Name: Indulgent Red Velvet Brownies That Will Melt Your Heart
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon red food coloring; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon white vinegar; ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ¾ cup all-purpose flour; ¼ teaspoon salt; Optional cream cheese swirl:; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 egg yolk; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

These Indulgent Red Velvet Brownies are rich, fudgy, and beautifully vibrant—bringing together the deep cocoa flavor of traditional brownies with the subtle tang of red velvet. Topped with a swirl of cream cheese or served as-is, they’re a bold twist on a classic that always feels a little extra special. Whether I’m baking for a holiday, a date night, or just to treat myself, these brownies never disappoint.

Indulgent Red Velvet Brownies That Will Melt Your Heart

Why I Love This Recipe

I love how these brownies combine the chewy, fudgy texture I expect from a brownie with the hint of cocoa and slight tanginess that makes red velvet so unique. They’re not just pretty to look at—they’re rich, flavorful, and indulgent without being too sweet. The color alone makes them feel festive and romantic, which is why I keep this recipe in my back pocket for everything from Valentine’s Day to cozy nights in.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon white vinegar
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¾ cup all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt

Optional cream cheese swirl:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons sugar
1 egg yolk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, I whisk the melted butter with both sugars until smooth.
I add the eggs, red food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar, and whisk until fully combined and creamy.
I sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt, then stir gently just until no dry streaks remain.
I pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top.
If using the cream cheese swirl, I beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla in a separate bowl until smooth. I drop spoonfuls over the brownie batter and swirl with a knife or toothpick.
I bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
I let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

Makes about 9–12 brownies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I skip the cream cheese swirl and top the cooled brownies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle of melted white chocolate. I’ve also added white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks into the batter for extra richness. If I’m feeling festive, I sprinkle the top with red and white sprinkles before baking for a celebratory touch.

Storage/Reheating

I store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days for a firmer texture. To freeze, I wrap individual squares tightly and store in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 2 months. When I want one, I let it thaw at room temp or warm it for a few seconds in the microwave for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.

FAQs

What makes these brownies “red velvet”?

It’s the combination of cocoa powder, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla that gives them the signature red velvet flavor and color.

Indulgent Red Velvet Brownies That Will Melt Your Heart

Can I use natural food coloring?

Yes, I’ve used beet powder or natural food dyes, but the color won’t be as intense. Still delicious, though!

Do I have to add the cream cheese swirl?

Nope—it’s totally optional. The brownies are rich and flavorful on their own, but the cream cheese does add a lovely tangy contrast.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. The bake time may increase by 5–10 minutes depending on your oven.

What’s the best way to cut clean brownie squares?

I let the brownies cool completely and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. Chilling them briefly helps if I want super clean edges.

Conclusion

These Indulgent Red Velvet Brownies are everything I want in a dessert—beautiful, bold, and completely irresistible. With their rich cocoa base and vibrant color, they melt hearts and satisfy cravings in just one bite. Whether dressed up with cream cheese or enjoyed plain, they’re a treat I love to bake again and again.