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Fudgy Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

A close-up, sunlit square of moist red velvet brownies topped with thick cream cheese frosting.

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Make these rich, fudgy red velvet brownies with a tangy cream cheese frosting. This easy recipe delivers a gorgeous red color and a decadent texture perfect for any celebration.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon red food coloring (gel preferred)
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
  • 1 tablespoon milk (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until combined.
  3. Whisk in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring until the mixture is a uniform, vibrant red.
  4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Gently stir in the buttermilk until the batter is smooth.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
  8. While the brownies cool, prepare the frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until fluffy. Add the milk one teaspoon at a time until you reach a spreadable consistency.
  9. Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
  10. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

  • For the best fudgy texture, avoid overbaking. The center should remain slightly underdone when you test it.
  • Use gel food coloring for the most intense, vibrant red velvet color without adding too much liquid to the batter.
  • If you prefer a swirl instead of a full frosting layer, reserve half the batter, mix 2 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup powdered sugar, dollop this mixture over the batter in the pan, and swirl gently with a knife before baking.

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