If you’re someone who loves the perfect balance of rich chocolate and a touch of tangy sweetness, then this Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These bite-sized brownies bring together the moist, velvety texture of red velvet with a luscious milk chocolate base, topped with a creamy, dreamy vanilla bean-infused frosting that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re serving these at a party or sneaking one as an afternoon treat, this recipe is a delightful celebration of flavor and texture that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating that signature red velvet flavor, the fudgy texture, or the silky frosting that makes these mini brownies so irresistible. The list is simple, but every item is essential for bringing out the best in this treat.
- Unsalted butter (1 stick): Provides richness and helps melt the chocolate into a smooth, velvety base.
- Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Chips (1 3/4 cups): Adds a sweet, creamy chocolate depth that complements the red velvet perfectly.
- Large eggs (2) + egg yolk (1): Bind the batter together and contribute to the chewy, moist texture.
- Granulated sugar (5 tablespoons): Sweetens and balances the tartness of the cream cheese frosting.
- Packed brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel undertone for extra flavor complexity.
- Red food coloring gel (1 tablespoon): Gives the signature red hue that makes this dessert stand out visually and enthusiastically.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): The structural foundation of the brownies, ensuring just the right crumb.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces): Essential for that tangy, creamy frosting that is the hallmark of red velvet treats.
- Confectioners’ sugar (3-4 cups): Used to sweeten the frosting while keeping it smooth and fluffy.
How to Make Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350°F and lining an 8×8 inch baking pan with heavy-duty foil. Don’t forget to lightly grease the foil; this makes removing the brownies easier later and helps keep the edges deliciously chewy.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate
Place the unsalted butter and Ghirardelli milk chocolate chips in a saucepan on low heat. Stir gently until everything melts into a silky, glossy mixture. This marriage of butter and chocolate is what gives these brownies their delectably smooth and fudgy foundation.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Into a mixing bowl, whisk together your melted chocolate-butter mixture with eggs, the additional egg yolk, granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, a pinch of salt, pure vanilla extract, and the vibrant red food coloring gel. Whisk until the ingredients become well combined and the rich red color shines through.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder. Slowly fold this dry mixture into your wet ingredients. The key here is to mix just until combined — you want a tender crumb, not a tough brownie. This step is what balances the softness with structure in the brownies.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour your luscious batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Patience here pays off in the form of perfectly baked mini red velvet brownies.
Step 6: Make the Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting
While the brownies are cooling, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until silky smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, beating continuously until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. This frosting is the signature topping that elevates every bite of the Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.
Step 7: Frost and Chill
Once your brownies have cooled completely, spread the vanilla bean cream cheese frosting generously on top. This layer adds a creamy contrast and a touch of tang that perfectly complements the deep chocolate and subtle red velvet flavor.
How to Serve Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling finely chopped pecans or crushed freeze-dried raspberries on top of your frosted brownies for a pop of color and a delightful crunchy texture. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted white chocolate also adds a beautiful finishing touch that’s sure to impress.
Side Dishes
These mini brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert experience. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries make a refreshing side, balancing the sweetness with bright, juicy notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these mini brownies on a decorative platter with edible flowers or arrange them in mini cupcake liners for a neat and inviting look. For parties, consider stacking them as small towers or incorporating them into a dessert charcuterie board with nuts, fruits, and other sweets.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover brownies in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days, ensuring you can enjoy these little bites of heaven even after your celebration.
Freezing
You can freeze these mini red velvet brownies with the frosting on or off. To freeze with frosting, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They will keep well for up to 2 months, making them perfect for preparing ahead for special occasions.
Reheating
For the best flavor and texture, allow frozen brownies to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If you prefer a soft, warm brownie, heat gently for 10-15 seconds in the microwave. Just be careful not to overheat and melt the delicate cream cheese frosting.
FAQs
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?
Yes, you can. Dutch-processed cocoa powder tends to have a milder, smoother flavor and darker color, but regular cocoa powder will still deliver that rich chocolaty taste. Just be mindful the color might be slightly lighter.
Is there a substitute for the red food coloring gel?
You can try natural colorants like beet juice or powdered freeze-dried raspberries, but keep in mind the color may be less vibrant. The gel food coloring also adds a bit of moisture and richness to the batter.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure, or add it as needed.
What if I don’t have Ghirardelli milk chocolate chips?
Any good quality milk chocolate chips or even chopped milk chocolate bars will work well. It’s best to use chocolate that melts smoothly and isn’t too sweet so the balance with the cream cheese frosting remains perfect.
How thick should I spread the frosting?
Feel free to be generous! A good half-inch layer works beautifully to complement the fudgy brownie without overpowering it. Just ensure the brownies are completely cooled before frosting so it doesn’t melt.
Final Thoughts
Treating yourself or your loved ones to these Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is an absolute joy. Every bite delivers a perfect combination of moist, chocolaty, and tangy flavors that feel both indulgent and comforting. Once you try them, they will quickly become a beloved go-to dessert for any occasion. So go ahead, give this recipe a whirl and enjoy a sweet moment of happiness in every mini brownie!
Print
Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting combine the rich, chocolaty flavor of red velvet with a smooth, creamy frosting for a delightful treat. Moist and tender, these brownies are perfect for any celebration or dessert craving, offering a unique twist on traditional brownies with a luscious cream cheese topping.
Ingredients
Brownies
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 1 3/4 cups Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Chips
- 2 large eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring gel
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean extract or vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the brownies.
- Prepare Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with heavy-duty foil and lightly grease it to prevent sticking and make removal easy.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter together with the Ghirardelli milk chocolate chips. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk the melted chocolate and butter mixture with the 2 large eggs, 1 egg yolk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and red food coloring gel until the batter is smooth and evenly colored.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet chocolate batter, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender brownies.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Prepare Frosting: While the brownies are cooling, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla bean extract, beating until the frosting reaches your desired sweetness and consistency.
- Frost Brownies: Once the brownies have cooled completely, remove them from the pan using the foil edges. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
- Serve: Cut into approximately 16 squares and serve. Enjoy these rich, moist red velvet brownies topped with a luscious vanilla bean cream cheese frosting!
Notes
- Use heavy-duty foil to easily lift the brownies out of the pan without breaking.
- Ensure the brownies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting the cream cheese frosting.
- Adjust the amount of confectioners’ sugar in the frosting to your preferred sweetness level.
- Red food coloring gel provides vibrant color without affecting batter consistency; you can use liquid coloring but expect lighter color.
