If you’re a fan of rich chocolate flavor with a hint of tang and a luxurious cream cheese swirl, then this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is your perfect dessert match. These brownies are everything you love about traditional brownies, but with the iconic flavor and color of red velvet. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, birthday, or just because you’re craving something decadent, this recipe delivers a treat that looks as good as it tastes.
What Makes This Red Velvet Brownie So Irresistible
This red velvet brownie recipe combines the best of two dessert worlds: the chewy, fudgy texture of classic brownies and the slight cocoa richness and vibrant hue of red velvet cake. The result is a striking dessert that feels special with every bite. A touch of apple cider vinegar and red food coloring gives it that signature red velvet flair, while dark chocolate, light brown sugar, and a smooth cream cheese frosting add depth and balance to every layer.
If you’re curious about trying a new twist on brownies or wondering how to make cake mix into brownies, this recipe will give you a fresh perspective with a homemade touch. It’s a fantastic alternative to the usual and brings a bakery-quality finish to your home baking.
Can You Make Red Velvet Brownies From Cake Mix?
Yes, you absolutely can make red velvet brownies from cake mix, and many home bakers love the convenience. If you’re short on time and want to know how to make brownies out of cake mix or make brownies from cake mix, there are simple tweaks you can follow to achieve a similar fudgy texture. These tips also work well for brownies made with cake mix, and they’re great for beginners or quick desserts. However, if you’re craving that deep, homemade flavor and creamy topping, this from-scratch version of red velvet brownies is worth the extra step.
Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies Twist
One of the most beloved variations of this dessert is red velvet cheesecake brownies, which pairs the richness of red velvet with the tangy smoothness of cream cheese. Our version includes a luscious cream cheese frosting made with cream cheese, butter, and vanilla bean paste for an extra layer of indulgence. It’s a simple addition that transforms these brownies into a show-stopping treat ideal for gifting or entertaining.
These red velvet brownies are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. With bold color, a melt-in-your-mouth texture, and a flavor profile that perfectly balances sweetness and tang, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. So preheat your oven and treat yourself to the magic of homemade red velvet today.
Easy Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Description
Indulge in the perfect dessert with this easy Red Velvet Brownies Recipe. These rich, fudgy brownies are made with dark chocolate and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, creating the ideal balance of flavors. Whether it's for a special occasion or a sweet treat, this Red Velvet Brownies recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients
BROWNIES
CREAM CHEESE FROSTING
Instructions
Get ready to bake:
Turn on your oven and set it to 350°F (180°C).
Lightly coat an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with butter or nonstick spray.
Line the pan with parchment paper, letting some hang over the edges (this makes it easier to take the brownies out later).
Lightly coat the parchment paper with butter or spray, then set the pan aside.
Mix the dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set it aside.
Melt chocolate and butter:
In a large microwave-safe bowl, add the chopped chocolate and butter.
Heat in the microwave at half power (50%) for 30 seconds at a time, stirring after each time, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
(You can also melt it gently on the stove using a double boiler if you prefer.)
Make the brownie batter:
Stir both the granulated sugar and light brown sugar into the melted chocolate mixture.
Add the red food coloring, vanilla, and apple cider vinegar. Mix well.
Stir in the eggs.
Add the dry ingredients you set aside earlier and stir just until everything is combined (don’t overmix).
Bake the brownies:
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly.
Bake for 35–40 minutes. Check with a toothpick — it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Make the frosting:
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
Add powdered sugar, vanilla paste, and a pinch of salt.
Start mixing on low speed for 30 seconds, then switch to high and beat for 2 more minutes.
If the frosting tastes too sweet, you can add a tiny bit more salt (about 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon).
Frost and serve:
Once the brownies are completely cool, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper.
Spread a thick layer of frosting on top.
Cut into squares and enjoy!
Storing leftovers:
Keep leftover brownies in a sealed container. They’ll stay fresh for 1 day at room temperature or up to 3 days in the fridge.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 16
- Amount Per Serving
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 17g27%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Trans Fat 0.5g
- Cholesterol 60mg20%
- Sodium 95mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 34g12%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 26g
- Protein 2.5g5%
- Vitamin A 400 IU
- Vitamin C 20 mg
- Iron 1.1 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
General Tips for Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Use quality chocolate – Good chocolate makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t overmix – Once you add the flour, mix just until you no longer see dry flour. Overmixing can make the brownies dense.
- Use room temperature eggs – This helps them blend better with the warm chocolate mixture.
- Check doneness early – Start checking at 35 minutes; a few moist crumbs on the toothpick means they’re done. Don’t wait until it’s clean or the brownies might be dry.
- Cool completely before frosting – If the brownies are warm, the frosting will melt and slide off.
- Add salt to taste – A small pinch of salt in the frosting helps balance the sweetness.
- Chill for clean cuts – For neat brownie squares, chill the frosted brownies for 30 minutes before slicing.
- Make ahead friendly – You can bake the brownies a day ahead and frost the next day.
- Double for a crowd – Easily double the recipe and use a 9x13-inch pan. Add a few minutes to baking time if needed.
- Store leftovers well – Keep them in an airtight container to stay soft and moist.
