Dessert

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Name: Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491255H20M50S
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¼ cups (155g) all-purpose flour; ¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel); ¼ tsp salt; 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted; ½ tsp vanilla extract

ByGabriel Langdon January 10, 2026January 10, 2026

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Introduction

Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting combine the rich, chocolaty flavor of brownies with the iconic tangy sweetness of red velvet cake. This vibrant dessert is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want a show-stopping treat that’s easy to make at home.

The image shows a close-up of square pieces of red velvet cake with two clear layers. The bottom layer is thick and dark red with a soft, moist texture. The top layer is creamy white frosting, smooth and evenly spread, about one-third the height of the cake. Red crumbs are sprinkled lightly on top of the frosting, adding a touch of color and texture. The background is a white marbled surface, softly blurred to keep attention on the cake pieces. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 ¼ cups (155g) all-purpose flour
¼ cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel)
¼ tsp salt
4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, stir the melted butter and granulated sugar until fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until the mixture is a uniform red shade.
Step 4: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
Step 6: While the brownies cool, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
Step 7: Once cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the brownies. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan, slice into squares, and serve.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead of natural cocoa.
Swap red food coloring with beet juice powder for a natural alternative.
Add ½ cup of white chocolate chips to the batter for extra sweetness.
Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the frosting.

Storage

Store the frosted brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften the frosting. You can also freeze unfrosted brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months; thaw and frost just before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up image of square pieces of red velvet cake with two layers, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is thick and dark red with a soft, moist texture. The top layer is a smooth, creamy white frosting, evenly spread and slightly raised above the cake. Small red crumbs are scattered on top of the frosting and around the pieces. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different pan size?

An 8×8-inch pan is ideal for this recipe to get the right thickness. If using a larger pan, expect thinner brownies and reduce baking time accordingly; a smaller pan will require longer baking.

What if I don’t have red food coloring?

You can omit the red food coloring entirely and still enjoy delicious chocolate brownies, though they won’t have the classic red velvet color. Alternatively, natural beet powder can add color without artificial dyes.