Introduction

These Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the classic flavor and vibrant color of red velvet. Topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting, they make an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.

The image shows a close-up of square red velvet cake pieces with a thick layer of smooth, creamy white frosting on top. Each piece is neatly cut, with the deep red, soft, and moist cake layer clearly visible beneath the white frosting. The central piece is lifted, showing the rich, dense texture of the red cake and the even, glossy frosting above it. The cakes rest on a white marbled surface, and the frosting has subtle swirls and soft peaks, giving it a fresh and inviting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3/4 cup (158 g) butter, melted (regular or dairy free)
3/4 cup (150 g) light brown sugar
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon liquid red food coloring
1 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
1/4 cup (22 g) cocoa powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup + 3 tbsp (148 g) all-purpose flour
4 oz plain cream cheese, room temperature (see notes if dairy free)
1/4 cup (53 g) butter, softened (dairy free or regular)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1 1/2 – 2 cups (180 g) powdered sugar (icing sugar)
2 Tablespoons cornstarch (only if dairy free, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8 square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Melt the butter in the microwave or on the stove, then transfer to a medium bowl.
Step 3: Add both sugars to the melted butter and whisk until the mixture forms a thick paste that pulls cleanly away from the bowl.
Step 4: Mix in the eggs, white vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until well combined. Add more food coloring if a deeper red color is desired.
Step 5: Sift in cocoa powder, salt, and flour, then whisk gently until just combined—about one minute.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake for 30-40 minutes. Begin checking at 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter. The top should be crinkly.
Step 8: While the brownies cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
Step 9: Gradually add powdered sugar until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Add cornstarch if using dairy free cream cheese to thicken.
Step 10: Refrigerate the frosting until the brownies are completely cool, then spread evenly over the top. Store as desired.

Tips & Variations

Use high-quality red food coloring for a vibrant color and better flavor.
For a dairy-free version, substitute dairy-free cream cheese and butter, and add cornstarch to the frosting to improve texture.
Do not overbake the brownies to keep them moist and fudgy.
Try adding white chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist.

Storage

Store frosted brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also keep the unfrosted brownies at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days, then frost just before serving. Reheat individual pieces slightly in the microwave for a soft, warm treat.

How to Serve

The image shows square pieces of a red velvet cake with a thick layer of creamy white frosting on top. Each cake slice is a deep red color with a soft, moist texture and is evenly covered with smooth, swirled white frosting. One piece is placed upright in the center, showing the bright red inside layer beneath the thick white frosting. The cakes are arranged on a white marbled surface that contrasts with the rich red and soft white colors of the dessert. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies gluten free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, preferably one that includes xanthan gum for better texture.

What if I don’t have red food coloring?

Without red food coloring, the brownies will be more like chocolate brownies with a slight tang. For natural coloring, try beet juice, but note it may alter the flavor slightly.