Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Brownie Batter

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Melt the Butter:

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until fully melted. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Mix the Sugars and Butter:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth and combined.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:

Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Add the Red Food Coloring:

Mix in the red food coloring until the batter is a vibrant red. You can adjust the amount of food coloring based on your preference—gel food coloring tends to create a deeper red, while liquid food coloring results in a slightly softer hue.

Step 2: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

1. Sift the Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting ensures that there are no lumps and that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.

2. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough brownies.

3. Add the Vinegar:

Finally, add the white vinegar and stir until it’s fully incorporated. This gives the red velvet brownies their signature tangy flavor.

Step 3: Bake the Red Velvet Brownies

1. Pour the Batter into the Baking Dish:

Pour the red velvet brownie batter into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure smooth, level layers.

2. Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes, checking frequently to avoid overbaking.

3. Cool Completely:

Once the brownies are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before adding the cream cheese frosting. This step is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together on medium speed using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

2. Add the Powdered Sugar:

Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent the sugar from flying everywhere. Once all the powdered sugar is incorporated, increase the speed to medium and beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.

3. Add Vanilla and Salt:

Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat for another minute until everything is well combined and the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Step 5: Frost the Red Velvet Brownies

1. Frost the Cooled Brownies:

Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using a spatula. Be generous with the frosting—it’s what makes these red velvet brownies extra indulgent!

2. Optional: Add Garnishes:

If you like, sprinkle the frosted brownies with red velvet crumbs (from trimming the edges), sprinkles, or white chocolate shavings for a decorative touch.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Chill Before Slicing (Optional):

For clean, even slices, place the frosted brownies in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to allow the frosting to set. This will make slicing easier and give the brownies a firmer texture.

2. Slice into Squares:

Use a sharp knife to slice the brownies into squares or rectangles. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.

3. Serve and Enjoy!

Your Red Velvet Brownies are ready to serve! Pair them with a glass of cold milk, a cup of coffee, or your favorite dessert wine for a truly indulgent treat.