Red Velvet Brookies

Half red velvet brownie, half chocolate chip cookie, these Red Velvet Brookies are the ultimate combination of two dessert favorites! Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat at home, they bring together rich flavors and a beautiful color. These brookies are fudgy and delicious, making them a standout dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple pantry ingredients, you can whip up these brookies without any fuss.
• Deliciously Decadent: The combination of red velvet and chocolate chip cookies creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party or a cozy night in, these brookies fit right in.
• Visually Stunning: The vibrant red color makes these desserts eye-catching and appealing.
• Great for Sharing: With 24 servings, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to create delightful Red Velvet Brookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking pan
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Baking pan: Ensures even cooking and proper shape for your brookies.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down sides of bowls to incorporate all ingredients.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Red Velvet Brookies:

For the Brownie Layer

• Cooking spray
• 2/3 cup unsalted butter, at room temp
• 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the Cookie Layer

• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 Tablespoon red food coloring
• 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour

How to Make Red Velvet Brookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring that your brookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a baking pan with cooking spray. This will help prevent sticking so you can easily remove your brookies after baking.

Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together:
1. Unsalted butter (at room temperature)
2. Light brown sugar
3. White sugar
4. Vanilla extract
5. Kosher salt

Once combined, add the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Gradually mix in all-purpose flour and baking powder until just combined.

Step 4: Make the Cookie Batter

In another bowl, combine:
1. Melted unsalted butter
2. White sugar
3. Unsweetened cocoa powder
4. Vanilla extract
5. Red food coloring
6. White vinegar

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, fold in all-purpose flour until fully mixed but don’t overmix; it should be thick.

Step 5: Layer the Batters in the Pan

Start by spreading the brownie batter evenly across the bottom of your prepared pan. Then dollop spoonfuls of the cookie batter on top of the brownie layer, gently swirling them together with a knife for a marbled effect.

Step 6: Bake Your Brookies

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Let cool before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delightful Red Velvet Brookies!

How to Serve Red Velvet Brookies

These Red Velvet Brookies are not only delicious but also versatile in how they can be served. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, presenting them well can elevate the experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a delightful contrast to the rich brookies. Serve a dollop on top for an elegant touch.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair your brookies with a scoop of vanilla or cream cheese ice cream. The coldness complements the warm, fudgy texture beautifully.

Fresh Berries

• A side of fresh raspberries or strawberries brings a burst of freshness and color to your dessert plate. They also enhance the flavor profile of the brookies.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce over your brookies creates an indulgent treat. Warm the sauce slightly for an enticing finish.

Sprinkled with Powdered Sugar

• Dusting your brookies with powdered sugar can add a simple yet sophisticated look. It’s perfect for a sprinkle of sweetness without overpowering the flavors.

How to Perfect Red Velvet Brookies

To ensure your Red Velvet Brookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips for baking success.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even mixing.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough brookies. Stir just until combined for a tender texture.
• Check your oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, which is crucial for even cooking.
• Let them cool before cutting: Allowing the brookies to cool completely helps them set properly, making slicing easier without crumbling.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Try adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips for unique flavors and textures in each batch.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Brookies

Pairing side dishes with Red Velvet Brookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options that work wonderfully together.

1. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and lightness that balances the richness of the brookies.
2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses complements the sweet flavors perfectly and offers a savory contrast.
3. Chocolate Fondue
   Dip pieces of fruit or extra brownie pieces into warm chocolate fondue for an interactive dessert experience.
4. Nutty Granola
   Crunchy granola provides texture and can be served as a sprinkle on top or alongside the brookies for added crunch.
5. Coffee or Espresso
   A warm cup enhances the chocolate flavors and makes for a delightful pairing, especially after dinner.
6. Mini Pastry Bites
   Light pastry bites filled with cream or fruit offer additional variety without overwhelming sweetness next to the brookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Red Velvet Brookies, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Boldly measure your ingredients: Not measuring accurately can lead to inconsistent results. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients.
• Boldly overlook room temperature butter: Using cold butter can affect the texture of your brookies. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Boldly skip the mixing step: Overmixing or undermixing can ruin the consistency. Mix until just combined to keep the texture perfect.
• Boldly ignore cooling time: Cutting into brookies too soon can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool in the pan before slicing for better results.
• Boldly forget to line your baking dish: Skipping parchment paper or greasing can lead to sticking. Always prepare your baking dish for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Freezing Red Velvet Brookies

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Red Velvet Brookies

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Bold Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Red Velvet Brookies:

What are Red Velvet Brookies?

Red Velvet Brookies combine two delicious desserts—red velvet brownies and chocolate chip cookies—creating a rich and fudgy treat.

How do I know when my Red Velvet Brookies are done?

Check for a slight jiggle in the center; they will firm up as they cool. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs.

Can I customize my Red Velvet Brookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, different types of chocolate chips, or even swirl in cream cheese for added flavor.

What can I substitute if I don’t have red food coloring?

You can use beet juice as a natural alternative, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

How should I store leftover Red Velvet Brookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you prefer them chilled.

Final Thoughts

Red Velvet Brookies are a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. Their rich texture and beautiful color make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings, ensuring every bite is as unique as you are!