Best Homemade Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re craving a dessert that combines rich chocolate flavor with a vibrant twist, these red velvet brownies will hit the spot. The best homemade red velvet brownies with creamy cream cheese frosting offer a fudgy texture, beautiful red hue, and a luscious topping that makes every bite unforgettable.

this Recipe

Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll love how the classic red velvet flavor shines through, perfectly balanced by the smooth and tangy cream cheese frosting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fudgy, moist brownies with a vibrant red color and chocolate undertone.
• Easy-to-make cream cheese frosting that’s silky and tangy.
• Perfect balance of sweetness and richness in every bite.
• Great for holidays, parties, or any dessert craving.
• Uses common pantry ingredients with a simple process.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make both the red velvet brownies and the creamy cream cheese frosting.

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

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 12 brownies
• Calories: Approximately 280 per serving

How to Make Best Homemade Red Velvet Brownies with Creamy Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and combined.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and red food coloring, mixing until the batter is evenly colored.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the wet ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, mixing gently until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
6. Remove from oven and allow brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
7. To make the frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and fluffy.
8. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled brownies using an offset spatula or knife.
9. For a finishing touch, sprinkle some leftover red velvet crumbs or cocoa powder on top. Cut into 12 squares and serve.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use room temperature eggs and butter for a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender and fudgy.
• Ensure the brownies are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting.
• Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for richer chocolate flavor.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 teaspoon vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Storage and Reheating

Store your red velvet brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

To enjoy, thaw frozen brownies overnight in the fridge and serve at room temperature. If you prefer warm brownies, gently microwave a single piece for 10-15 seconds, but avoid heating too long to preserve the frosting’s texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these brownies without red food coloring?

Yes, but the signature red velvet appearance will be missing. You can substitute with natural beet powder for color, or simply omit it for a chocolatey brownie flavor.

Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend in equal amounts, and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

How do I get the cream cheese frosting to be smooth and lump-free?

Make sure the cream cheese and butter are fully softened before mixing. Beat them together first until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar to avoid lumps.

Can I bake these brownies in a different pan size?

You can bake in an 8×8-inch pan for thicker brownies but extend the baking time by a few minutes. Keep an eye on the doneness with a toothpick test to avoid overbaking.