Red Velvet Brownies
To make Red Velvet Brownies, stir together a rich batter, fold in cocoa, cream cheese, and vanilla, and bake only until the middle just sets so the bars stay moist and sliceable. They work because the center stops cooking at the exact point before dry starts winning.
These red velvet brownies fold cocoa and a swirl of cream cheese into a dense, fudgy brownie base with that classic red velvet color and tang. It's a fun twist on a familiar treat.
They're a good dessert for a holiday or a Valentine's Day treat. Don't overbake them — pull them while the center still looks slightly underdone.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup cocoa
- 3/4 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup vanilla
Instructions
- 1Heat the oven to 350°F and line an 8-inch or 9-inch pan with parchment.
- 2Mix the melted or softened butter with both sugars, then beat in the eggs and vanilla.
- 3Stir in the dry ingredients just until combined.
- 4Fold in the cocoa, cream cheese, and vanilla.
- 5Spread evenly in the pan and bake until the center is just set.
- 6Cool completely before slicing if you want clean bars with edges that still count as edges.
Pro Tips
- Parchment makes lifting and slicing much easier.
- Do not overbake if fudgy is the goal.
- Let the pan cool all the way before cutting if you want nice squares.
Substitutions
Storage Instructions
Store airtight for 4 days at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator.
Make Ahead
These slice best after a full cool-down, so making them ahead helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Red Velvet Brownies ahead of time?
Yes. These slice best after a full cool-down, so making them ahead helps.
How do I store leftover Red Velvet Brownies?
Store airtight for 4 days at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Red Velvet Brownies?
Usually yes. Cool it completely, pack it well, and freeze for up to 2 months if the texture of the dish supports it.
What should I serve with Red Velvet Brownies?
Red Velvet Brownies is great with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if the dessert wants something cold beside it.