If you are a fan of decadent desserts that combine rich chocolate with a vibrant twist, then you are going to adore the Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe. This delightful treat marries the classic fudgy texture of brownies with the luxurious cream cheese frosting and that unmistakable red velvet charm. The result is a stunning, luscious brownie that feels as indulgent as it tastes—perfect for special occasions or whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up. Every bite is a love letter to your taste buds, blending smooth chocolate, a hint of cocoa, and the tangy cream cheese topping that makes these brownies truly unforgettable.

Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is in its simplicity and carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, color, and flavor that sets these brownies apart from the rest.

Unsalted butter (1 cup/2 sticks): Provides richness and a silky smooth base essential for melting the chocolate.
Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Chips (1¾ cups): Delivers a creamy chocolate punch that’s smoother and more flavorful than regular chips.
Large eggs (5, room temperature): Bind the batter while adding moisture and structure.
Granulated sugar (½ cup): Adds sweetness and helps with the brownies’ tenderness.
Packed brown sugar (1¼ cups): Contributes moisture and a subtle molasses flavor for depth.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Vanilla extract (1¼ teaspoons): Adds warm, aromatic notes that complement the chocolate.
Red food coloring gel (2 tablespoons): Gives the brownies their signature vibrant red hue that’s classic red velvet.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides the structure for those dense, fudgy brownies.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps to slightly lift the batter, making brownies tender not dry.
Ghirardelli unsweetened cocoa powder (3 tablespoons): Adds a deep, chocolatey richness with a hint of bitterness to balance sweetness.
Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Essential for the luscious, tangy frosting layered on top.
Unsalted butter (5 tablespoons, room temperature): Works with cream cheese to make the frosting smooth and creamy.
Salt (⅛ teaspoon): A pinch to brighten the frosting flavors.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses the frosting with a comforting sweetness.
Confectioners’ sugar (2–3 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to just the right consistency for spreading.
Heavy cream or milk (1–2 tablespoons): Adjusts frosting thickness for the perfect spreadable texture.

How to Make Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s perfectly hot when your batter is ready. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil and grease it lightly; this makes peeling the brownies out in neat squares a breeze and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

Gently melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat to avoid burning. Once melted, stir in the Ghirardelli milk chocolate chips until completely smooth and glossy. This luscious mixture is the heart of your brownies, so stirring carefully is worth it. Set it aside to cool slightly while you get everything else ready.

Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs along with granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. This creates a fluffy base that will mimic velvet softness. Add the red food coloring gel and whisk again—watch as your batter takes on that iconic bold red color, signaling a red velvet masterpiece in the making.

Step 4: Combine Chocolate and Wet Mixtures

Gradually pour the cooled chocolate mixture into your egg mixture, whisking gently to combine. This step brings together the rich chocolate and sweet, colorful batter in perfect harmony — your brownies are nearly there!

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and unsweetened cocoa powder into a separate bowl. Folding these dry ingredients gently into the wet batter helps maintain a fudgy texture. Avoid overmixing to keep that tender crumb you’re craving.

Step 6: Bake Until Just Set

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Let your brownies cool completely—this makes frosting easier and preserves that dense, moist texture.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese, butter, salt, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, adjusting for sweetness and thickness. Mix in heavy cream or milk one tablespoon at a time to reach your desired spreading consistency that’s rich but fluffy.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. For clean and precise slices, chill the pan for a short while before cutting into squares. Now get ready to share the joy of the Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe—each bite bursting with velvety richness and a touch of playful sweetness.

How to Serve Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, sprinkle some festive red and white nonpareils or edible glitter on top of the frosting. Fresh raspberries or strawberries add a pop of color and a bright, fruity contrast that complements the dense brownies beautifully. A light dusting of extra cocoa powder can also add a dramatic flair if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of softly whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence. A warm cup of coffee or chai tea enriches the flavor experience, cutting through the sweetness with its earthiness, making every bite feel like a luxurious treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, serve the brownies on a decorative cake stand or arrange them in a layered dessert trifle with whipped cream and berries. You can also cut the brownies into heart shapes using cookie cutters for a charming touch perfect for celebrations like Valentine’s Day, emphasizing the romantic vibe of this Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate to prevent the cream cheese frosting from softening too much. Proper storage keeps the brownies moist and the frosting fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted brownie bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To freeze the frosted brownies, it’s best to freeze them uncut on a baking sheet first, then wrap and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then frost if needed or serve chilled for a delightful texture.

Reheating

Warm your brownies slightly before serving by placing them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or letting them sit at room temperature after removing from the fridge. This warming softens the brownies to their fudgiest consistency, allowing those beautiful flavors and creamy frosting to shine.

FAQs

Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel?

While regular liquid food coloring will work, gel food coloring is preferred because it provides more vibrant color without altering the batter’s consistency. Using gel helps maintain that perfect red velvet hue without thinning your batter.

Is it necessary to use Ghirardelli chocolate and cocoa?

Ghirardelli products are recommended for their high quality and rich flavor which contributes uniquely to the brownies’ depth and smoothness. However, you can substitute with other premium chocolate brands if needed, just ensure they have good cocoa content for the best results.

How important is it to let the brownies cool before frosting?

It’s very important! If you frost warm brownies, the frosting can melt and become runny, losing that irresistible creamy texture. Allow the brownies to cool completely to keep your frosting firm and luscious.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can make these brownies gluten-free. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to mimic the structure provided by regular flour.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?

Cream cheese is essential for the signature tangy flavor of the frosting, but if you don’t have it, a simple buttercream frosting can work as an alternative. Keep in mind the overall flavor profile will shift, losing some of that classic red velvet charm.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe that makes every occasion feel a little sweeter and more joyful. Its vibrant color, decadent chocolate flavor, and rich cream cheese frosting come together in perfect harmony to create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover your new favorite go-to for brownies. You’re going to love sharing this delight with friends and family—because these brownies really do say “kiss me” with every bite!