How Can You Create Delicious Red Velvet Brownies Using Cake Mix?

AvatarByLori Morrissey Recipes and Baking Techniques


If you’re a fan of desserts that are both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious, then red velvet brownies are sure to capture your heart. Combining the rich, velvety flavor of classic red velvet cake with the fudgy texture of brownies, this treat is perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. What makes this recipe even more appealing is its simplicity; using a cake mix as the base allows you to whip up a batch of these delightful brownies with minimal effort. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delectable!

In this article, we will explore the art of crafting red velvet brownies using cake mix, a method that not only saves time but also ensures a consistently moist and flavorful result. We’ll delve into the key ingredients that elevate this dessert, transforming a standard cake mix into a rich, decadent treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through each step, making it accessible for everyone.

Additionally, we’ll share some creative tips for enhancing your brownies, from adding cream cheese swirls to experimenting with toppings. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to create your own batch

Ingredients Required

To create delicious red velvet brownies using cake mix, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 box of red velvet cake mix
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (optional for added richness)
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup of cream cheese (optional, for cream cheese swirl)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Preparation Steps

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the brownies once baked.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir the mixture until it is well blended, ensuring there are no lumps. If you prefer a chocolatey flavor, fold in the chocolate chips at this stage.

For a cream cheese swirl, soften the cream cheese in a separate bowl and mix it with a tablespoon of sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Set aside.

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. If using the cream cheese mixture, drop spoonfuls of it on top of the brownie batter and swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.

Baking Instructions

Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

After baking, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

These red velvet brownies can be served in various ways to enhance their appeal:

  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Pair with a drizzle of chocolate or cream cheese frosting.
  • Garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.

Nutritional Information

When preparing these brownies, it’s essential to consider their nutritional content. Below is a simplified table of the estimated nutritional values per brownie (based on a batch of 12):

Nutrient Amount per Brownie
Calories 180
Total Fat 8g
Saturated Fat 2g
Cholesterol 30mg
Sodium 150mg
Total Carbohydrates 27g
Dietary Fiber 1g
Sugars 14g
Protein 2g

These brownies make for a festive treat, especially during special occasions, and are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Brownies

To create delightful red velvet brownies using cake mix, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 box of red velvet cake mix
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup of water
  • 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
  • Cream cheese frosting (for topping, optional)

Preparation Steps

Follow these straightforward steps to prepare your red velvet brownies:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
  3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and water.
  • Stir until just combined; avoid over-mixing.
  • If desired, add vanilla extract for extra flavor.
  1. Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring an even distribution throughout the batter.

Baking the Brownies

Once your batter is ready, proceed to bake the brownies:

  • Pour the Batter: Transfer the brownie batter to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  • Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
  • Cool: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares.

Optional Cream Cheese Frosting

Enhance your red velvet brownies with a simple cream cheese frosting:

  • Ingredients:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Instructions:
  1. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
  3. Stir in vanilla extract.
  4. Spread the frosting over the cooled brownies before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Red velvet brownies can be enjoyed in various ways:

  • Plain: Serve them as is for a rich dessert experience.
  • Frosted: Top with cream cheese frosting for an indulgent treat.
  • À la Mode: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or cream cheese ice cream.
  • Garnished: Add crushed nuts or sprinkles for visual appeal.

Storage Tips

To maintain freshness, store your red velvet brownies:

  • At Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerated: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Frozen: Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 3 months.

These red velvet brownies, made with cake mix, are not only easy to prepare but also provide a deliciously vibrant twist on traditional brownies. Enjoy!

Expert Insights on Making Red Velvet Brownies with Cake Mix

Jessica Hartman (Culinary Instructor, Baking Academy). “Using cake mix for red velvet brownies is a fantastic shortcut that maintains the rich flavor profile. I recommend adding a touch of cocoa powder to enhance the chocolate notes and ensure a moist texture.”

Michael Tran (Pastry Chef, Sweet Delights Bakery). “To achieve the perfect red velvet brownies, it is essential to balance the wet and dry ingredients. Incorporating buttermilk instead of water can elevate the flavor and provide a tender crumb, characteristic of traditional red velvet.”

Linda Chen (Food Blogger, Baking Bliss). “Don’t forget the cream cheese frosting! While the brownies are delightful on their own, a drizzle of cream cheese frosting adds a decadent finish that complements the red velvet beautifully.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What ingredients do I need to make red velvet brownies with cake mix?
To make red velvet brownies with cake mix, you will need a box of red velvet cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and optional ingredients such as chocolate chips or cream cheese for added flavor.

How do I prepare the cake mix for brownies?
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix with the required number of eggs and oil, mixing until well combined. The batter will be thicker than traditional cake batter.

How long should I bake the red velvet brownies?
Bake the brownies in a preheated oven for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Can I add frosting to the red velvet brownies?
Yes, adding cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze can enhance the flavor and presentation of your red velvet brownies. Allow the brownies to cool completely before applying the frosting for best results.

How do I store leftover red velvet brownies?
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free red velvet brownies by using a gluten-free cake mix instead of regular cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.
making red velvet brownies using cake mix is a straightforward and enjoyable process that allows for a delightful twist on traditional brownies. By starting with a box of red velvet cake mix, bakers can save time while still achieving a rich and flavorful dessert. The key steps involve combining the cake mix with eggs, oil, and any desired add-ins such as chocolate chips or nuts, followed by baking the mixture to perfection. This method not only simplifies the preparation but also ensures consistent results.

Additionally, the versatility of red velvet brownies means that they can be easily customized to suit personal preferences. For instance, incorporating cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of chocolate can elevate the flavor profile and presentation. Moreover, adjusting the baking time can yield either fudgy or cakey textures, catering to different tastes. This adaptability makes red velvet brownies a popular choice for various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations.

Ultimately, the process of creating red velvet brownies with cake mix is not only accessible for bakers of all skill levels but also provides an opportunity to experiment with flavors and textures. The combination of the iconic red velvet flavor with the rich, chewy nature of brownies results in a decadent treat that is sure to impress. By following the outlined steps and

Author Profile

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Lori Morrissey
Baking has always been a passion for Lori Morrissey, and over the years, it has become more than just a hobby it’s a way to connect with people, share creativity, and bring joy to others. From her early days in her grandparents’ kitchen, where she first learned the magic of homemade cookies. Encouraged by her grandfather’s prediction that she would one day sell her own baked goods.

Now experimenting in the kitchen to running a successful baking business, Lori has always been drawn to the process of creating something delicious from scratch. Lori believes that baking should be fun, stress free, and filled with joy. Through her blog, she shares everything she has learned from perfecting cookie textures to making bakery quality cakes at home so that others can feel confident in the kitchen.

“Baking should be fun, rewarding, and a little messy. If you’re having fun, you’re doing it right!”– Lori Morrissey