Fudgy Red velvet brownies are a delightful twist on the classic brownie. I remember the first time I tried these brownies at a friend’s birthday party. The rich, velvety texture combined with that signature red color was simply irresistible. Since then, I have been hooked on making these fudgy treats for every occasion. Today, I want to share my favorite Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies Recipe that will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients for Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies
To get started, gather these ingredients. You might already have some in your pantry.
Brownie Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies
Making these brownies is simple. Follow these steps, and you will have a delicious treat in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for even baking. While the oven is heating, line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift the brownies out later.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. I like to use a whisk for this part. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring. The vibrant color is what makes these brownies stand out.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 4: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, your brownies are ready.
Step 5: Let Them Cool
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial for achieving that fudgy texture.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the brownies are cooling, it’s time to whip up the cream cheese frosting. This frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the rich brownies.
Step 6: Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this step.
Step 7: Add the Sugar and Vanilla
Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract. The frosting should be light and fluffy, perfect for spreading on top of the brownies.
Frosting the Brownies
Now that your brownies are cool, it’s time to frost them. This is the fun part!
Step 8: Spread the Frosting
Using a spatula, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Don’t be shy with the frosting; it adds so much flavor. You can even sprinkle some cocoa powder or red sprinkles on top for an extra touch.
Cutting and Serving the Brownies
After frosting, let the brownies sit for a few minutes to set. Then, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares. I usually cut them into 24 pieces, but you can adjust the size based on your preference.
Storing Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips for Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies
Here are some helpful tips I’ve learned over the years to make the best fudgy brownies:
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer flavor.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps achieve that perfect fudgy texture.
- Adjust the amount of red food coloring based on how vibrant you want the brownies to be.
- For a fun twist, add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking.
Why You’ll Love Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies
These Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies are not just beautiful; they taste amazing too. The rich chocolate flavor combined with the creamy frosting makes them a crowd-pleaser. They are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat after dinner.
I hope you enjoy making these Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies as much as I do. They are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. The combination of the fudgy brownie base and the creamy frosting is simply irresistible. I’d love to hear how your brownies turn out, so feel free to share your experiences in the comments below. Happy