If you’re dreaming of a treat that’s luxuriously chocolatey, vibrantly red, and absolutely irresistible, look no further than these Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies. They’re the ultimate fusion of dense, fudgy brownies with that classic red velvet tang, all crowned by a dreamy chocolate kiss. Whether you’re baking to impress a sweetheart or just want a little extra romance in your everyday dessert, this recipe delivers show-stopping appeal with that signature velvety bite. Once you try them, you’ll see why Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies are love at first taste!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies come together with everyday pantry staples, but each ingredient brings its own special magic to the party. From the deep flavor of cocoa to an eye-catching hue thanks to red food coloring, every element adds its own layer of indulgence or vibrant personality to these brownies.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): The backbone of fudgy brownies, butter brings moisture, richness, and a glorious melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens every bite while keeping the brownies soft and slightly chewy.
- Large eggs (2): Provide lift, structure, and help bind all the ingredients together for that perfect brownie crumb.
- Red food coloring (1 tablespoon): Gives Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies their iconic color—just a splash transforms the whole pan into a visual delight!
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the cocoa’s undertones and adds warmth to every bite.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (⅓ cup): Delivers that distinct chocolate flavor—the heart of every true red velvet dessert.
- All-purpose flour (¾ cup): The base that provides structure without weighing the brownies down.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Just a pinch balances sweetness and makes the chocolate flavors pop.
- White vinegar (½ teaspoon): The secret ingredient in red velvet—vinegar interacts with cocoa, deepening flavor and adding a subtle tangy note.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (¼ cup, optional): For little pockets of melty chocolate in every slice.
- Chocolate kisses (12, unwrapped): The literal kiss on top! Pressed in while warm, they melt just enough for a dreamy, creamy finish.
How to Make Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking—trust me, this makes brownie removal a breeze!
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture looks smooth and glossy. This helps dissolve the sugar a bit and forms the fudgy foundation for your Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Color, and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs, pour in that bright red food coloring, and add the vanilla extract. Mix until fully blended, watching your batter transform into a brilliant red hue—this is where the magic (and the fun!) happens.
Step 4: Stir in the Dry Ingredients
Sift in the cocoa powder, then add the flour and salt. Stir gently until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep the brownies tender instead of tough.
Step 5: Finish the Batter
Blend in the vinegar (it helps activate the cocoa and gives that vintage red velvet twist) and gently fold in chocolate chips if you’re using them. The batter should be thick, glossy, and full of promise.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the finished batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 20–24 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs—don’t overbake, or you’ll lose that fudgy heart!
Step 7: Top with Chocolate Kisses
As soon as you pull the pan out of the oven, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each warm brownie. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares—the kisses will remain creamy, never fully hardening, adding a delightful texture to each piece.
How to Serve Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies
Garnishes
For an extra flourish, dust your brownies with powdered sugar, scatter a few edible rose petals on the plate, or drizzle with a bit of melted white chocolate. These finishing touches make Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies feel as special as they taste.
Side Dishes
Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for a cool, creamy contrast. Fresh berries—think strawberries or raspberries—add a tart burst that perfectly compliments their decadent richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies on a tiered dessert platter for parties, wrap individual pieces with a ribbon for homemade gifts, or cut them out with a heart-shaped cookie cutter to dial up the romance for Valentine’s Day or anniversaries.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days; they stay moist and delicious thanks to all that butter and sugar. If you want them extra fresh, you can also store them in the fridge (just let them come up to room temperature before serving for the best texture).
Freezing
Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies freeze beautifully! Wrap individual brownies (after cooling completely) in plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature when the craving strikes.
Reheating
To revive that fudgy warmth, microwave a brownie square on low for 10-15 seconds. This softens the chocolate kiss on top and brings back a just-baked aroma—even from frozen, just thaw before microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even caramel-filled kisses for a fun twist on classic Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies. Each brings its own flair, so don’t be afraid to play matchmaker.
How do I keep my brownies from overbaking?
Start checking the brownies at the low end of the baking time (around 20 minutes). Look for a few moist crumbs clinging to your toothpick—not a totally clean pick. They’ll continue to set as they cool, ensuring that dreamy, fudgy texture.
Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?
Definitely! Double all the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Keep a close eye on baking time—it may need a few extra minutes, but check for doneness the same way as you would the original recipe.
What’s the best way to slice brownies cleanly?
For tidy, bakery-worthy squares, let the brownies cool completely (or even chill them), then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts. This helps achieve that perfect, Instagram-worthy edge every time on your Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies.
Can I substitute natural food coloring?
Yes, you can use a natural red food coloring in place of standard options. Beet juice concentrate or powdered beetroot can work, though the color may be a little less intense. Just note that some earthy undertones may come through.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as fun to share as it is to eat, give Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies a try. They’re easy enough for a casual weekday treat yet striking enough for any special occasion. I promise, once you take that first bite, you’ll find any excuse to bake them again—don’t be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe!
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Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 34 minutes
- Yield: 12 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Kiss Me Red Velvet Brownies are the perfect treat for Valentine’s Day or any romantic occasion. Rich, fudgy red velvet brownies topped with a sweet chocolate kiss in the center.
Ingredients
Brownies:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon white vinegar
- ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
Topping:
- 12 chocolate kisses (unwrapped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Add eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.
- Add dry ingredients: Stir in cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just mixed. Mix in the vinegar and fold in chocolate chips.
- Bake: Pour batter into the pan and bake for 20–24 minutes.
- Add topping: Press a chocolate kiss into the center of each brownie while warm.
- Cool and serve: Cool completely before slicing into squares.
Notes
- For best texture, avoid overbaking.
- Chill brownies for cleaner cuts.
- Substitute kisses with cream cheese frosting if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
