If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that combines rich chocolate and luscious red velvet flavors in an adorable shape, this Red Velvet Brownie Hearts Recipe is exactly what you need. These treats deliver the perfect balance of fudgy texture and velvety taste wrapped up in charming heart shapes that make every bite feel like a sweet celebration. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe offers a delightful twist that will win hearts and satisfy chocolate cravings all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, classic ingredients come together to create these irresistible Red Velvet Brownie Hearts. Each item plays a crucial role, from the butter giving richness to the cocoa powder adding depth, ensuring these brownies are both flavorful and beautifully textured.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides a rich, moist base for the brownies.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter perfectly without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add structure.
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavor profiles with warmth.
- 2 tbsp red food coloring: Gives the signature vibrant red hue that makes these brownies festive.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The main structure provider for tender brownies.
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds subtle chocolate depth to complement the red velvet flavor.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the brownies rise slightly, keeping them soft and tender.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang that makes red velvet so beloved.
- 1 tsp white vinegar: Reacts with the baking powder and buttermilk to keep the texture light.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: For the luscious swirled topping that adds creaminess.
- ¼ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese swirl smoothly.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (additional): Elevates the cream cheese mixture’s flavor.
How to Make Red Velvet Brownie Hearts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Setup
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). To ensure the brownies slide right out, either grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. If you want to make individual heart-shaped treats right from the start, heart-shaped silicone molds work beautifully. This step sets you up for easy bake and removal later on.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and sugar until they’re perfectly combined and silky. Then add the eggs one at a time, giving each a good mix to ensure even incorporation. Next, stir in the vanilla extract and the all-important red food coloring that gives these brownies their dazzling hue. This mixture is the foundation of all the flavor and color.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. These dry components bring both tender crumb and rich chocolate undertones. Gradually add them to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, so everything blends without overmixing. Finally, add the white vinegar and give one final stir to activate the leavening power that keeps the brownies delightfully soft.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl
Whip the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until it’s smooth and fluffy. If you’re feeling creative and want to elevate the look and taste of your Red Velvet Brownie Hearts Recipe, dollop this creamy mixture over the brownie batter and gently swirl it with a knife or toothpick. This adds a gorgeous marbled effect and a luscious burst of flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared pan or molds, smoothing the surface carefully. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick poked into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. This timing is key for achieving the perfect fudgy texture without drying out your brownies.
Step 6: Cool and Shape
Once baked, allow your brownies to cool entirely in the pan, which helps them set and makes cutting easier. Afterward, if you baked in a pan, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to turn the brownies into the charming Red Velvet Brownie Hearts that steal the show. If you used silicone molds, they’re ready to enjoy right away!
Step 7: Enjoy and Share
Now for the best part! Dive into your soft, fudgy Red Velvet Brownie Hearts Recipe treats that will have everyone asking for more. They make wonderful Valentine’s Day gifts, party desserts, or simply a decadent way to sweeten any day.
How to Serve Red Velvet Brownie Hearts Recipe
Garnishes
To make these brownie hearts even more special, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a pop of freshness and color, perfectly complementing the richness of the brownies.
Side Dishes
Pair your Red Velvet Brownie Hearts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to create an irresistible dessert duo. A hot cup of coffee or a creamy chai latte also make fantastic companions for these sweet bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a memorable presentation, arrange the Red Velvet Brownie Hearts on a platter lined with fresh rose petals or festive holiday greenery. Gift-wrap them in parchment paper tied with twine for sweet homemade gifts that show extra care and love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These brownies stay fresh for several days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping them this way preserves their moist, fudgy texture while maintaining the cream cheese swirl’s freshness.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Red Velvet Brownie Hearts Recipe treats longer, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze well for up to two months, making them perfect to prepare ahead for parties or special events.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy frozen brownies, let them thaw at room temperature. For that freshly baked feel, warm them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds—just enough to soften without melting the cream cheese swirl.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
While regular milk can work in a pinch, buttermilk is preferred because its acidity reacts with the baking powder and vinegar to create a tender, fluffy texture characteristic of red velvet baked goods.
Do I have to use red food coloring?
Red food coloring is essential for achieving the signature red hue of red velvet brownies. Without it, the brownies will be more of a chocolate color but still delicious.
Can I make these brownies dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives, and use plant-based milk with a little lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk. This way, your Red Velvet Brownie Hearts Recipe can be enjoyed by those with dietary restrictions.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures they’re fudgy yet cooked through.
Can I skip the cream cheese swirl?
Absolutely! The brownies will still be fantastic without it, but the cream cheese swirl adds a delicious tangy contrast and pretty marbled look that makes this recipe so special.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say, this Red Velvet Brownie Hearts Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. The combination of vibrant color, rich flavor, and heartwarming presentation makes it perfect for celebrations or everyday indulgence. Grab your supplies and give it a try—you’re about to create some memorable, mouthwatering moments with these delightfully tender brownies!
Print
Red Velvet Brownie Hearts Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these soft, fudgy Red Velvet Brownie Hearts—a perfect Valentine’s Day treat featuring a rich red velvet brownie base swirled with creamy vanilla cream cheese. Baked to perfection, these heart-shaped brownies combine a tender crumb with a subtle cocoa flavor and a tangy cream cheese swirl for an irresistible dessert that’s ideal for sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp white vinegar
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal, or use heart-shaped silicone molds for individual brownie portions.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar, stirring until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and red food coloring until evenly incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, mixing just until combined. Finally, add vinegar and stir to incorporate.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Swirl: In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. For the swirl effect, spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter, and gently swirl with a knife or toothpick.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the prepared brownie batter into the lined or greased pan or molds. Smooth the top evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Shape: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out individual heart-shaped brownies.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve these indulgently soft Red Velvet Brownie Hearts as a special treat or gift, perfect for Valentine’s Day or any loved-ones celebration.
Notes
- Use heart-shaped silicone molds to skip the cutting step and bake directly in heart shapes.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to make swirling easier and ensure a smooth texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the brownies tender and fudgy.
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkle edible glitter or red sugar on top before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
