step 6: Cool and Top Your Brownies

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan for clean, neat slices. If you’re in the mood for extra indulgence, sprinkle with white chocolate chips while still a bit warm or drizzle with cream cheese frosting after they’ve cooled. Classic Red Velvet Brownies are delicious as-is, but a decadent topping really takes them over the top!

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies

Garnishes

For an upscale finish, dust the tops of your brownies with powdered sugar or drizzle with a generous zigzag of cream cheese frosting. A scatter of white chocolate chips or pretty red and white sprinkles will make your Red Velvet Brownies look bakery-fresh and totally irresistible on any dessert tray.

Side Dishes

Pair your Red Velvet Brownies with a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream or a dollop of homemade whipped cream for the ultimate treat. Fresh berries—especially strawberries or raspberries—provide a tangy contrast to the fudgy richness, while a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk makes each bite even better.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests? Cut your Red Velvet Brownies into bite-size squares for brownie “bites,” or use a small cookie cutter to turn them into hearts for Valentine’s Day. Stack them in layers with cream cheese frosting for a playful brownie “cake,” or wrap individual pieces in parchment with a ribbon for sweet take-home favors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Thanks to their fudgy texture, Red Velvet Brownies keep beautifully. Place any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They’ll stay moist and chewy, perfect for snacking whenever your sweet tooth strikes.

Freezing

Want to make a batch ahead of time? You can freeze your Red Velvet Brownies! Wrap each square in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked magic, pop a brownie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The chocolate chips will get melty, and the brownie will taste freshly made. Warm brownies are especially dreamy with ice cream or a swirl of frosting on top!

FAQs

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Keep an eye on your baking time—it will likely need an extra 5-10 minutes, but still check for those telltale moist crumbs on your tester.

Why do Red Velvet Brownies need vinegar?

The vinegar boosts the tangy flavor that’s a hallmark of classic red velvet desserts. It also reacts with the cocoa powder and baking ingredients to intensify the red color, so don’t skip it!

Can I use natural food coloring instead of artificial?

Natural red food colorings are fine, but keep in mind they may produce a more muted color compared to traditional liquid red food dye. For the deepest, most vivid red, stick with the classic kind.

How can I make these brownies extra fudgy?

Underbake the brownies by a minute or two and chill them before slicing. This will give you an ultra-dense, gooey texture that’s every chocoholic’s dream.

What’s the best way to cut Red Velvet Brownies cleanly?

Let the brownies cool completely, then use a sharp knife cleaned with warm water between cuts. Lining your pan with parchment also helps you lift out the whole slab for perfect squares, every time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s a breeze to make and impossible to resist, these Red Velvet Brownies truly deliver. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch—you might just find you’ve discovered your new dessert obsession!

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