Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These red velvet brownies stand out because of their stunning red hue and the perfect balance of tangy and chocolatey flavors. The combination of cocoa powder, buttermilk (or vinegar), and butter creates a rich, fudgy texture that makes each bite melt in your mouth. They are ideal for celebrations or simply indulging in something sweet and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Butter
Chopped semi-sweet chocolate (or chocolate chips)
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
White vinegar
Red food coloring (preferably gel)
Unsweetened cocoa powder
All-purpose flour
Salt

Directions

Preheat your oven and grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chopped chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Mix in the granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, followed by vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring.
In a separate bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
Fold in any optional mix-ins (e.g., white chocolate chips).
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out.
Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16 brownies
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour

Variations

Add mix-ins like white chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or swirl in caramel or peanut butter for an extra layer of flavor.
For a festive touch, top with powdered sugar or heart-shaped candies.
Spread cream cheese frosting for an added creamy texture and a classic red velvet feel.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
To freeze, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

FAQs

How can I make these brownies more fudgy?

For extra fudgy brownies, make sure not to overmix the batter and bake them just until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.

Can I use liquid food coloring?

Gel food coloring works best to achieve the vibrant red hue without affecting the batter’s consistency.

How do I know when my brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), your brownies are ready.

Can I add frosting?

Yes! Cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with these brownies, adding a creamy, tangy element that complements the red velvet flavor.

What can I mix into the batter?

Consider adding white chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or a swirl of caramel for additional flavor and texture.

Can I use a different size pan?

If using a different size pan, you may need to adjust the baking time. A larger pan will result in thinner brownies, while a smaller pan may require more time to bake.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, these brownies can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them perfect for prepping in advance.

Why are my brownies too cakey?

Cakey brownies are usually the result of overmixing the batter or baking them for too long. Keep mixing to a minimum and check them early to avoid overbaking.

How do I make sure my brownies are moist?

The key to moist brownies is not overbaking. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick, and remove them from the oven as soon as you see moist crumbs.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be substituted for butter, it may alter the texture slightly, making the brownies less rich and fudgy.

Conclusion

These red velvet brownies are the perfect treat to impress guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. With their striking color, rich chocolate flavor, and soft, fudgy texture, they offer a wonderful twist on classic brownies. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy dessert, these brownies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.