If you have a soft spot for red velvet treats and you love the fudgy, chocolatey goodness of brownies, then this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is going to be your new obsession. These brownies bring together the vibrant red color and subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet cake with the dense, chewy texture of classic brownies. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet, colorful indulgence at home, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a dessert that’s both stunning and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of everyday ingredients is all it takes to whip up these irresistible red velvet brownies. Each component plays its part in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and stunning color that makes this recipe so memorable.
- Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup melted: Provides a rich, creamy base that helps create that chewy brownie texture.
- Granulated sugar, 1 cup: Sweetens the batter perfectly without overpowering the cocoa.
- Large eggs, 2: Adds structure and moisture, helping the brownies set just right.
- Vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, comforting notes.
- Red food coloring, 1 tablespoon: The star ingredient for that iconic red velvet hue that makes these brownies pop.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 cup: Injects a subtle chocolate flavor that deepens the red velvet experience.
- All-purpose flour, 3/4 cup: Builds the structure while keeping the brownies tender.
- Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
- White vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon: Reacts with baking components to keep the brownies moist and soft.
- White chocolate chips, 1/2 cup (optional): Adds pockets of creamy sweetness that complement the cocoa and red velvet flavors.
How to Make Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple prep sets the stage for perfectly baked brownies.
Step 2: Combine Butter and Sugar
In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This step ensures your brownies will have that signature fudgy sweetness from the very beginning.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Beat the eggs in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and bold red food coloring. These ingredients infuse the batter with flavor and the beautiful red velvet color that makes this recipe so special.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Sifting aerates the mixture and helps avoid any lumps, ensuring an even crumb in your brownies.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients just until combined. This keeps the batter tender and avoids overmixing, which can make brownies tough. Then stir in the white vinegar and fold in the white chocolate chips if you’re using them, for those delightful little bursts of sweetness.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, so your brownies stay perfectly fudgy.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing. This cooling time lets them set up nicely, making cutting clean squares a joy rather than a challenge.
How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Red Velvet Brownies Recipe, consider topping with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for extra sweetness and eye appeal. Fresh raspberries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts make wonderful finishing touches, adding texture and brightness.
Side Dishes
Serving these brownies alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. A cup of hot coffee or rich hot chocolate also pairs beautifully, making your dessert experience even cozier.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve your brownies cut into bite-sized squares arranged on a colorful platter for parties. You can also layer them in a trifle dish with cream cheese frosting and fresh berries to turn this simple Red Velvet Brownies Recipe into an elegant layered dessert that wows guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their moist texture, so you can enjoy freshly baked flavor any time.
Freezing
If you want to keep your brownies for longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
For warm brownie goodness, reheat slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or until just warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep that perfect fudgy consistency intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of food coloring?
Absolutely! If you prefer natural options, beet juice or powdered freeze-dried strawberries can offer a lovely red tint, though the color might be subtler compared to traditional red food coloring.
What if I don’t have white vinegar?
You can substitute apple cider vinegar or lemon juice in the same amount. They will still create the chemical reaction needed for that classic red velvet texture without altering the flavor noticeably.
Can I make this recipe without white chocolate chips?
Yes! The white chocolate chips are optional, but they add a creamy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the cocoa. Feel free to swap in dark chocolate chips or omit altogether if you prefer.
How do I check when the brownies are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center — it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures your brownies remain soft and fudgy instead of dry.
Can I add a cream cheese swirl?
Definitely! Swirling a bit of sweetened cream cheese into the batter before baking adds a tangy richness and beautiful marbled effect that takes these Red Velvet Brownies Recipe treats to the next level.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to bake this delightful Red Velvet Brownies Recipe. It’s a fantastic way to bring classic red velvet charm into a fudgy brownie with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether for a holiday, a birthday, or any day you deserve a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire. Grab your ingredients, get cozy in the kitchen, and enjoy every bite of these gorgeous, luscious brownies!
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Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, chocolaty flavor of traditional brownies with the vibrant color and subtle tang of red velvet cake, making for an irresistible and festive dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Then incorporate the vanilla extract and red food coloring, mixing until evenly blended.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt to avoid lumps and ensure an even distribution.
- Fold Dry into Wet: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix which could make the brownies tough.
- Add Vinegar and Chocolate Chips: Stir in the white vinegar, which enhances the red velvet flavor, and fold in white chocolate chips if using for an extra sweet touch.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 9 squares. Cooling ensures clean slices and the best texture.
Notes
- For a marbled cheesecake version, swirl 4 oz of sweetened cream cheese into the batter before baking for a creamy contrast.
- You can substitute dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor instead of white chocolate chips.
