If you have a hankering for something that perfectly balances rich chocolate flavor with a vibrant splash of color, then this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is absolutely going to become your new go-to treat. These brownies are delightfully fudgy and carry that classic red velvet allure with a subtle tang from vinegar, while the cocoa and melted chocolate deliver deep, indulgent notes that keep you coming back for another bite. Perfectly easy to whip up, they bring a festive touch to any dessert table or a cozy moment just for yourself. Trust me, once you taste these, you’ll want to make them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is a simple, essential player that ensures your Red Velvet Brownies Recipe turns out irresistibly fudgy, colorful, and flavorful. From the smooth melted butter that keeps them moist, to the touch of vinegar that balances sweetness, each component works together beautifully.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter melted: Provides rich moisture and helps marry the chocolate flavors.
- 2 oz chopped semi-sweet chocolate bar: Adds intense chocolate depth and fudginess.
- 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and balances the cocoa bitterness perfectly.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to a tender crumb.
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar: Adds that iconic red velvet tang and helps enhance color vibrancy.
- 1/2 tablespoon red gel food coloring: Gives the signature red tone that makes these brownies a showstopper.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Essential for that chocolate-ey punch with a velvety finish.
- 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure without sacrificing fudginess.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional): Adds bursts of creamy sweetness when mixed in or drizzled on top.
How to Make Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This simple prep step ensures your brownies bake evenly and slide out easily once cooled, making for smooth slicing and serving later.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter and chopped semi-sweet chocolate together. Use 30-second bursts and stir in between to avoid overheating. This mixture is the foundation for the rich, fudgy texture your brownies will have.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
To the melted butter and chocolate, stir in the granulated sugar until fully combined. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to build a smooth, fluffy batter. Finish this step by mixing in the vanilla extract, white vinegar, and that stunning red gel food coloring for perfect hue and flavor balance.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt. Sifting helps avoid lumps and ensures an even, delicate crumb throughout your brownies.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. This careful mixing prevents the brownies from becoming tough. If you love white chocolate, fold in those optional white chocolate chips here for pockets of creamy sweetness that surprise every bite.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Pour the luscious batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for around 30 to 35 minutes until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan—this step is key for getting clean cuts and that perfect fudgy texture we crave.
How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, try drizzling melted white chocolate over the brownies once cooled, then allow it to set. The contrast of creamy white on deep red is absolutely stunning and adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. A sprinkle of crushed pecans or edible gold flakes can also add a touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A fresh berry compote or sliced strawberries brighten the plate and add a refreshing contrast to the dense chocolate richness. A cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk completes the indulgent experience perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving at a party or just want to impress, cut the brownies into fun shapes using cookie cutters, or layer them with cream cheese frosting to create mini red velvet brownie sandwiches. Wrapping individual squares in parchment with a festive ribbon can make charming gifts too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Red Velvet Brownies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. This keeps them fudgy and fresh, ready for snacking whenever the craving strikes.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, freeze brownies well-wrapped in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
Warm up brownies slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds or so to regain that soft, gooey texture. If you like, add a scoop of ice cream or drizzle some melted chocolate for an extra-special treat.
FAQs
Can I use natural cocoa powder in this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe?
Natural cocoa powder works fine, but it tends to be more acidic and can affect the final color and flavor depth slightly. Dutch-processed cocoa is preferred for a smoother taste and vibrant color contrast in red velvet recipes.
What’s the purpose of the vinegar in the recipe?
White vinegar reacts with baking soda or baking powder (if used) and also enhances the signature mild tanginess of red velvet. It also helps intensify the red color, making these brownies visually striking.
Can I substitute the red gel food coloring with liquid food coloring?
You can, but gel food coloring is more concentrated, providing a richer and more vivid red hue without adding extra liquid that could alter the batter consistency.
How can I make these brownies more fudgy?
Use a bit more butter and chocolate, and avoid overbaking. Pull the brownies out when the center is still slightly undercooked for that perfect fudgy bite.
Are white chocolate chips necessary?
They’re totally optional, but they add a lovely sweetness and creamy texture. If you prefer pure chocolate flavor, feel free to skip them or substitute with semi-sweet chips.
Final Thoughts
Making these Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is truly a joy from start to finish. Each bite offers a decadent, fudgy chocolate experience with a beautiful pop of red that brightens any day. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a homemade sweet treat, this recipe promises to delight and impress. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
These fudgy red velvet brownies combine the rich taste of cocoa with a vibrant red color and a hint of vanilla, offering a perfect chocolatey treat for any sweet tooth craving. Moist, tender, and easy to prepare, these brownies are great for parties, snacks, or dessert.
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 oz chopped semi-sweet chocolate bar
- 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 tablespoon red gel food coloring
Dry Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, mixed in the batter or melted and drizzled on top)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter and chopped semi-sweet chocolate in 30-second increments, stirring well after each until fully combined and smooth.
- Add Sugar and Eggs: Stir in the granulated sugar until well incorporated. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Mix Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red gel food coloring, mixing thoroughly to distribute the vibrant color and flavor evenly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt to remove any lumps and aerate the mixture.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain fudgy texture. If using, fold in the white chocolate chips now.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Optionally, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled brownies, let it set, then cut into 16 squares and serve.
Notes
- Use red gel food coloring for the best vibrant color without thinning the batter.
- Do not overbake; the center should be moist for fudgy brownies.
- White chocolate chips can be mixed into the batter or melted and used as a decorative drizzle.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting for clean slices.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American