The moment you take a bite of these Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies, you’re enveloped in a symphony of rich flavors and textures that evoke pure joy. The warm aroma of brown butter gently swirling in the air fills your kitchen with a comforting embrace, instantly lifting your spirits. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or just craving a decadent treat for yourself, these brownies bring a touch of elegance to any occasion.
With each luscious, fudgy square layered beneath a velvety cream cheese frosting, it’s hard to believe that such a delightful dessert can be so simple to whip up. As the bright red hue catches your eye, you’ll find it hard to resist another bite. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any gathering, they’re sure to impress friends and family alike. Dive into this easy recipe that proves homemade desserts can turn everyday moments into something truly special!
Why love Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies?
Indulgence awaits! The moment you taste these brownies, your dessert game will change forever.
- Decadent Delight: Rich, buttery flavors meld perfectly with the classic red velvet cake essence.
- Festive Flair: Their vibrant color makes them an ideal centerpiece for Valentine’s Day or any celebration.
- Simple to Make: You don’t need to be a pastry chef to create these stunning treats!
- Versatile Variations: Add nuts or change the color for a personalized touch.
- Creamy Topping: The light cream cheese frosting offers a beautiful balance to the sweetness.
- Crowd-Pleasing: These brownies are sure to impress everyone, from family to dinner guests!
Get ready to savor every bite!
Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownies
• Salted Butter – Adds rich flavor and moisture. Use unsalted butter if preferred, and adjust salt accordingly.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Provides deep chocolate flavor. No substitutions recommended.
• Dark Chocolate Chips – Enhances chocolate richness. Substitute with milk chocolate for a sweeter brownie.
• Olive Oil – Contributes to moistness. Can swap for vegetable oil or melted coconut oil.
• All-Natural Red Gel Food Coloring – For vibrant red color typical of red velvet. Skip for classic chocolate brownies, but texture will differ.
• Brown Sugar – Offers moisture and caramel-like sweetness. Light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure. No substitutions recommended.
• Eggs – Provides structure and helps bind ingredients. For a vegan option, use flax eggs or applesauce.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor. Use pure for the best taste; imitation can substitute, but flavor will vary.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to brownies. Gluten-free flour blend can be used for gluten intolerance.
• Salt – Enhances flavor balance. Omit if using salted butter.
• Chocolate Chips of Choice – Adds extra chocolate in the brownie. Use any preferred chocolate variety.
For the Cream Cheese Topping
• Cream Cheese – Base for the whipped topping; provides creaminess. Substitute with a dairy-free cream cheese for vegan brownies.
• Heavy Cream – Ensures a smooth whipped topping. Can replace with non-dairy creamy alternatives.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the cream cheese topping. No substitutions recommended.
How to Make Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies
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Brown the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. Set aside to cool slightly.
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Whisk Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine unsweetened cocoa powder, dark chocolate chips, olive oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
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Add Brown Butter: Stir the cooled brown butter gently into the mixture, followed by the all-natural red gel food coloring, until everything is uniformly colored and blended.
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Fold in Dry Ingredients: Carefully add flour and salt to the bowl, folding them in until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to ensure your brownies remain fluffy.
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Prepare for Baking: Pour the brownie batter into a greased 8×8″ pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
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Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
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Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before moving on to the frosting. This step helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.
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Make the Cream Cheese Topping: In a bowl, whip together cream cheese, heavy cream, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
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Frost the Brownies: Spread the whipped cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownies. Just before serving, dust lightly with cocoa powder for that elegant finish.
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Serve and Enjoy: Cut into squares and savor the moment, whether warm or at room temperature!
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful brownies to your taste!
- Chocolate Lovers: Replace some or all of the red food coloring with cocoa powder for ultra-rich chocolate brownies.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the fudgy texture perfectly.
- Toffee Bliss: Add toffee bits to the batter for bursts of caramel flavor, setting a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Flavor Twists: Incorporate almond or orange extract in place of vanilla for a refreshing spin that brightens the flavor profile.
- Fruity Addition: Toss in raspberry or cherry pieces for a fruity twist that adds a nice tang to the decadent sweetness.
- Vegan Delight: Swap eggs for flax eggs or applesauce and use dairy-free cream cheese for a delicious vegan version that everyone will adore.
- Spicy Kick: Infuse some cinnamon or chili powder for a unique heat that plays beautifully with the sweetness.
- Texture Fun: Fold in crispy rice cereal for an unexpected crunchy layer that adds exciting texture to the soft brownies.
Tips for the Best Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies
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Browning Butter: Pay close attention while browning the butter; a slow and steady heat helps achieve that nutty aroma without burning.
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Mixing Technique: Combine wet and dry ingredients just until incorporated to prevent tough brownies. A light hand keeps them fluffy and decadent.
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Cooling Time: Allow your brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting; this ensures cleaner edges and helps set the whipped topping beautifully.
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Serving Suggestion: For an indulgent twist, serve these Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—your taste buds will thank you!
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Experimenting: Feel free to add your favorites like nuts or toffee bits for a delicious crunch; this flexibility makes them fun and unique every time!
Make Ahead Options
These Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in a decadent dessert without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate it. For the cream cheese topping, whip it up and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled batter into the pan and bake as directed. After baking, frost with the topping just before serving to ensure it stays light and fluffy. Enjoy the same rich flavors and textures, making dessert night a breeze for busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies?
The perfect brownie deserves an equally delightful companion to elevate your dessert experience to new heights.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the soft, fudgy texture, creating a heavenly bite. Drizzling chocolate sauce over the top adds an extra layer of indulgence.
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Fresh Berries: Staining the plate with juicy raspberries or strawberries provides a burst of freshness that cuts through the sweetness. Their tartness beautifully complements the rich flavors of the brownies.
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Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup of espresso offers a delightful pick-me-up, enhancing the chocolatey notes of the brownies. This pairing warms the soul—perfect for cozy evenings.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a lovely touch of elegance, giving your decadent brownies a lighthearted balance. Consider infusing it with vanilla or almond extract for an extra twist.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dark chocolate not only enhances the look but intensifies the overall chocolate experience, creating a truly decadent dessert.
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Milk or Almond Milk: A classic cold glass of milk provides the perfect creamy base that compliments the richness of the brownies, making each bite feel utterly satisfying.
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Cheese Platter: For an adventurous pairing, a light cheese platter with mild brie or soft goat cheese creates a savory counterpoint to the sweetness, intriguing your palate with delicious contrast.
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Nutty Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce elevates the flavors and brings added sweetness; pairing it with a sprinkle of sea salt can create an exquisite flavor balance.
Choose your favorites to craft the ultimate dessert experience with these Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies!
Storage Tips for Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies
- Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their fudgy texture and flavor.
- Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, keep them in the fridge for up to a week, but let them warm slightly before serving for the best taste.
- Freezer: Freeze the brownies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
- Reheating: For a delightful experience, reheat brownies in the microwave for a few seconds until warm, enhancing the decadence of the Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies.
Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for the brownies?
I recommend using salted butter for that rich flavor, but unsalted butter works well too. Just remember to adjust the salt in the recipe if you opt for unsalted butter!
How do I store the brownies properly?
Store your Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them to enjoy for up to a week.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. They will maintain their deliciousness for up to 1-2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm them slightly in the microwave for an extra fudgy treat!
What if my brownies turn out too dense or tough?
To keep your brownies fluffy and tender, it’s crucial to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined—over-mixing will lead to dense brownies. Also, remember to bake them until just set around the edges while still soft in the center.
Can I make these brownies vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, you can! For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) or unsweetened applesauce. For gluten-free brownies, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. They will still taste delicious—trust me!
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re concerned about allergies, be mindful that these brownies contain gluten, dairy, and eggs. For those with dairy allergies, opt for dairy-free cream cheese and non-dairy alternatives for the heavy cream. Enjoy these brownies safe and sound!
Decadent Brown Butter Red Velvet Brownies You’ll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the salted butter, stirring frequently until it turns golden brown and emits a nutty aroma. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Whisk Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine unsweetened cocoa powder, dark chocolate chips, olive oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
- Add Brown Butter: Stir the cooled brown butter gently into the mixture, followed by the all-natural red gel food coloring, until everything is uniformly colored and blended.
- Fold in Dry Ingredients: Carefully add flour and salt to the bowl, folding them in until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to ensure your brownies remain fluffy.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the brownie batter into a greased 8x8" pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before moving on to the frosting. This step helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.
- Make the Cream Cheese Topping: In a bowl, whip together cream cheese, heavy cream, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Frost the Brownies: Spread the whipped cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled brownies. Just before serving, dust lightly with cocoa powder for that elegant finish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Cut into squares and savor the moment, whether warm or at room temperature!