Fudgy Red Velvet Cake Mix Brownies
Fudgy Red Velvet Cake Mix Brownies are a rich and simple recipe that anyone can make, even on busy days. With just a boxed cake mix, a few simple ingredients, and a luscious cream cheese frosting, you’ll have a dessert perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or family gatherings.
Servings: brownies
Equipment
- 1 Electric mixer
- 1 8x8 inch cake pan
Ingredients
Brownies
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup melted butter, unsalted slightly cooled
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 375 grams 1 box Red Velvet Cake mix Betty Crocker
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Cream Cheese frosting
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter room temperature
- 8 ounces (1 block) full-fat cream cheese frosting room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups powdered sugar Sifted. Measured using the spoon-and-level method
Instructions
Brownies
- Line your prepared pan with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray. This makes lifting the brownies out easier after they’ve cooled.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, melted butter, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.2 large eggs, 1/2 cup melted butter, unsalted, 2 tablespoons sour cream, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Add the red velvet cake mix and stir with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula. The red velvet brownie batter will be thick - this is exactly what creates that fudgy texture.375 grams 1 box Red Velvet Cake mix
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top of the brownies, or fold them into the batter for pockets of melted chocolate.1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake in a metal pan at 350°F until the edges are set, but the center of the brownies looks slightly soft. For best results, look for moist crumbs that cling to a toothpick, rather than completely dry crumbs.
- Cool completely in a single layer before adding frosting.
Cream Cheese frosting
- Beat the butter, vanilla extract, and salt on medium speed with a hand mixer until fluffy.1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Mix in the cream cheese until just combined, then add powdered sugar slowly, beating until smooth.8 ounces (1 block) full-fat cream cheese frosting, 4 cups powdered sugar
- Spread evenly over the top of the brownies with a rubber spatula. Slice into squares and enjoy.
Notes
Expert Tips
- Always let butter and cream cheese come to room temperature before making the frosting to avoid lumps.
- Use a kitchen scale if possible for the most accurate measurements.
- Line your cake pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift out brownies easily.
- Cool completely before frosting - the best way to avoid melting your cream cheese icing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these red velvet brownies ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the brownie layer, let it cool, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Frost before serving.How do I store these brownies?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days because of the cream cheese frostingCan I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely. Slice and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge.Do I have to frost these brownies?
The cream cheese frosting adds a classic red velvet flavor, but you can skip it or try a drizzle of dark chocolate instead.How do I know when the brownies are done?
Check the center of the brownies with a toothpick. Look for moist crumbs, not wet batter, for the best results.Can I add food coloring to make the red velvet color more vibrant?
Yes, if your boxed cake mix looks dull, you can add a drop or two of red gel food coloring for a vibrant red color.Can I double this recipe?
Definitely! Use a larger cake pan (like 9x13) and keep an eye on the bake time. The center of the brownies may take a few extra minutes.Can I use a glass baking dish instead of a metal pan?
Yes, but note that glass pans often require a longer bake time. For best results, start checking for moist crumbs a few minutes later.Do I need to refrigerate the frosting before spreading it?
No, you can spread the cream cheese frosting right away. Just make sure the brownies are fully cooled so the frosting doesn’t melt.