As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of melting butter and cocoa dancing in the air, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. It was time for something special: chewy red velvet brownies. These treats aren’t just any ordinary dessert; they’re a celebration in every bite, particularly topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re gearing up for a festive gathering or simply craving a delicious homemade indulgence, these brownies are the perfect solution. Best of all, they can easily be made dairy-free, ensuring that everyone can take part in the joy. Ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and discover the magic of these irresistible red velvet brownies together!

Why Are These Brownies So Special?

Chewy Texture: The brownies strike an irresistible balance between fudgy and chewy, delivering a satisfying bite every time.
Vibrant Red Hue: Their iconic color not only looks beautiful but also brings a festive touch to any occasion.
Creamy Frosting: Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, each bite is a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Adaptable Recipe: Easily switch to a dairy-free version without compromising taste, making them inclusive for many diets!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, they are sure to impress and satisfy all your guests’ sweet cravings.
For another delicious option, try Chicken Alfredo Garlic paired with these treats for a delightful meal that will leave everyone smiling!

Red Velvet Brownie Ingredients

• Get ready to bake the most flavor-packed Red Velvet Brownies you’ll ever taste!

For the Brownies

Butter (¾ cup / 158 g) – Provides richness and moisture; opt for dairy-free butter if you’re making a dairy-free version.
Light Brown Sugar (¾ cup / 150 g) – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; coconut sugar can serve as a healthier alternative.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup / 200 g) – For sweetness and texture; no substitute recommended to maintain the right sweetness level.
Eggs (2) – Provide structure and stability; for a vegan take, consider flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water).
Vanilla Extract (1 tbsp) – Enhances flavor completely; keep this for the best taste.
Liquid Red Food Coloring (½ tsp) – Creates the classic red velvet color; gel food coloring can amplify the vibrancy!
White Vinegar (1½ tsp) – Helps with leavening by reacting with baking soda; apple cider vinegar can be a great alternative.
Cocoa Powder (¼ cup / 22 g) – Infuses a rich cocoa flavor; ensure you use unsweetened for perfect balance.
Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances sweetness and heightens flavor—don’t skip this essential ingredient.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup + 3 tbsp / 148 g) – Forms the structure of the brownies; use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

For Cream Cheese Frosting

Plain Cream Cheese (4 oz) – The base of the frosting; swap for dairy-free cream cheese for a dairy-free option!
Butter (¼ cup / 53 g) – Adds a creaminess; a dairy-free butter can work too if needed.
Powdered Sugar (1½-2 cups / 180 g) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjusting this changes the consistency, so find your sweet spot!
Vanilla Extract (½ tsp) – Boosts flavor; definitely keep this in your frosting mix!
Cornstarch (2 tbsp) – Functions as a thickening agent; it’s optional if using dairy-free cream cheese for better consistency.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s happening, take an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This ensures your chewy red velvet brownies won’t stick, allowing for smooth slicing after baking.

Step 2: Melt and Mix
In a medium bowl, melt ¾ cup of butter until it’s completely liquid. Add in ¾ cup of light brown sugar and 1 cup of granulated sugar, whisking them together until the mixture is smooth and shiny. This rich, glossy mixture will be the base of your chewy red velvet brownies filled with flavor!

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Flavorings
Next, crack in 2 eggs, followed by 1½ teaspoons of white vinegar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of liquid red food coloring. Mix these ingredients vigorously until they are well combined, achieving a vibrant, uniformly colored batter that showcases the signature hue of red velvet.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in ¼ cup of cocoa powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup + 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour into the wet ingredients. Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined—be cautious not to overmix, as we’re aiming for that perfect chewy texture in our red velvet brownies!

Step 5: Pour and Spread
Pour the ready batter into the prepared baking pan, then gently spread it evenly to ensure consistent baking. The pan should be filled to the edges, allowing the brownies to rise beautifully while baking. Take a moment to admire the vivid red color before they head into the oven!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. Start checking around the 30-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out clean, your brownies may need a bit less time; watch carefully for that perfect chewy finish.

Step 7: Cool and Prepare the Frosting
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. While cooling, prepare your cream cheese frosting by beating together 4 oz of plain cream cheese, ¼ cup of butter, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until creamy. Gradually mix in 1½ to 2 cups of powdered sugar until your desired frosting consistency is achieved.

Step 8: Frost and Slice
Allow the chewy red velvet brownies to cool completely before frosting to ensure that the frosting remains intact. Once cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Finally, lift the brownies from the pan using the parchment overhang, slice into squares, and get ready to savor the decadence of each delightful bite!

Red Velvet Brownies Variations

Feel free to put your unique spin on these delectable red velvet brownies and discover exciting new flavors!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives for a deliciously inclusive treat.
This way, your brownies will remain rich and creamy, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delights.
Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, perfect for gluten sensitivities.
Don’t worry—your brownies will still be beautifully chewy and satisfying, allowing everyone to indulge without compromise.
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
The nutty crunch pairs perfectly with the soft, fudgy brownies, making each bite a delightful surprise.
Chocolate Bliss: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips for an intense chocolatey experience that perfectly complements the red velvet flavor.
Melting into the batter as they bake, these chips will create pockets of gooey goodness within the brownies.
Flavor Twists: Mix in 1 teaspoon of orange or almond extract for a refreshing twist on the classic flavor.
These subtle yet vibrant notes can elevate your brownies to a whole new level, inviting a taste sensation like no other.
Cocoa Boost: Increase the cocoa powder to ⅓ cup for a richer cocoa flavor that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.
This slight adjustment can transform the taste, making the brownies even more indulgent and satisfying.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the batter for a hint of warmth that heightens the overall flavor profile.
It’s a subtle addition that can brighten up the sweetness beautifully, creating an experience to remember.
Festive Touch: Top your frosted brownies with holiday sprinkles or crushed candy canes for a fun, seasonal flair.
The pop of color and texture can make these brownies not just delicious but visually stunning at any gathering.

For another delicious option that pairs beautifully with these brownies, check out our Chicken Alfredo Garlic for a comforting meal that will leave everyone satisfied!

Storage Tips for Red Velvet Brownies

Room Temperature: Unfrosted brownies can be stored at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Fridge: For frosted red velvet brownies, store them in the fridge where they will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Ensure they are in a sealed container to avoid absorbing other odors.
Freezer: Brownies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw before frosting and serving.
Reheating: If desired, microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds to warm them up slightly. This enhances their chewy texture and makes the cream cheese frosting a little more decadent!

Make Ahead Options

These chewy red velvet brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients as directed, then store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator—this helps to enhance the flavors while preventing any separation. You can also bake the brownies ahead of time, letting them cool completely before frosting and storing them in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best quality, frost the brownies just before serving to maintain the creaminess of the frosting. With these make-ahead tactics, you can enjoy delicious red velvet brownies any time, without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with Chewy Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These heavenly brownies will be the centerpiece of your dessert table, and pairing them with delightful accompaniments will elevate your experience to new heights.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a burst of freshness, balancing the rich sweetness of the brownies. Their vibrant colors also enhance the visual appeal of your dessert spread.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cool, luscious contrast to the warm brownies. The melt of the ice cream harmonizes beautifully with the rich flavors, making each bite pure bliss.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream can lighten the decadent density of the brownies, creating a delightful texture contrast that makes them even more indulgent.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle rich chocolate sauce over your brownies for an added decadence, amplifying that chocolatey goodness and providing an irresistible visual allure.
Cold Brew Coffee: Pair your dessert with chilled coffee for a refreshing lift. The subtle bitterness perfectly complements the sweetness of the brownies, creating a delightful balance.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing herbal note, making the dessert feel upscale and inviting. Simply place a sprig on top to impress your guests!

Enjoy these cheery synergies as you indulge in your chewy red velvet brownies, making every moment a memorable celebration!

Expert Tips for Red Velvet Brownies

Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is completely melted and slightly cooled before mixing with sugars for a smooth batter.
Baking Precision: Keep an eye on the baking time; underbaking will result in a fudgy texture, while overbaking can lead to dryness.
Mixing Technique: Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture to maintain the chewy texture—overmixing can make them dense.
Frosting Consistency: Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting into the brownies, ensuring a beautiful finish.
Color Adjustment: If using liquid red food coloring, don’t hesitate to adjust the amount for your preferred vibrancy in these red velvet brownies.

Red Velvet Brownies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ingredients for my brownies?
Absolutely! Freshness is key when choosing your ingredients. For butter, pick a high-quality unsalted variety; it should be creamy and evenly colored, with no dark spots. When selecting eggs, opt for those that are farm-fresh, as they contribute not just to the structure but also to flavor. The cocoa powder should be rich and dark, with a pleasant aroma. For food coloring, liquid works, but gel food coloring provides a richer hue—so consider that for a vibrant finish!

How should I store my red velvet brownies, and for how long will they last?
Very! For room temperature storage, unfrosted brownies will remain delicious for up to 3-4 days when kept in an airtight container. If you’ve frosted them, they can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days, but ensure they’re sealed to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other odors in your fridge—nobody wants their dessert to taste like last night’s dinner!

Can I freeze my red velvet brownies, and what’s the best way to do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze your brownies for up to 3 months. Here’s how: First, allow them to cool completely after baking. Then cut them into squares, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. If they’re frosted, do this before frosting!

What are some common issues I might face, and how can I troubleshoot them?
Very! If your brownies come out dry, it’s often due to overbaking; ensure you check them at the 30-minute mark by inserting a toothpick for doneness—look for a few moist crumbs rather than a clean pick. If they’re too fudgy, it could be that you underbaked them; bake a little longer next time. If your frosting is too runny, it may be due to adding too much powdered sugar too quickly—try mixing in smaller amounts until you reach the desired consistency!

Are there dietary considerations to keep in mind with red velvet brownies?
Absolutely! If you’re hosting guests with dietary restrictions, simply swap the ingredients as necessary. For dairy-free brownies, use a dairy-free butter in the batter and substitute cream cheese for a dairy-free option. Additionally, if anyone has nut allergies, be mindful of flour blends that may incorporate nuts; always check labels if using pre-made mixes to ensure they meet everyone’s needs.