Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting

Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting are the cutest brownie bites ever! Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a sweet treat at home, these brownies will steal the show. Their rich red color and creamy frosting make them not only delicious but visually stunning. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or want to impress your guests at a dessert party, these brownies are sure to get some attention!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate and vanilla bean cream cheese creates a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have these delightful treats ready in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From birthdays to anniversaries, these mini brownies fit perfectly into any celebration.
• Cute Presentation: Their mini size makes them adorable and easy to serve at gatherings.
• Versatile Toppings: You can customize them with various toppings like sprinkles or fresh berries for an extra touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and enhance your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 baking pan
• Heavy-duty foil
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 baking pan: The perfect size for creating bite-sized brownies that are easy to cut and serve.
• Electric mixer: Ensures smooth cream cheese frosting without lumps, giving you a velvety finish.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl and ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

• 1 stick unsalted butter, cut into chunks
• 1 3/4 cups Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Chips
• 2 large eggs + 1 egg yolk (room temperature)
• 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring gel
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Ghirardelli unsweetened cocoa powder

For the Frosting

• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (I used Nielsen-Massey)
• 3-4 cups confectioners sugar

How to Make Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your brownies bake evenly and rise perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line an 8×8 baking pan with heavy-duty foil. Make sure to leave some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the foil with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Melt the Butter and Chocolate Chips

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter and Ghirardelli milk chocolate chips together. Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat once combined.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted chocolate mixture with granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, vanilla extract, red food coloring gel, eggs, and egg yolk. Whisk until well blended.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your brownies fudgy.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly using a rubber spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Before Frosting

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the foil overhang. Once cooled, place them on a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy. Add salt, vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste), then gradually mix in confectioners’ sugar until desired consistency is reached.

Step 9: Frost the Brownies

Spread a generous layer of vanilla bean cream cheese frosting over each brownie square once they are fully cooled. Cut into small squares for serving.

Enjoy your delicious Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting! These treats are sure to be a hit!

How to Serve Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting

Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting are delightful little treats that can be served in various ways. Here are some fun and creative serving suggestions to impress your guests.

For a Festive Occasion

• Garnish with Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the frosting for a cheerful look.
• Serve on Tiered Stands: Present these brownies on a tiered cake stand to elevate their visual appeal at parties.

Pair with Beverages

• Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the brownies perfectly.
• Milkshakes: A vanilla or chocolate milkshake can balance the richness while creating a fun dessert duo.

Create Dessert Platters

• Brownie Bites Variety: Mix these brownies with other mini desserts like cheesecakes and cookies for an enticing platter.
• Fruit Accompaniments: Add fresh berries or sliced fruits to contrast the sweetness of the brownies.

How to Perfect Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting

To ensure your Mini Red Velvet Brownies come out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps in achieving a smoother batter and better blending of flavors.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold ingredients together to avoid tough brownies; mix just until combined.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the brownies to cool fully to prevent melting your frosting.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different extracts like almond for a unique twist on the vanilla flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Mini Red Velvet Brownies can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delicious options you might consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that balances the richness of the brownies.
2. Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy, chocolate mousse provides a decadent touch.
3. Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds fluffiness and lightness next to the fudge.
4. Fresh Strawberries: Their tartness contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the brownies.
5. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of caramel enhances flavor complexity and presentation.
6. Nuts or Nut Butter: Chopped nuts or a smear of nut butter can introduce crunch and additional flavor layers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and butter can affect the texture. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to tough brownies. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a fudgier result.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can ruin your brownies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.
• Not greasing the pan properly: A stuck brownie is a disappointing outcome. Use heavy-duty foil and light grease to ensure easy removal.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting brownies too soon can ruin their shape. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting can last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place brownies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one brownie at a time on high for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat and cover with a lid for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time?

Yes, they store well in the refrigerator or freezer, making them perfect for planning ahead.

What type of food coloring should I use?

Gel food coloring works best as it provides vibrant color without adding too much liquid to the batter.

How do I achieve the best texture for my brownies?

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, and avoid overmixing your batter for fudgy brownies.

Can I customize the frosting?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors like almond extract or citrus zest to the cream cheese frosting for a unique twist.

Are there any alternatives to cream cheese frosting?

You can substitute with whipped cream, buttercream, or even ganache if you prefer something different!

Final Thoughts

These Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting are not only adorable but also versatile enough for any occasion. They make an excellent dessert for parties, holidays, or simply as a sweet treat at home. Feel free to customize the frosting or add toppings like sprinkles or nuts! Try this recipe and enjoy these delightful brownie bites.

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Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting

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Mini Red Velvet Brownies with Vanilla Bean Cream Cheese Frosting are the ultimate crowd-pleasers, perfect for any occasion from birthdays to holidays. These adorable brownie bites boast a rich red hue and a creamy vanilla bean frosting that not only tastes heavenly but also looks stunning on any dessert table. They are easy to make, making them an ideal choice for both novice and seasoned bakers. With a delightful combination of chocolate and cream cheese flavors, these mini brownies are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter
• Ghirardelli milk chocolate chips
• Large eggs
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Red food coloring gel
• Cream cheese
• Vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Line an 8×8 baking pan with heavy-duty foil and lightly grease it.
3. Melt butter and chocolate chips in a saucepan over low heat until smooth.
4. Mix melted chocolate with sugars, salt, vanilla extract, food coloring, and eggs in a bowl.
5. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder; combine with wet ingredients gently.
6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Cool completely before frosting with a mixture of cream cheese, butter, salt, vanilla extract, and confectioners' sugar.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: To enhance your baking experience, use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter. Avoid overmixing to maintain a fudgy texture. For added flair, consider garnishing with colorful sprinkles or fresh berries.