Description
Delight in these luscious Red Velvet Brownies topped with a creamy White Chocolate Buttercream Frosting. Combining the rich, moist texture of classic red velvet with the decadent sweetness of white chocolate frosting, this dessert is perfect for any occasion requiring a special treat. With a smooth cocoa undertone and a vibrant red hue, these brownies are as visually stunning as they are delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
Red Velvet Brownies
- 6 Tablespoons salted butter
- 200 grams granulated sugar (1 cup)
- 55 grams light brown sugar, packed (1/4 cup)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or paste
- 80 ml vegetable oil (1/3 cup)
- 25 grams cocoa powder (3 ½ Tablespoons)
- 1/2 teaspoon red gel food coloring
- 90 grams all-purpose flour (3/4 cup)
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 Tablespoon white vinegar
White Chocolate Buttercream Frosting
- 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or paste
- 4 ounces good quality white chocolate, melted (not chips)
- 2 Tablespoons heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper on the bottom and sides, allowing an overhang of about 2 inches for easy removal.
- Melt Butter: Melt 6 tablespoons of salted butter in a microwave-safe bowl by microwaving in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted.
- Combine Sugars and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, add granulated sugar and light brown sugar. Pour in the melted butter and whisk together until well combined.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add 3 large eggs, 1 egg yolk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the sugar-butter mixture. Mix gently until integrated, being careful not to over-mix to avoid incorporating air.
- Add Oil and Cocoa: Pour in 80 ml vegetable oil and 25 grams cocoa powder, then whisk until the batter is smooth and uniform in color.
- Incorporate Red Dye: Scoop 2 tablespoons of batter into a small bowl. Mix in 1/2 teaspoon red gel food coloring thoroughly, then whisk this red batter back into the main mixture, gently combining until even in color.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Switch to a spatula and fold in 90 grams all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Fold until no flour lumps remain. Stir in 1 tablespoon white vinegar to activate the leavening effect.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool Completely: Remove brownies carefully from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan before frosting to ensure the frosting sets beautifully.
- Prepare Frosting: In a stand mixer bowl, cream 1/2 cup softened salted butter until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Add Powdered Sugar: With the mixer on low, gradually add 3 ½ cups powdered sugar, about half a cup at a time. Allow each addition to incorporate fully before adding more to prevent powdered sugar clouds and ensure smooth frosting.
- Incorporate White Chocolate: Pour in the melted white chocolate (4 ounces) and beat on medium speed until fully combined, creating a luxurious and creamy texture.
- Adjust Consistency: Add 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream and continue to beat until the frosting reaches your desired spreadable consistency.
- Frost the Brownies: Spread the white chocolate buttercream evenly over the cooled brownies, using a spatula or knife. For neat cutting, use a plastic knife.
Notes
- Ensure the brownies are completely cool before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting.
- If you prefer a more intense red color, increase the red gel food coloring slightly but do so incrementally to avoid bitterness.
- Use parchment paper with an overhang to lift the brownies easily from the pan without damage.
- For a cleaner cut, chill the brownies briefly after frosting or use a warm plastic knife to slice.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
