Bake up a batch of these decadent red velvet brownies with a velvety chocolate base and optional white chocolate chips. With their striking red color, fudgy texture, and rich cocoa flavor, these brownies are an elegant and delicious treat perfect for any occasion—Valentine’s Day, holidays, or just because!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Fudgy Texture – A perfect balance between brownies and cake-like softness.
- Classic Red Velvet Flavor – A hint of cocoa with a subtle tang from vinegar and buttermilk.
- Simple Ingredients – No fancy baking skills needed!
- Perfect for Special Occasions – A great treat for holidays, birthdays, or gifting.
- Customizable – Add white chocolate chips, nuts, or cream cheese swirls.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/4 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1/2 tsp vinegar)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Directions
- Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together melted butter and sugar until combined. Add eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, vinegar, and buttermilk, whisking until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix the Batter – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in white chocolate chips if using.
- Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool & Serve – Let the brownies cool completely before slicing into squares. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 9-12 brownies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Cream Cheese Swirl – Swirl in sweetened cream cheese before baking for a tangy contrast.
- Nutty Crunch – Add chopped pecans or walnuts for texture.
- Extra Fudgy – Reduce baking time by 2-3 minutes for a gooier center.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Drizzled White Chocolate – Melt white chocolate and drizzle over cooled brownies for an elegant touch.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep chilled for up to 1 week for a firmer texture.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, fudgy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a boxed red velvet cake mix instead?
Yes, but homemade gives a richer, fudgier texture compared to cake mix.
Why is vinegar used in red velvet brownies?
Vinegar enhances the tangy flavor and helps activate the baking powder for a tender texture.
Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?
Yes, but you may need more liquid food coloring to achieve a vibrant red color.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they’re ready.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the baking time by adding 5-7 minutes.
What type of cocoa powder should I use?
Unsweetened natural cocoa powder works best for the classic red velvet flavor.
How do I make these brownies extra moist?
Use room-temperature eggs and don’t overmix the batter.
Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?
Absolutely! White, dark, or semi-sweet chocolate chips add extra richness.
Can I frost these brownies?
Yes! A layer of cream cheese frosting makes them even more indulgent.
How do I get clean brownie slices?
Let them cool completely and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts.
Conclusion
These Rich & Chewy Red Velvet Brownies are the perfect blend of chocolatey, fudgy, and festive flavors. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving, they’re sure to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy every decadent bite!
Print
Rich & Chewy Red Velvet Brownies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bake up a batch of these decadent Red Velvet Brownies, featuring a velvety chocolate base and optional white chocolate chips. An elegant and delicious treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually fold into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Add Chocolate Chips (Optional):
- Fold in white chocolate chips, reserving a few for topping.
- Bake:
- Spread batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Sprinkle extra white chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool & Serve:
- Let brownies cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra fudgy brownies, slightly underbake and let them cool completely before cutting.
- Enhance the flavor with ½ tsp espresso powder for a richer chocolate taste.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American