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.