Name: Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 85 g bittersweet chocolate; 150 g extra light tasting olive oil; 1 tsp red food gel; 200 g granulated sugar; 142 g brown sugar; 3 eggs (room temperature); 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp white vinegar; 120 g all-purpose flour; 63 g dutch process cocoa powder; 21 g black cocoa powder; ½ tsp salt; 127 g bittersweet chocolate (roughly chopped)

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If you have a soft spot for rich, luscious treats that combine the classic charm of red velvet with the fudgy indulgence of brownies, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe. This dessert strikes the perfect balance between moist, velvet-textured cake and deep chocolatey goodness, all with a gorgeous ruby-red hue that brightens up any occasion. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just because, these brownies will bring a smile to every face at the table—and maybe even a few happy tears!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows eleven ingredients placed on a white marbled surface, arranged in a loose grid. At the top left is a white bowl filled with dark brown chocolate chips. To its right is a small clear glass jar with a light yellow oil. Below the chocolate chips is a white bowl filled with medium brown cocoa powder, next to a clear glass bowl filled with white granulated sugar. Near the center are three brown eggs placed side by side. Below the cocoa powder is a white bowl with very dark brown cocoa powder, and to its right is a small white bowl with light brown powder, likely baking soda or baking powder. Further down, a white bowl holds light brown soft sugar next to a small bowl with a dark brown liquid, probably vanilla extract. At the bottom left is a small clear glass bowl with a red liquid, and next to it is a larger white bowl filled with white flour. The whole arrangement is clean and well lit. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is a breeze. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting those signature flavors and textures—from the bittersweet chocolate that adds depth, to the red food gel that gives that iconic vibrant color. Let’s get started with these simple yet essential components that come together beautifully.

85 g bittersweet chocolate: Provides a rich, slightly bitter base that balances sweetness perfectly.
150 g extra light tasting olive oil: Keeps the brownies moist without overpowering the flavor.
1 tsp red food gel: Adds that unmistakable red velvet color with a concentrated intensity.
200 g granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping with structure.
142 g brown sugar: Brings warmth and a hint of caramel flavor.
3 eggs (room temp): Essential for moisture, binding, and richness.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with aromatic sweetness.
1 tsp white vinegar: Reacts with the cocoa powders to boost tenderness and color.
120 g all-purpose flour: Provides the necessary structure for chewy, fudgy brownies.
63 g Dutch process cocoa powder: Delivers a smooth, mellow chocolate taste.
21 g black cocoa powder: Adds an intense dark chocolate depth and richness.
½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavors.
127 g bittersweet chocolate (roughly chopped): Creates pockets of gooey melted chocolate throughout.

How to Make Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper so the brownies won’t stick and will lift out easily once baked—this is one of those small steps that makes cleanup a dream and presentation flawless.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate, Oil, and Red Food Gel

In a small bowl, combine the bittersweet chocolate, extra light olive oil, and red food gel. Place this bowl over simmering water, stirring frequently until everything is melted and combined into a smooth, glossy liquid. Let it cool just a bit so it doesn’t cook the eggs when added later.

Step 3: Whip Sugars, Eggs, Vanilla, and Vinegar

In a large mixing bowl, add granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. Using an electric mixer, beat this mixture on high speed for 5 to 6 minutes until it’s light, fluffy, and roughly doubled in volume. This aeration step is key to giving the brownies a tender crumb and marvelous texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet Mixtures

With the mixer on low speed, slowly pour in the warm chocolate and oil mixture. Mixing gently prevents overworking the batter while ensuring everything blends smoothly into a luscious red velvet base.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

Fold in the all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa powder, black cocoa powder, and salt carefully. You want the batter mostly combined but don’t overmix—the batter should still look rich and thick with a gorgeous red hue.

Step 6: Fold in Chopped Bittersweet Chocolate

Finally, fold in the roughly chopped bittersweet chocolate pieces. These chunks melt during baking, creating surprise pockets of gooey chocolate in every bite, making the indulgence even more heavenly.

Step 7: Pour Batter and Bake

Transfer the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Bake for about 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs—perfectly fudgy!

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Once cooled, slice into 16 squares, sprinkle with flaky sea salt if you like, and prepare to enjoy the incredible flavors that make this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe so special.

How to Serve Red Velvet Brownies Recipe

The image shows several dark chocolate brownies with a shiny, cracked top layer. Each brownie has a dense, moist texture with a visible middle layer of melted chocolate in a slightly lighter brown shade. The brownies are cut into square pieces and arranged closely together, emphasizing their rich and fudgy interior. The surface they rest on is not visible, focusing fully on the deep brown, glossy tops and the textured sides of the brownies. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To take your Red Velvet Brownies Recipe to the next level, consider dolloping on whipped cream or a swirl of cream cheese frosting which echoes the classic red velvet combination beautifully. A few fresh raspberries or a sprinkle of toasted nuts add textural contrast and a pop of flavor that complements the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Brownies are wonderful on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce makes for a splendid dessert experience. A hot cup of coffee or tea also rounds out the enjoyment, balancing the sweetness with a comforting warmth.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not surprise your guests by serving your Red Velvet Brownies Recipe as part of an elegant dessert platter? Layer squares alongside fruit, nuts, and bite-sized cheesecake pieces for a celebration-worthy spread. Or get playful by cutting the brownies into hearts or other fun shapes for birthdays, holidays, or romantic occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover brownies should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them moist and chewy. Properly stored, they stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days—perfect for snacking or a quick dessert fix later in the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Red Velvet Brownies Recipe for longer, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag. They’ll maintain their fantastic flavor and texture for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen brownies, thaw them overnight in the fridge or for a couple of hours at room temperature. For that just-baked warmth, pop them in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or warm them briefly in the oven at a low temperature. This revives their softness and melt-in-your-mouth charm wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I substitute the olive oil with butter?

Absolutely! Butter will give a slightly richer flavor and denser texture, though olive oil helps keep the brownies moist and tender. Use melted unsalted butter in a 1:1 ratio for a delicious variation.

What if I don’t have red food gel? Can I use liquid food coloring?

Red food gel is preferred because it gives a more vibrant color without thinning the batter. However, liquid food coloring can work in a pinch—just use a little more to achieve the intensity you want, keeping in mind it may slightly affect texture.

Why do the eggs need to be at room temperature?

Room temperature eggs mix more easily into the batter, creating a better emulsion and ensuring your brownies turn out light and fluffy instead of dense or uneven.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture may vary slightly but the fudgy richness and flavor will still shine.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

A toothpick inserted near the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely wet batter. The edges should look set and slightly pulling away from the pan. This ensures a fudgy center without being underbaked.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about this Red Velvet Brownies Recipe that makes baking feel like an act of love. From the first vibrant swipe of batter to the final bite of those tender, chocolatey squares, it’s a dessert that invites celebration and comfort all at once. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—you’ll soon see why it’s one of my absolute favorites to share with friends and family!