What makes red velvet brownies different from regular brownies?

Red velvet brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of traditional brownies with the tangy flavor and vibrant color of red velvet cake. Unlike regular brownies, they include ingredients like cocoa powder, vinegar, and red food coloring to create that signature red hue and slight tang. They are often topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting, adding a creamy contrast that sets them apart from standard brownies.

Why is vinegar added to red velvet brownie recipes?

Vinegar plays an important role in red velvet brownies by reacting with the baking soda to help the batter rise and develop a tender texture. It also enhances the classic tangy flavor unique to red velvet desserts. Without vinegar, the brownies might miss the characteristic balance of sweet and slightly acidic notes that define red velvet.

Can I use liquid red food coloring instead of gel food coloring for red velvet brownies?

Gel food coloring is recommended for red velvet brownies because it provides a more vibrant and concentrated color without adding extra liquid to the batter. Liquid food coloring tends to be weaker and can dilute the batter’s consistency, resulting in a less bright color and potentially affecting the texture.

How should I store red velvet brownies with cream cheese frosting to keep them fresh?

To keep red velvet brownies with cream cheese frosting fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This prevents the frosting from spoiling and helps maintain the brownies' moist texture. Properly refrigerated, they will stay good for up to five days. Before serving, you can bring them to room temperature for a softer texture.

How can I make smooth cream cheese frosting for red velvet brownies?

For smooth cream cheese frosting, use both the cream cheese and butter at room temperature before mixing. Beat them together with an electric mixer until fully combined and creamy, which helps avoid lumps. Adding powdered sugar gradually and mixing well will create a silky texture perfect for spreading evenly over the brownies.

Red Velvet Brownies Recipe For Rich Moist Chocolate Treats

Name: Red Velvet Brownies
Prep time: 1 h 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 85g unsalted butter; 200g granulated sugar; 55g light brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 large egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 72g vegetable oil (80ml); 25g Dutch-processed cocoa powder; 90g all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon vinegar (white wine or regular white); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon red gel food coloring; ¾ cup white chocolate chips (optional); 114g cream cheese; 85g unsalted butter; 480g powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Description

🍫 Experience the perfect fusion of classic red velvet and rich brownie in one decadent treat that delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home
🍰 Indulge in moist, fudgy brownies with vibrant red color and luxurious cream cheese frosting that will impress any chocolate lover

Ingredients

Scale

85g unsalted butter

200g granulated sugar

55g light brown sugar

3 large eggs

1 large egg yolk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

72g vegetable oil (80ml)

25g Dutch-processed cocoa powder

90g all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon vinegar (white wine or regular white)

1 tablespoon cornstarch

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon red gel food coloring

¾ cup white chocolate chips (optional)

114g cream cheese

85g unsalted butter

480g powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1-Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C, 160°C fan-assisted) and line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper.

2-Melt the butter completely in short increments.

3-Combine melted butter with granulated and light brown sugar; whisk to combine.

4-Add eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla extract; mix gently without incorporating air.

5-Stir in vegetable oil and cocoa powder until combined without whisking in air.

6-Mix a few tablespoons of batter with red gel food coloring until smooth, then add back to main batter and combine thoroughly.

7-Fold in the dry ingredients flour, cornstarch, and salt using a spatula or wooden spoon until smooth and lump-free.

8-Stir in the vinegar thoroughly.

9-Fold in white chocolate chips if using.

10-Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with moist crumbs.

11-Cool completely before frosting.

Notes

🎂 Use precise measurements with a kitchen scale to achieve fudgy texture – too much flour will make the brownies cakey
🍯 Dutch-processed cocoa powder enhances chocolate flavor for a richer taste experience
❄️ Refrigerate frosted brownies in an airtight container for up to five days; unfrosted brownies can be stored tightly wrapped at room temperature

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 brownie
Calories: 367
Sugar: 51g
Sodium: 149mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0.4g
Carbohydrates: 57g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Red Velvet Brownies, Chocolate Brownies, Cream Cheese Frosting, Rich Dessert