Name: Irresistible Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: ½ cup Butter (Substitute with coconut oil or dairy-free butter for vegan option.); ¾ cup Light Brown Sugar (Coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic index.); ½ cup Granulated Sugar (Consider sugar alternative if needed.); 2 large Eggs (Use flax eggs for a vegan option.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for the best results.); 1-2 tablespoon Liquid Red Food Coloring (Beet root powder can replace for natural coloring.); 1 tablespoon White Vinegar (Lemon juice can be substituted if needed.); 1/3 cup Cocoa Powder (Dutch-processed cocoa can be used for milder taste.); ½ teaspoon Salt (Essential for flavor; no substitute recommended.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free diets.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Substitute with dairy-free cream cheese for dairy-free option.); ¼ cup Butter (Substitute with dairy-free butter for vegan option.); 2-3 cups Powdered Sugar (Granulated sugar blended into a powder can be used.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Same substitution notes apply as in brownies.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Omit for regular frosting.)

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As I sifted through the pantry searching for inspiration, the vibrant crimson hue of unsweetened cocoa caught my eye, igniting a delectable memory of my first bite of red velvet brownies. These Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are not just any dessert; they offer the perfect blend of chewy texture and a tangy frosting that brings comfort with every bite. What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or surprise guests. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate dairy-free diets, ensuring no one misses out on this rich, indulgent treat. Ready to bring a touch of romance to your baking routine? You won’t want to miss this delightful twist on a classic!

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Why Are These Brownies So Special?

Simplicity, this recipe is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Dairy-Free Option means everyone can indulge, as it accommodates various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. Irresistible Frosting adds a perfect touch of creamy tanginess, elevating the rich ruby hue of the brownies. Versatile Variations allow you to customize the recipe with chocolate chips or nuts, appealing to diverse tastes. Crowd-Pleasing dessert for gatherings, it’s guaranteed to impress family and friends alike. Don’t forget to check out my delectable Cheesecake Brownies Dessert for another sweet treat!

Red Velvet Brownie Ingredients

• Get ready to indulge!

For the Brownies

Butter – Provides moisture and richness. Substitute with coconut oil or dairy-free butter for a vegan option.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and a slight caramel flavor. This can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option.
Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness. There’s no direct substitution; consider a sugar alternative if needed.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and contribute to structure. For a vegan option, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor. Use pure vanilla for the best results; imitation can be substituted if unavailable.
Liquid Red Food Coloring – Provides the distinctive red color; can be replaced with beet root powder for a natural coloring option (may alter texture slightly).
White Vinegar – Activates the baking soda and enhances the red color in the cocoa. Use lemon juice as a substitute if needed.
Cocoa Powder – Adds chocolate flavor and deepens the brownie’s color. Dutch-processed cocoa can be used for a milder taste.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor. Essential for all baking recipes; no substitute recommended.
All-Purpose Flour – Creates the structure of brownies. For gluten-free diets, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor. For dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese.
Butter – Adds richness. Substitute with dairy-free butter for a vegan option.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting. You can use granulated sugar blended into a powder as an alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor. Same substitution notes apply as in brownies.
Cornstarch – Helps thicken the frosting (only if using dairy-free cream cheese). Can be omitted for regular frosting.

These Red Velvet Brownies promise a delightful experience that you won’t want to miss!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, take an 8×8 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the edges for easy removal later. This step ensures your delightful red velvet brownies will come out smoothly and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Melt and Mix
In a medium mixing bowl, melt ½ cup of butter either in the microwave or on the stovetop until fully liquefied. Once melted, combine the butter with ¾ cup light brown sugar and ½ cup granulated sugar. Whisk this mixture vigorously until it reaches a thick, paste-like consistency that glistens, exhibiting rich moisture and sweetness.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Now, incorporate 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and 1-2 tablespoons of liquid red food coloring into the sugar and butter mixture. Whisk everything together thoroughly until the ingredients blend seamlessly and achieve a uniform color that is vibrant red, reflecting that classic red velvet hue.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Next, sift in 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup cocoa powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt into the wet mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to retain that soft, chewy texture characteristic of your red velvet brownies.

Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center remains slightly soft. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.

Step 6: Cool Before Frosting
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 20-30 minutes. Allowing them to cool completely is crucial before frosting. This prevents the delicious cream cheese frosting from melting and ensures a beautifully set topping on your rich red velvet brownies.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the brownies cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together 8 oz of cream cheese and ¼ cup of softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in 2-3 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until you achieve a thick and spreadable frosting that is perfectly sweet and tangy.

Step 8: Frost and Serve
Once your brownies are completely cool, gently spread the prepared cream cheese frosting over the top using a spatula. For a beautiful finish, you can create swirls or smooth it out evenly. After frosting, allow the brownies to set in the refrigerator for a bit before slicing into squares, ready to be enjoyed by all!

What to Serve with Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These chewy, vibrant treats are perfect for creating a luscious dessert table that will delight everyone.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the rich brownie texture while enhancing the dessert experience.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a burst of freshness and acidity that balances the sweetness of the brownies.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling some warm chocolate sauce adds an indulgent touch, amplifying the cocoa flavors and creating an irresistible sheen.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this whipped cream adds a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the tangy cream cheese frosting.
Mint Tea: The refreshing notes of mint tea offer a soothing palate cleanser and enhance the dessert’s overall experience.
Chopped Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the brownies’ soft, chewy texture.

Serving these alongside your brownies creates a delightful feast that’s both fulfilling and memorable!

Red Velvet Brownies Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful variations to make the recipe your own and enhance those rich flavors!

Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese to make a deliciously creamy frosting that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Flavor: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a lovely crunch and nutty richness.
Chocolate Lovers: Omit the red food coloring and increase cocoa powder for a chocolate version of these brownies.
Extra Richness: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter to infuse every bite with molten chocolate goodness.
Fruity Twist: Top your frosted brownies with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a burst of tartness that complements the sweetness.
Healthy Swap: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier twist without sacrificing taste.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Frozen Delight: Serve your brownies topped with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

With all these tempting variations, the only challenge will be deciding which to try first! And if you’re a fan of rich desserts, don’t miss my Cookies Cream Brownies for another chocolatey treat!

How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Brownies

Fridge: Store frosted red velvet brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep them fresh and moist.

Room Temperature: If you have unfrosted brownies, you can keep them covered at room temperature for up to 4 days. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.

Freezer: To freeze brownies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: For a warm dessert experience, reheat individual brownies in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This will bring back their fudgy texture beautifully!

Make Ahead Options

These Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator (just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out). Additionally, the cream cheese frosting can be made ahead and kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled batter into your prepared pan and pop it in the oven as usual. After cooling, frost the brownies before serving for a freshly baked treat that’s just as delicious, saving you time on busy weeknights!

Expert Tips for Red Velvet Brownies

Measure Accurately: Ensure you measure your ingredients properly, especially flour and sugar. Too much flour can lead to dry brownies, ruining their chewy texture.
Cooling Is Key: Always allow the brownies to cool completely before frosting. If you frost them while warm, the cream cheese frosting will melt and slide off.
Choose the Right Cocoa: Use high-quality cocoa powder for richer flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa provides a milder taste, enhancing the red velvet experience.
Vegan Substitutes: If going dairy-free, choose reliable dairy-free butter and cream cheese brands for the best results. Not all brands perform the same!
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to cakey brownies rather than the chewy texture you crave.
Test Doneness Carefully: Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, ensuring that the brownies are perfectly fudgy.

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Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

What type of cocoa powder should I use for the best flavor?
High-quality cocoa powder is key for the richest flavor in your Red Velvet Brownies. I recommend using Dutch-processed cocoa for a milder, less acidic taste, which perfectly complements the sweetness of the brownies. If you’re in a pinch, regular unsweetened cocoa will work too, but your brownies might be a tad more intense in flavor.

How do I know when my brownies are done baking?
To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies around the 30-minute mark. It should come out with a few moist crumbs attached; this indicates a fudgy texture. If it comes out clean, the brownies may be overbaked, leading to a drier bite. Always keep an eye on them as they bake!

Can I freeze my red velvet brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow your brownies to cool completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and maybe pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds for that warm, fresh-baked experience!

What’s the best way to store these brownies after baking?
Store your frosted Red Velvet Brownies in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for up to 4 days. If they’re un frosted, you can keep them at room temperature for the same duration, just make sure they’re well covered to prevent them from drying out.

Can I use a different frosting instead of cream cheese?
Yes, feel free to switch up the frosting! A simple buttercream or chocolate ganache can be used instead of cream cheese frosting. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a dairy-free buttercream made with vegan butter or coconut cream for a deliciously creamy topping. Have fun experimenting with flavors!

Are there any ingredient substitutions I should consider for a gluten-free option?
For a gluten-free version of your Red Velvet Brownies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent to help achieve the desired texture. This way, you can enjoy these brownies without the gluten, and nobody will guess the difference!