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To make the perfect red velvet brownies, you need a few key ingredients: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled - 2 large eggs, at room temperature - 1 tablespoon red food coloring - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract These ingredients create a rich and soft brownie base. The red food coloring gives it a unique look and flavor. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich touch to the brownies. You will need: - 4 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature - 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted for smoothness - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 tablespoon milk (optional, to adjust consistency) This frosting is creamy and smooth, perfectly balancing the brownie’s sweetness. For an extra treat, consider these optional ingredients: - 1/2 cup chocolate chips Adding chocolate chips makes the brownies even more indulgent. You can mix them in before baking for delightful pockets of chocolate. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, grab an 8x8 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the sides. This helps lift the brownies out later. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Make sure everything mixes well. This blend gives the brownies their rich flavor and texture. In a larger bowl, mix the wet ingredients. Combine 1/2 cup of melted butter, 2 large eggs, 1 tablespoon of red food coloring, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth. This step adds moisture and vibrant color to your brownies. Now, it’s time to combine the ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold them together. Be careful not to overmix. If you want a richer taste, fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips. Pour your brownie batter into the prepared dish. Use the spatula to spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. While the brownies bake, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat 4 oz of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of softened butter. Mix until creamy and smooth. This frosting adds a sweet and tangy touch. Once the brownies are baked, remove them from the oven. Let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. After cooling, lift the brownies out using the parchment paper. This makes frosting easier. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top of the brownies. Use a spatula for an even layer. Cut into 16 squares or rectangles for serving. For a nice touch, add a chocolate chip or a sprinkle of cocoa powder on each square. Serve on a stylish platter for a beautiful presentation. To get the best brownie texture, start with room temperature eggs. This helps create a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix when you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can make brownies tough. Instead, fold gently until just combined. You can also add chocolate chips for extra richness, which enhances the taste and texture. For a smooth cream cheese frosting, make sure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. This makes mixing easy and gives a creamy texture. Add powdered sugar slowly to avoid lumps. If your frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk. This will help you reach the desired spreadable consistency. You can boost flavor in your brownies by adding a bit of espresso powder to the dry mix. This enhances the chocolate taste without adding coffee flavor. For a unique twist, try mixing in nuts or dried fruit. These additions can bring new flavors and textures to your brownies. Don't forget to sprinkle some cocoa powder on top for a nice finishing touch! {{image_4}} You can easily make gluten-free red velvet brownies. Just swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that works well in baking. This will keep your brownies soft and chewy. Ensure to check if the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. You can enjoy the same rich flavor without worry. While cream cheese frosting is classic, you can try other frostings too. A rich chocolate ganache adds a deep flavor. To make ganache, heat equal parts cream and chocolate until smooth. You can also use whipped cream for a lighter touch. Simply whip heavy cream with sugar until firm peaks form. Each frosting brings a new taste to your brownies. Mix-ins can enhance your brownies. Try adding chocolate chips or nuts for crunch. You can also mix in dried fruits like cherries or cranberries for a sweet twist. For toppings, consider crushed cookies or sprinkles for fun. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce will add decadence. Get creative with your favorite flavors and textures! To store your red velvet brownies, first, let them cool completely. Once they are cool, cut them into squares. Place the brownies in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, put them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about a week in the fridge. You can freeze the brownies for even longer storage. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap. Then, put them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. For the cream cheese frosting, store it in an airtight container. You can freeze the frosting too, but make sure to thaw it in the fridge before using. When you’re ready to enjoy your brownies, let them thaw first. You can warm them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This will give you that fresh-baked taste. If you prefer, you can also reheat them in the oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the brownies on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5 to 10 minutes. Enjoy your delicious red velvet brownies warm! Yes, you can make these brownies a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld, making them even better! Red velvet brownies last about 3-4 days at room temperature. If you keep them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. Just make sure they are covered well. If you prefer a natural option, use beet juice or pomegranate juice for color. These alternatives give a lovely hue without using artificial coloring. Keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly. You can try almond flour or coconut flour for gluten-free brownies. However, you may need to adjust the liquid in the recipe. Each type of flour has different properties, so results may vary. To check if your brownies are done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Be careful not to overbake, or they can become dry. You now have all the steps needed to make delicious red velvet brownies. We covered key ingredients, easy mixing techniques, and helpful tips for baking. Don't forget to try different variations and storage methods. Experiment with toppings or frostings to make this treat your own. Enjoy this fun baking project, and share it with friends and family. Remember, these brownies are not just tasty; they are a joy to create!

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the deliciousness of Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting! This easy recipe combines rich cocoa flavors and a creamy topping for the ultimate treat. Discover simple steps to create these festive brownies that are perfect for any occasion. Ready to impress your friends and family? Click through for the full recipe and elevate your dessert game with these irresistible brownies that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1 tablespoon red food coloring

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional, for added richness)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 cup powdered sugar, sifted for smoothness

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 tablespoon milk (optional, to adjust consistency)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there’s some overhang on the sides to help lift the brownies out later.

    Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined.

      Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted and cooled butter, eggs, red food coloring, and pure vanilla extract. Mix with a whisk until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.

        Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, using a spatula to gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. If desired, gently fold in the chocolate chips for extra indulgence.

          Bake the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The brownies are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

            Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the brownies are baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and completely smooth.

              Incorporate the Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and fluffy. Stir in the pure vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.

                Cool and Frost: Once the brownies are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. After they are cool, use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies from the pan.

                  Frost and Cut: Spread a generous, even layer of cream cheese frosting over the top of the brownies using a spatula. Once frosted, cut into 16 squares or rectangles for serving.

                    - Presentation Tips: For a beautiful presentation, top each brownie square with a chocolate chip or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. Serve on a stylish platter, and consider garnishing with fresh raspberries or mint leaves for a pop of color.

                      Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 16 pieces