Red Velvet Brownies

“`html

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Sweet Love Affair

Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite desserts: Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting. I first stumbled upon this delightful treat at a friend’s birthday party, and I was immediately smitten. The vibrant red color combined with the creamy frosting was like a celebration for my taste buds! Every bite was a blissful mixture of rich chocolate flavor and that iconic tang of cream cheese. What more could anyone want in a dessert?

This recipe holds a special place in my heart (and my stomach) because it’s so easy to whip up, yet it always feels like a treat for special occasions. You can make it for birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or even just a quiet Sunday afternoon—because let’s be honest, every day deserves a little sweetness, right?

What’s in Red Velvet Brownies?

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture. I recommend going for high-quality butter like Kerrygold if you can find it; it really makes a difference!
• 2 cups white sugar: Sweet, sweet love! This is what helps balance the cocoa and create that delightful fudgy texture.
• 4 large eggs: These little guys help bind everything together while also making sure the brownies are loaded with that wonderful richness.
• 2 tbsp red food coloring: The star of the show, making these brownies pop with their iconic color! I like to use gel food coloring for a more vibrant look.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: A little dash of this adds a lovely aromatic flavor that complements the cocoa beautifully.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: This gives the brownies structure while keeping them soft and chewy.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: The secret ingredient for that heavenly chocolate flavor. Go for unsweetened—it’s essential for controlling the sweetness in the brownies.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps them rise ever so slightly, allowing for that perfect brownie texture.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Just a pinch! Salt brings out the flavors and enhances the sweetness inadvertently.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional): I can’t resist throwing in some chocolate chips for that extra decadence. Feel free to omit them if you want a more classic brownie.

Is Red Velvet Brownies Good for You?

Now, let’s get real for a moment. These brownies are definitely a treat, but let’s see what we’re working with nutritionally. The unsalted butter and sugar provide that rich flavor and delightful texture but are not what you’d call “health food.” However, if you’re looking to indulge, the cocoa powder does have some benefits—it’s rich in antioxidants. Eggs provide protein and healthy fats, which is a plus. The cream cheese frosting? Well, let’s just say it’s more for the soul than the body!

Everything in moderation, right? I usually enjoy these brownies as a special treat rather than an everyday indulgence. They’re perfect for lifting spirits on a tough day or celebrating happy moments with friends and family!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 2 cups white sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tbsp red food coloring
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Milk or cream, as needed to reach desired consistency

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies?

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Trust me; you don’t want them to stick!
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar until well combined.
3. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then whisk in the eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until smooth. Get ready for that beautiful color!
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If desired, stir in the chocolate chips for an extra fudgy texture.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake! Trust your instincts.
8. While the brownies cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
9. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add a little milk or cream to achieve the desired consistency.
10. Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. For a decorative touch, drizzle additional frosting artfully over the brownies.
11. Slice into squares and enjoy the flavor explosion!

Sweet Extras and Serving Suggestions

These brownies are fantastic as-is, but if you want to shake things up, you can add some chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an additional flavor boost. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert combo—talk about indulgent!

Now, don’t forget, these brownies are rich and decadent, making them perfect for celebrations or just to satisfy that sweet tooth. You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, but honestly, good luck keeping them around that long! They’re best enjoyed fresh—and preferably with a cup of coffee or cold glass of milk!

If you whip up a batch, I’d love to hear how they turned out! Your taste buds will dance with joy, and you might even have a few new friends after sharing these delicious brownies! Happy baking!

“`