Red Velvet Brownies: A Decadent Delight
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful treat that combines the richness of brownies with the vibrant tang of red velvet? Look no further! This recipe will guide you through creating red velvet brownies that are intensely fudgy, intensely delicious, and guaranteed to impress. Get ready to experience the perfect blend of chocolate and crimson in every bite!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 16 brownies. Adjust quantities accordingly if you need more (or less!) of this deliciousness.
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel is recommended for best color)
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
Optional additions for extra decadence:
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Brownie Bliss
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This preparation is key to preventing sticking and ensuring easy removal of your beautiful brownies.
Mixing the Batter:
- In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, leading to a lighter texture.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Stir in the red food coloring and vinegar. The vinegar helps to activate the food coloring and intensifies the red hue. The color will deepen as it bakes.
- If using, gently fold in the chocolate chips and nuts.
Baking to Perfection:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Overbaking will result in dry brownies, so keep a close eye on them!
- Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows them to set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
Serving Suggestions & Storage
These red velvet brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them even further! Consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate ganache.
For storage, keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They freeze beautifully too! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
Tips for Red Velvet Brownie Success:
- Use gel food coloring: Gel food coloring provides a more vibrant and intense color than liquid food coloring.
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
- Let them cool completely: Cooling completely allows the brownies to set and makes them easier to cut.
This recipe is your ticket to creating irresistible red velvet brownies that will be the star of any dessert table. Enjoy the process, and savor every delicious bite! Remember to share your creations with friends and family – they'll thank you for it!
