How to Make Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

If you’ve ever wondered how to achieve that perfect balance of rich chocolate and luscious cream cheese with a vibrant twist, let me introduce you to How to Make Red Velvet Brownies Recipe. This delightful treat marries the classic deep red hue and subtle cocoa flavor of red velvet with the fudgy, chewy goodness of brownies. Every bite feels like a warm hug, with silky cream cheese swirls swirling throughout for a dreamy, tangy contrast. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for special occasions or just to brighten up an ordinary day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe thrives on a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering the texture, flavor, and that unmistakable shade of red velvet. From buttery richness to the tangy cream cheese layer, every component contributes to making these brownies truly irresistible.

• Unsalted butter (150 g): Softened to room temperature for smooth mixing and that rich, buttery base.
• Caster sugar (275 g for brownie base): Adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp for batter, 1 tsp for cream cheese layer): Brings warmth and depth to the flavors.
• Red food colouring (1 tsp, gel recommended): Imparts the signature vibrant red color that makes red velvet so special.
• Medium eggs (4, room temperature): Essential for binding and moisture without weighing the brownies down.
• Cocoa powder (30 g, preferably unsweetened Dutch-processed): Offers the subtle chocolate note distinctive to red velvet.
• Plain all-purpose flour (125 g, sifted): Provides structure without heaviness.
• White wine vinegar (1 tsp): Reacts to enhance the red color and balances flavors with a slight tang.
• Full-fat cream cheese (250 g, room temperature): Creates the luscious, creamy swirl that lifts these brownies to perfection.
• Caster sugar (75 g for cream cheese): Sweetens the cheesecake layer just enough without overpowering.
• Egg yolk (1): Adds richness and helps the cream cheese hold its silky texture.

How to Make How to Make Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Baking Tin

Before you dive into mixing, preheat your oven to 180°C conventional or 160°C fan setting and line a 9×9-inch square baking tin with parchment paper. Make sure the parchment fully covers the base and sides for easy removal later, so you end up with perfectly shaped brownies that lift right out without sticking or breaking.

Step 2: Creaming Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the softened unsalted butter and 275 g caster sugar together using an electric mixer. The goal here is to achieve a smooth, creamy, and light-colored mixture. This process not only dissolves the sugar but also incorporates air, giving the brownies a lighter texture that melts in your mouth.

Step 3: Adding Vanilla and Red Food Colouring

Next, mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of gel red food colouring. Stir thoroughly until you have a thinner paste that is uniformly red, ensuring every bite bursts with that classic red velvet appeal.

Step 4: Incorporating the Eggs

Break in the 4 medium eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. This step emulsifies the batter, maintaining a smooth and consistent texture essential for those fudgy, rich brownies we all crave.

Step 5: Combining Dry Ingredients

Sift together 30 grams of cocoa powder and 125 grams of plain flour to avoid lumps and then gently fold this mixture into your wet batter. Be careful not to overmix as you want to keep the brownies tender and chewy instead of dense.

Step 6: Adding White Wine Vinegar

Stir in 1 teaspoon of white wine vinegar. You might notice a slight fizz – this reaction is key to enhancing the red hue and giving the brownies a subtle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Step 7: Preparing the Cream Cheese Layer

In a separate bowl, beat together 250 grams of full-fat cream cheese, 75 grams of caster sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and free of lumps. Then, add 1 egg yolk and mix briefly until the mixture is velvety and ready to swirl in.

Step 8: Layering the Batter and Cream Cheese

Pour about 90% of the brownie batter into your prepared tin, spreading it evenly. Then dollop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top, followed by the remaining 10% of the brownie batter scattered in small spots over the cream cheese. This layering is crucial for that beautiful marbled effect that makes this recipe extra special visually and in taste.

Step 9: Creating the Marbled Swirl

Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the brownie and cream cheese layers together. Keep your swirls gentle—too much blending will muddy the aesthetics and flavor contrast. You want lovely, distinct layers that both look and taste wonderful.

Step 10: Baking and Cooling

Bake your creation for 28 to 35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges with a few moist crumbs, which means they are perfectly fudgy. Allow the brownies to cool in the tin for 20 to 30 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely—about 2 hours. Then slice into 16 generous squares to share and enjoy.

How to Serve How to Make Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your red velvet brownies, sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar or edible glitter for a festive look. Fresh berries like raspberries add a tart brightness, while a light drizzle of white chocolate ganache enhances the creaminess.

Side Dishes

Pair these rich brownies with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or lightly whipped cream to balance the density. A hot cup of coffee or tea makes a perfect companion to the moist and flavorful bites.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, cut brownies into bite-sized cubes and skewer them with fresh fruit for an interactive dessert platter. Alternatively, layer cubes in clear glasses with whipped cream for elegant dessert parfaits that showcase those stunning red and cream swirls.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover red velvet brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This preserves their moist texture and vibrant flavors without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture before serving, allowing you to enjoy this treat anytime without starting from scratch.

Reheating

Warm brownies gently in a microwave for about 15 seconds to revive their soft, gooey charm. Avoid overheating, which can dry them out. Served warm, their flavors and cream cheese swirls feel absolutely heavenly.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?

Yes, you can use regular cocoa powder, but Dutch-processed cocoa gives red velvet brownies a milder, smoother chocolate flavor and helps maintain the red color better.

Is it necessary to use white wine vinegar?

White wine vinegar helps enhance the characteristic tang and the red color in these brownies, but if needed, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice with slightly different results.

How do I make sure the cream cheese layer doesn’t crack?

Using room temperature cream cheese and beating it smoothly before mixing in the egg yolk helps prevent cracks. Also, avoid overbaking to maintain creamy texture.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup, and ensure the blend includes xanthan gum for structure.

What’s the best way to cut these brownies evenly?

Use a sharp knife warmed with hot water, wiped dry before slicing. This prevents sticking and gives you clean, neat edges every time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that’s both stunning and comforting, How to Make Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is your answer. With its perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and that irresistible marbled texture, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen. Don’t wait for a special occasion—treat yourself and your friends to these luscious delights today!

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