If you crave something decadently chocolatey, vibrantly beautiful, and unfailingly crowd-pleasing, you need Red Velvet Brownies in your life. These luscious treats balance the deep cocoa flavor and signature scarlet hue of red velvet, with the dense, fudgy bite that only the best brownies deliver. Whether you leave them simple or take them over the top with a creamy swirl, every bite feels like a little celebration. Once you taste how rich and irresistible they are, you’ll want to make Red Velvet Brownies for every sweet occasion.

Red Velvet Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe serves a special purpose, lending flavor, texture, or incredible color to your Red Velvet Brownies. Gather these kitchen staples and prepare to be amazed by how they come together into pure magic!

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Gives the brownies a gorgeously fudgy texture and rich flavor.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens every bite and helps create that classic, shiny brownie top.
Large eggs (2): Bind all the ingredients together for the perfect chewy structure.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and depth to both the batter and the swirl.
Red food coloring (1 tablespoon): Essential for that show-stopping, classic red velvet hue.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/4 cup): Adds the signature chocolate flavor without overwhelming sweetness.
All-purpose flour (3/4 cup): Provides just enough structure for dense, fudgy brownies.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness.
White vinegar (1/2 teaspoon): Makes the color pop and gives a subtle tang that’s truly red velvet.
Cream cheese (4 oz, softened) (optional): For the swirl; brings extra richness and a creamy, tangy element.
Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons) (for swirl): Sweetens the creamy swirl just perfectly.
Egg yolk (1) (for swirl): Adds thickness and helps the swirl set beautifully.
Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon) (for swirl): Blends seamlessly into the cream cheese for additional flavor.

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), getting the temperature just right for the batter to bake up ultra-fudgy. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting a little hang over the sides so you can lift out the brownies easily later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk your melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until glossy and almost creamy. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and that vibrant red food coloring, then whisk again until your mixture looks smooth and beautifully red. This is your flavor-packed base!

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Drizzle in the white vinegar, then gently fold everything together with a spatula. Stop mixing as soon as you see the last streak of flour disappear. Too much mixing would make the brownies tough, and we all want them fudgy and soft!

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl (Optional)

For that bakery-style finish, beat the softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 egg yolk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until velvety smooth. It should be easy enough to dollop and swirl but not runny. This is absolutely optional, but so worth it.

Step 5: Assemble and Swirl

Spread the Red Velvet Brownie batter in your prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese swirl over the top at random. Then, with a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter for that mesmerizing marbled look—don’t overdo it or you’ll lose the pretty contrast.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the brownies for 25 to 30 minutes, just until the center looks set. A few moist crumbs on a toothpick mean you’re right on track for dense, melt-in-your-mouth Red Velvet Brownies.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. The cooler they are, the easier it is to get clean squares. Once cool, lift them out using the parchment overhang, slice them into perfect servings, and get ready to impress.

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies

Garnishes

For a polished look, dust the tops of your brownies with powdered sugar, or drizzle with a little white chocolate. The creamy white contrasts so beautifully with the ruby-red color, while adding a hint of extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

Serve your Red Velvet Brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic all-American pairing. If you’re looking for an elegant touch, a handful of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream makes them even more celebratory.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut brownies into hearts or fun shapes for special occasions. Build brownie trifles with whipped cream and berries in parfait glasses, or stack and wrap pieces in parchment for adorable edible gifts. Red Velvet Brownies always steal the show on dessert tables!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Letting them sit overnight actually intensifies the flavor, making them even fudgier on the second day!

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead, Red Velvet Brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, pop them in a freezer bag, and store for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready for a treat.

Reheating

For a warm, just-baked experience, microwave a brownie for 10–15 seconds. If you like the edges a bit crispier, pop a piece in a toaster oven for a couple of minutes. Warm brownies with melty chocolate are utterly irresistible!

FAQs

Can I make Red Velvet Brownies without the cream cheese swirl?

Absolutely! The base recipe stands on its own as a rich and fudgy chocolate treat, but the cream cheese swirl is a delightful upgrade if you’re feeling a bit fancy.

What kind of red food coloring should I use?

Liquid red food coloring works wonderfully and is easily available, but gel coloring can intensify the hue with a smaller amount. Just be sure to use a food coloring labeled as “red” for that classic red velvet look.

How will I know when my brownies are done?

Look for a set center and edges that just begin to pull away from the pan. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. The brownies will finish setting as they cool.

Why add vinegar to Red Velvet Brownies?

The vinegar helps bring out the cocoa flavor and deepens the red color. It also adds a subtle tang that’s central to that classic red velvet taste. Don’t worry, you won’t taste it directly in the final brownies.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Increase the baking time to about 35–40 minutes and keep an eye on the center for doneness.

Final Thoughts

Making Red Velvet Brownies is pure joy—from that dramatic red batter to the first fudgy, swirled bite. I hope this recipe brings a burst of excitement and a crowd of happy smiles to your kitchen. Go ahead and give these brownies a try—they may just become your new favorite dessert!