Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (for frosting)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- A splash of vanilla (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir in granulated and brown sugars until fully blended.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the batter is smooth and glossy.
- Mix in vanilla extract and red food coloring until evenly blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold this into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow brownies to cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting by beating cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth, then frost cooled brownies and sprinkle with cocoa powder or crushed nuts if desired.
Notes
Swirling the cream cheese frosting can create a marbled effect. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies fudgy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian