Craving something rich and decadent? Look no further than this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe. Infused with the classic flavors of red velvet—cocoa, vanilla, and a hint of tang from vinegar—these brownies bring a touch of elegance to your dessert table. Whether you’re a fan of the iconic red velvet cake or simply love a good fudgy brownie, this treat combines the best of both worlds. Perfect for satisfying those intense chocolate cravings, these moist and fudgy squares will delight anyone who takes a bite. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
From the striking red hue that catches your eye to the harmonious blend of flavors, Red Velvet Brownies are a baking triumph. The addition of white chocolate chips or cream cheese frosting takes them to the next level, offering a delightful contrast in texture and taste. Whether you enjoy them as a dessert centerpiece at a gathering or as a sneaky late-night indulgence, these brownies are guaranteed to impress. With just a few pantry staples and a little time, you can create this beautiful, delectable dessert that will have everyone asking for more.
Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and steps, these brownies come together in no time.
- Decadent Flavor: Combines the richness of cocoa with the subtle vanilla and tang of vinegar for a unique taste experience.
- Beautiful Presentation: The striking red color makes these brownies as impressive to look at as they are to eat.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize with white chocolate chips or a creamy layer of frosting.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making your Red Velvet Brownies, organize your kitchen and gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important that your oven is fully preheated before placing the brownies inside, as this promotes even baking. Next, prepare your 8×8-inch baking pan. You can either line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
The essential tools you’ll need include a large mixing bowl, a whisk or handheld mixer, and a spatula for folding in the flour. A good tip is to have your ingredients pre-measured to streamline the baking process. Melt the butter ahead of time and allow it to cool slightly—this will help in mixing the batter without scrambling the eggs. Keeping a clean workspace will enhance your efficiency and make the process more enjoyable.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or cream cheese frosting
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it reaches the right temperature by the time your batter is ready, which is crucial for even and thorough baking.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Whisk these two ingredients until they are nicely blended and the mixture appears smooth. Next, add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and red food coloring. Continue whisking until everything is fully incorporated and you have a vibrant, uniform batter.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
To the wet mixture, gently add the cocoa powder, white vinegar, and salt. Stir to combine, ensuring there are no lumps. Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour using a spatula, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in denser brownies, so fold just until the flour is integrated.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Pour your batter into the prepared 8×8-inch baking pan. For an extra treat, sprinkle white chocolate chips on top if you’re using them. This will give the brownies a sweet, creamy finish.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Place the pan in the preheated oven and allow the brownies to bake for 25-30 minutes. To test if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out mostly clean, they’re ready. Let the brownies cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and protein.
- Vegetables: Although unconventional, incorporating beetroot puree can enhance moisture and maintain the vibrant color naturally.
- Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper can add a warm, spicy kick to your brownies.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure the butter has cooled to room temperature before mixing to prevent cooking the eggs prematurely.
- If the red food coloring is a concern, use a natural alternative or skip it for classic fudgy brownies.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Dust with a bit of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance when presenting to guests.
Tips
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best flavor profile; it makes a significant difference in taste.
- Chilling the brownies for an hour in the fridge after cooling makes them easier to slice.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per brownie
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 70mg
FAQs
Can I make this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but ensure it’s one that’s suitable for baking to maintain texture.
How do I store these brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?
Yes, gel food coloring works fine. Use it sparingly due to its concentrated pigment.
Is it necessary to use vinegar in this recipe?
The vinegar enhances the red color and adds to the flavor profile, but it could be omitted with minimal impact on taste.
Conclusion
This Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is a fusion of classic flavors and modern convenience, resulting in a dessert that’s both easy to make and pleasing to the taste buds. By combining the richness of chocolate with the distinct red velvet tang and texture, these brownies offer something truly special. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try one of the suggested variations, you’re bound to end up with a delightful treat. If you enjoyed this recipe, consider sharing it with friends and family, or leave a comment to let us know your thoughts!
Print
Red Velvet Brownies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is a fusion of classic flavors and modern convenience, resulting in a dessert that’s both easy to make and pleasing to the taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or cream cheese frosting
Instructions
- Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it reaches the right temperature by the time your batter is ready, which is crucial for even and thorough baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Whisk these two ingredients until they are nicely blended and the mixture appears smooth. Next, add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and red food coloring. Continue whisking until everything is fully incorporated and you have a vibrant, uniform batter.
- To the wet mixture, gently add the cocoa powder, white vinegar, and salt. Stir to combine, ensuring there are no lumps. Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour using a spatula, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in denser brownies, so fold just until the flour is integrated.
- Pour your batter into the prepared 8×8-inch baking pan. For an extra treat, sprinkle white chocolate chips on top if you’re using them. This will give the brownies a sweet, creamy finish.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and allow the brownies to bake for 25-30 minutes. To test if they’re done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out mostly clean, they’re ready. Let the brownies cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Protein: 3 g