Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

Red velvet brownies combine the rich, chocolatey goodness of traditional brownies with the unique flavor and vibrant color of red velvet. These decadent treats are perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave something indulgent.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
• For the Cream Cheese Swirl (optional):
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, and whisk until the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients: Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt, and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Stir in the white vinegar, which helps to enhance the red color and balance the flavors.
4. Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): Fold in the chocolate chips for an extra layer of richness and texture.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl (Optional): In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Layer the Batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. If using the cream cheese swirl, drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top of the brownie batter and use a knife to swirl it into the batter for a marbled effect.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Serve them as is, or with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Brownies

• Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring gives a more intense red color without altering the texture of the batter.
• Don’t Overbake: To keep the brownies moist and fudgy, take them out of the oven as soon as the edges are set and the center is slightly undercooked. They will continue to set as they cool.
• Add a Cream Cheese Swirl: For an extra indulgent treat, add a cream cheese swirl on top of the batter before baking.

Variations

• Nutty Red Velvet Brownies: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy twist.
• Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies: Layer the brownie batter with a layer of cheesecake batter for a decadent combination.

Conclusion

Red velvet brownies are a delightful twist on classic brownies, offering a striking color and unique flavor that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these brownies are a rich and satisfying treat that everyone will love.