There’s a certain enchantment that comes with the first bite of a freshly baked treat, and these Red Velvet Brookies are no exception. Imagine the delightful combination of rich, chocolatey brownie meets soft, chewy cookie, all nestled together in a warm embrace of festive red. When my friends gathered for a casual get-together, I was on a quest to elevate the dessert table with something unique and truly indulgent. That’s when I stumbled upon this mouthwatering recipe that has since become my go-to for any occasion.
Perfectly crispy edges yield to a gooey center filled with velvety chocolate chips, creating a dessert that pleases both kids and grown-ups alike. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or simply a cozy night at home, these brookies will have you craving more with every bite. Join me as we dive into this easy and delicious recipe that transforms the ordinary into something spectacular—prepare to brighten up your table and your taste buds with these irresistible Red Velvet Brookies!
Why will you love Red Velvet Brookies?
Decadent flavor: The fusion of rich cocoa and buttery cookie creates an unforgettable taste experience that’s hard to resist.
Simple preparation: You don’t need to be a baking expert—whip these up in just an hour!
Perfect for sharing: With 24 servings, they are ideal for gatherings or celebrations, guaranteed to impress your guests.
Eye-catching appeal: The stunning red hue adds a festive touch to any dessert table, making them a showstopper.
Gooey chocolate goodness: The combination of chocolate chips in a chewy cookie and a fudgy brownie is simply divine!
For more delightful dessert ideas, check out our easy dessert recipes.
Red Velvet Brookies Ingredients
Transform your baking moment with these essential ingredients for the decadent Red Velvet Brookies!
For the Cookie Layer
- Unsalted butter – 2/3 cup at room temp helps achieve a creamy texture.
- Light brown sugar – 1 1/2 cups packed adds moisture and depth of flavor.
- White sugar – 1 cup balances the sweetness with a crispy texture.
- Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons infuse a warm, inviting aroma.
- Kosher salt – 1/2 teaspoon enhances all the delicious flavors.
- Large eggs – 3 help bind the ingredients and create a tender crumb.
- All-purpose flour – 3 cups provide structure to the cookies.
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon gives the cookies a little rise.
- Chocolate chips – 1 cup for gooey pockets of chocolate goodness.
For the Red Velvet Layer
- Unsalted butter – 1/2 cup melted to keep the batter rich and moist.
- White sugar – 1 cup for sweetness that complements the cocoa.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – 1/4 cup adds a rich chocolatey flavor.
- Vanilla extract – 1/2 teaspoon ensures a delightful scent throughout.
- Red food coloring – 1 tablespoon makes those brookies pop with color!
- White vinegar – 1/2 teaspoon reacts with the baking soda for a perfect rise.
- Large eggs – 2 provide moisture and structure to the brownies.
- Kosher salt – 1/8 teaspoon rounds out the sweet flavors.
- All-purpose flour – 3/4 cup combines to create that fudgy brownie layer.
How to Make Red Velvet Brookies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare a 13×9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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Cream together 2/3 cup room temperature unsalted butter, 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar, and 1 cup white sugar in a stand mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides as needed!
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Add 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt into the mix, beating until everything is well combined. Then, introduce 3 large eggs into your batter one at a time, making sure to beat well between each addition.
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Incorporate 3 cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon baking powder into the mixture, beating just until everything is combined. Gently fold in 1 cup chocolate chips, then set the batter aside.
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Whisk together melted 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup white sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon red food coloring in a large bowl. Add 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar, 2 large eggs, and 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt, mixing until smooth.
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Fold in 3/4 cup all-purpose flour into the red velvet mixture until just combined; be careful not to overmix!
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Layer alternating scoops of cookie batter and red velvet brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
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Bake the brookies in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the cookie layer is golden and the brownies are set. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
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Sprinkle with sea salt immediately after removing them from the oven. Allow the brookies to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving them to your eager guests.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Brookies?
Indulging in these Red Velvet Brookies is a delightful experience, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can take your dessert game to the next level!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the rich flavors, creating a heavenly combination. A scoop on the side will elevate every bite!
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing burst of flavor and cut through the sweetness, making each spoonful a delight. These vibrant fruits also enhance the visual appeal of your dessert table.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over your brookies for extra indulgence. It enhances the chocolatey goodness and creates a luxurious dessert experience that chocolate lovers won’t resist.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a soft and fluffy texture, perfectly balancing the richness of the brookies. It’s a classic choice that brings a touch of elegance to your dessert.
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Coffee or Espresso: A cup of strong coffee or rich espresso complements the sweetness and enhances the chocolate notes. Sip it alongside your brookies for a cozy companion!
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Milkshake: Treat yourself to a decadent milkshake made with chocolate or vanilla ice cream, which will create a delightful pairing for your brookies. The milkshake provides a fun, nostalgic twist to your dessert experience.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of the brookies for an extra layer of flavor. The tanginess cuts through the sweetness and adds a gourmet touch to each bite.
With these delightful pairings, your Red Velvet Brookies will surely shine as the star of any gathering!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Red Velvet Brookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep both the cookie batter and red velvet brownie mix up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the batters are combined, then store each in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, allow the batters to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before layering them in your baking pan and baking as directed. This time-saving approach ensures you can enjoy homemade goodness even on those busy days, delivering that same irresistible flavor with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Brookies
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming, which leads to a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the flour to your mixtures, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brookies!
- Layering Technique: For a beautiful marbled effect, use an ice cream scoop to alternate the cookie and brownie batters carefully in the pan.
- Watch the Bake Time: Ovens can vary; keep an eye on your brookies to prevent drying out. They’ll be perfect when the cookie edges are golden!
- Cooling is Key: Allow them to cool completely in the pan. This helps them set up nicely for perfect slices and prevents them from falling apart.
- Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkling sea salt right out of the oven enhances the sweetness and adds a gourmet touch to your Red Velvet Brookies.
Red Velvet Brookies Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful treats and surprise your loved ones with unique flavors!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a safe alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Add a Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a delicious nutty flavor.
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White Chocolate Swirls: Replace chocolate chips with 1 cup of white chocolate chips for a creamier, sweeter experience.
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Minty Fresh: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cookie batter for a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
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Spiced Brownies: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the brownie layer to warm up the flavors with cozy spices.
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Fruity Zest: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon into the batter for a bright citrus twist that offsets the richness.
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Extra Fudgy: Swap half of the all-purpose flour in the brownie layer for an extra 1/4 cup of cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate experience.
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Layered Frosting: Top your cooled brookies with a cream cheese or vanilla frosting to take them to a whole new level of indulgence!
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Brookies
Room Temperature: Keep your brookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you’d like to store them longer, place the brookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the brookies in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for a few seconds.
Reheating: To bring back that fresh-baked feel, warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes. Enjoy every gooey bite of your Red Velvet Brookies!
Red Velvet Brookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for my Red Velvet Brookies?
Absolutely, using the right ingredients makes all the difference! For the best results, use room temperature unsalted butter for a creamy batter, ensuring your eggs are also at room temperature. Fresh chocolate chips will melt beautifully, adding to the gooey texture, so opt for a brand you love. Lastly, when choosing your red food coloring, go for a gel or liquid type without artificial flavors for a vibrant hue.
What’s the best way to store leftover Red Velvet Brookies?
Very good question! To keep your brookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, they can also be placed in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just let them come back to room temperature before serving—they’ll still taste delightful!
Can I freeze my Red Velvet Brookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your brookies, first let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that fresh-baked warmth.
What should I do if my brookies are too dry or crumbly?
If your Red Velvet Brookies turn out dry, it’s often due to overbaking or too much flour. To avoid this in the future, always measure flour correctly—scoop with a spoon into the measuring cup and level it off. If you notice them starting to dry out, keeping an eye on your bake time can help. Remember that ovens vary, so check for doneness a few minutes early!
Are these Red Velvet Brookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Very much so! This recipe is nut-free, making it a safe choice for guests with nut allergies. Just be mindful of the chocolate chips you choose; some brands may be produced in facilities that handle nuts. Always check the packaging to ensure they meet your dietary needs!
Can my pets enjoy the Red Velvet Brookies too?
No, unfortunately, it’s not safe for pets to enjoy these brookies! Ingredients like chocolate can be harmful to dogs and other pets, so it’s best to keep those delicious treats just for you and your guests. Instead, consider making a pet-friendly treat tailored for them!
Decadent Red Velvet Brookies for Ultimate Dessert Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare a 13×9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cream together 2/3 cup room temperature unsalted butter, 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar, and 1 cup white sugar in a stand mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt into the mix, beating until everything is well combined.
- Introduce 3 large eggs into your batter one at a time, making sure to beat well between each addition.
- Incorporate 3 cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon baking powder into the mixture, beating just until everything is combined.
- Gently fold in 1 cup chocolate chips, then set the batter aside.
- Whisk together melted 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup white sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon red food coloring.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar, 2 large eggs, and 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt, mixing until smooth.
- Fold in 3/4 cup all-purpose flour into the red velvet mixture until just combined.
- Layer alternating scoops of cookie batter and red velvet brownie batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the brookies in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the cookie layer is golden and the brownies are set.
- Sprinkle with sea salt immediately after removing them from the oven.
- Allow the brookies to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
