If you are looking to impress your friends or treat yourself to something truly indulgent, the Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine fudgy, rich brownies infused with the vibrant, iconic red velvet flavor and topped with a luscious, creamy frosting that melts in your mouth. This recipe combines the best of two worlds—classic chocolatey brownies and velvety cheesecake frosting—all wrapped up in a stunning crimson color that invites a second, or third, bite. Whether it’s a special occasion or just because you deserve a little love in dessert form, this recipe will quickly become your new favorite to bake and share.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the seemingly long list intimidate you—these ingredients are simple, accessible, and crucial for creating that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color in your Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe. Each component has a role, from the richness of the butter to the deep flavor of cocoa, the moisture from eggs, and the vibrant pop from the red food coloring gel.
- Unsalted butter (3 sticks total): Provides a rich, creamy base and balances sweetness perfectly.
- Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Chips (1¾ cups): Melts smoothly for deep chocolate flavor and fudgy texture.
- Large eggs (5): Bind everything together and add moisture.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup) and brown sugar (1¼ cups packed): Granulated adds sweetness, brown sugar adds depth and chewiness.
- Salt (1 teaspoon + â…› teaspoon for frosting): Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Vanilla extract (1¼ teaspoons + 1 teaspoon for frosting): Adds warmth and complexity to the flavor.
- Red food coloring gel (2 tablespoons): Gives these brownies their signature vibrant red hue.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Structure and chewiness in perfect harmony.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Just enough lift for a tender crumb.
- Ghirardelli unsweetened cocoa powder (3 tablespoons): Adds that classic chocolate bitterness that contrasts nicely with the sweet frosting.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): The secret to the silky, tangy frosting that crowns these brownies.
- Unsalted butter (5 tablespoons, room temperature for frosting): Creates a creamy, rich frosting texture.
- Confectioners’ sugar (2-3 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting just right.
- Heavy cream or milk (1-2 tablespoons): Adjusts frosting consistency for spreadability.
How to Make Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil, lightly greased to ensure your brownies slide out without a fuss. This prep step is key to smooth baking and cleanup.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Chocolate
In a saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter. Stir in 1¾ cups of Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Chips until silky smooth. This rich chocolate mixture is the base of your brownies and cooling it slightly before mixing makes sure everything blends perfectly in the next step.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients
Grab a large bowl and whisk together 5 room temperature eggs, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1¼ cups packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1¼ teaspoons vanilla extract until fully combined. Then, add 2 tablespoons of red food coloring gel, stirring well to get that irresistible red velvet vibrancy.
Step 4: Combine Chocolate Mixture with Wet Ingredients
Pour your cooled chocolate butter mixture into the egg mixture, whisking gradually to keep the batter smooth and velvety without cooking the eggs. This step creates the luscious, fudgy base that will wow your taste buds.
Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Sift together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder into a separate bowl. Carefully fold this into the wet chocolate mixture just until combined, preserving the tender crumb and classic red velvet texture.
Step 6: Bake the Brownies
Spread your batter evenly into the prepared pan and slide it into the oven for 35 to 40 minutes. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan so they set up perfectly for that rich, creamy frosting.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, ⅛ teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add 2 to 3 cups of confectioners’ sugar, adjusting the thickness with 1 to 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk until you have a spreadable frosting that’s neither too runny nor too stiff.
Step 8: Frost and Serve
Spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over your cooled brownies. Cut into beautiful squares, and get ready to enjoy every bite of this truly special Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe.
How to Serve Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
While the creamy frosting and rich red velvet brownies stand beautifully on their own, consider sprinkling a few chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even a handful of fresh raspberries on top for an extra touch of elegance. These little garnishes not only enhance the look but add layers of flavor and texture that delight your palate.
Side Dishes
This brownie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. A cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk also complements the rich chocolate and cream cheese flavors, creating an experience that’s cozy and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking beyond the classic square, try cutting the Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe into bite-sized nuggets and dipping them partially in melted white chocolate for a stunning two-tone treat. Alternatively, layer pieces in a clear trifle dish with whipped cream and fresh strawberries to create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, keep your brownies covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness. If your kitchen is warm, storing them in the fridge will extend their life up to a week, just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving so the frosting is soft and creamy.
Freezing
If you want to make these brownies ahead or save leftovers, you can freeze them for up to three months. Wrap the cut brownies individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter before enjoying the full rich flavor they’re known for.
Reheating
To revive the fresh-baked taste, gently warm a brownie square in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This softens the fudge-like interior and slightly melts the frosting, making each bite gooey and irresistible again.
FAQs
Can I use regular red food coloring instead of gel?
While regular liquid food coloring will work, gel food coloring is preferred for the Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe because it provides a richer, more vibrant red without adding excess liquid that could alter the batter’s consistency.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking, keeping the same measurement. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free too for best results.
Can I prepare the frosting in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the cream cheese frosting a day ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whisk before spreading it on the brownies for a perfectly smooth finish.
What if I don’t have Ghirardelli chocolate? Can I use another brand?
You can use any good quality milk chocolate chips and cocoa powder, but using Ghirardelli, as suggested in the Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe, enhances the rich flavor and silky texture that really elevates the brownies to that next level.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The brownies are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached. This ensures they are fudgy inside but fully baked through, giving that perfect gooey texture we all love.
Final Thoughts
Once you try the Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe, you’ll understand why this decadent dessert is a beloved treasure for any chocolate and red velvet fan. It’s the perfect recipe to bring a little extra joy and color to your kitchen with every bite. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and bake up a batch of love that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.
Print
Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these rich and moist Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies, combining the classic flavors of red velvet cake and chocolate brownies topped with a smooth, creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any celebration or dessert craving, these brownies feature a deep red hue, luscious chocolate undertones, and a velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into chunks
- 1¾ cups Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Chips
- 5 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1¼ cups packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1¼ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring gel
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 tablespoons Ghirardelli unsweetened cocoa powder
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- â…› teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil and lightly grease it to prepare for the batter.
- Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter and stir in the milk chocolate chips until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and red food coloring gel until fully blended and vibrant in color.
- Combine Chocolate Mixture: Gradually whisk the cooled melted chocolate mixture into the wet ingredients, ensuring a smooth, even batter.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and unsweetened cocoa powder in a separate bowl. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Bake Brownies: Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let brownies cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese, room temperature butter, salt, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, adjusting the consistency as needed by adding 1 to 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk to achieve spreadability.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Cut into squares and serve, enjoying the perfect blend of red velvet and chocolate flavors.
Notes
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to maintain brownie tenderness.
- Adjust frosting thickness by adding more powdered sugar or cream as needed.
- Line baking pan with foil for easier removal of brownies after baking.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh.
- These brownies can be served chilled or at room temperature based on preference.
