Red Velvet Fudgy Brownies (Printer-Friendly)

Fudgy brownies with a vibrant red hue and smooth cream cheese frosting. A sweet twist on a classic favorite.

# What You'll Need:

→ Brownies

01 - 130 grams all-purpose flour
02 - 18 grams unsweetened cocoa powder
03 - 3 grams baking soda
04 - 200 grams light brown sugar, packed
05 - 115 grams salted butter, melted
06 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature
07 - 7 millilitres vanilla extract
08 - 15 grams red food coloring gel

→ Cream Cheese Frosting

09 - 115 grams cream cheese, softened to room temperature
10 - 30 grams salted butter, softened
11 - 175 grams powdered sugar
12 - 5 millilitres vanilla extract

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Preheat oven to 175°C. Line a 23x23-centimetre baking dish with parchment paper and lightly coat with nonstick spray.
02 - In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
03 - In a separate large bowl, whisk the brown sugar and melted butter until smooth and fully incorporated.
04 - Whisk in eggs and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined. Add red food colouring gel and whisk until the colour is uniform.
05 - Fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until no visible traces of flour remain. Do not overmix.
06 - Evenly spread the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center yields a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
07 - In a medium bowl, whip cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually blend in powdered sugar. Add vanilla extract and continue whipping for 3 minutes, until light and fluffy.
08 - Once brownies are fully cooled, spread frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula or butter knife.
09 - Cut into portions and serve. For optimal flavour, allow brownies to come to room temperature before serving.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Brownies must be stored refrigerated due to the cream cheese frosting, and freeze well for up to 3 months.
02 - Ensure flour is measured using the spoon-and-level method to avoid dryness.
03 - For thicker frosting, double the frosting component as desired.
04 - Brownies are best enjoyed after sitting at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.