Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. These luscious brownies are not just indulgent; they also cater to those looking for dairy-free options. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, these brownies are sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
Switching to a dairy-free diet doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture. These Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies provide a rich, velvety experience that will leave you wanting more. The combination of cocoa powder and red food coloring creates a stunning visual appeal, while the creamy frosting adds a luscious finish. Plus, this recipe is straightforward to follow, making it a perfect choice, whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner.
How to Make Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies
Making these scrumptious Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies is simple and fun. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions you’ll need to create these delicious treats!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or other dairy-free milk)
- 1/4 cup red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup dairy-free cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, almond milk, red food coloring, and vanilla.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed, then pour into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the brownies cool, prepare the frosting by beating dairy-free cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Once the brownies are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting on top and cut into squares to serve.
Pro Tips for Success with Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your brownies is directly influenced by the quality of your ingredients. Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and food coloring for the best results.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix only until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary significantly in temperature. Keep an eye on your brownies and perform the toothpick test a couple of minutes before the minimum baking time.
- Cool Before Frosting: Allowing the brownies to cool completely will ensure that the frosting doesn’t melt into the brownies, giving you beautiful layers.
- Store Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
Flavor Variations for Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies
- Peppermint Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the brownie batter or frosting for a refreshing twist.
- Chocolate Chips: Stir in dairy-free chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for some added crunch.
- Coconut Surprise: Top your frosted brownies with shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a unique, spicy flavor that compliments the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions for Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies
These delightful brownies can be served in various ways to suit your taste and occasion:
- Serve them warm with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Pair them with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity contrast.
- For a more festive presentation, sprinkle some edible glitter or colorful sprinkles on top of the frosting.
- Serve alongside a cup of dairy-free hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy snack.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies
If you find yourself with leftovers (which might be a challenge!), here’s how to store and freeze your brownies:
- Room Temperature Storage: Keep the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer firmer brownies, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: To freeze the brownies, cut them into squares, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|————–|————-|———–|———|———–|————|
| 200 | 2g | 30g | 8g | 2g | 150mg |
FAQs About Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies
Can I use other dairy-free milk alternatives besides almond milk?
Absolutely! You can substitute almond milk with oat milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or any other dairy-free milk you prefer. Each alternative will add a slightly different flavor, but all will work well in this recipe.
How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
To make these brownies gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum, which helps mimic the elasticity and texture of regular flour.
Is it possible to omit the red food coloring?
Yes, you can omit the red food coloring if you prefer a more classic chocolate brownie flavor. They will still taste delicious but won’t have the signature red color.
How long do these brownies last?
When stored properly at room temperature, these brownies will stay fresh for about 3 days. If refrigerated, they can last up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Can I add nuts to the brownie mix?
Yes! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance the texture and flavor of your brownies. Just fold them into the batter before baking.
Final Thoughts
Making Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting is an enjoyable experience that results in delicious, eye-catching treats. Whether you’re following a dairy-free diet, looking to impress your guests, or craving something sweet for yourself, this recipe will not disappoint. The balance of rich chocolate flavor, the vibrant red color, and the creamy frosting create a dessert that everyone will love. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Print
Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
A delightful twist on classic brownies, these Dairy-Free Red Velvet Brownies are rich and velvety, topped with a creamy dairy-free frosting.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or other dairy-free milk)
- 1/4 cup red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup dairy-free cream cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, almond milk, red food coloring, and vanilla.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed, then pour into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the brownies cool, prepare the frosting by beating dairy-free cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Once the brownies are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting on top and cut into squares to serve.
Notes
Use high-quality ingredients for the best results. Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
