Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Decadent red velvet brownies topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Ingredients
- ¾ stick ¾ stick (85g) unsalted butter, melted Melted to creamy perfection
- 1 cup 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar Sweetens the dish beautifully
- ¼ cup ¼ cup (55g) light brown sugar Adds a hint of caramel richness
- 3 large 3 large eggs Lends moisture and structure
- 1 large 1 egg yolk For extra richness
- 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract Infuses warmth and flavor
- ⅓ cup ⅓ cup (72g) vegetable oil Ensures a moist texture
- ¼ cup ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder Provides a rich, chocolatey base
- ½ tsp ½ tsp red gel food coloring Gives the signature vibrant hue
- ¾ cup ¾ cup (90g) all-purpose flour Creates a tender crumb
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp cornstarch For added softness
- ¼ tsp ¼ tsp salt Enhances all flavors
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp vinegar Reacting with baking soda for leavening
- ¾ cup ¾ cup optional white chocolate chips For added sweetness
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- 4 oz 4 oz (114g) cream cheese Softened to a velvety spread
- ¾ stick ¾ stick (85g) unsalted butter Softened for smooth blending
- 4 cups 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar Creates a fluffy texture
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter in 30-second intervals until completely melted.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth.
- Add in the eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, stirring gently until thoroughly combined.
- Incorporate the vegetable oil and cocoa powder, stirring until smooth.
- In a small bowl, mix a few tablespoons of the batter with the red food coloring, then fold this back into the main batter.
- Gently fold in the flour, cornstarch, and salt until there are no dry streaks.
- Add the vinegar and stir until fully integrated.
- If using, fold in the white chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Baking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
Frosting
- For the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing at a low speed initially, then increase speed until fluffy.
- Mix in the remaining vanilla extract until fully blended.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled brownies and slice into squares.
Notes
Allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent the icing from melting. Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and frosting.