If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich decadence of chocolate with a vibrant twist, you have to try this Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Imagine fudgy brownies infused with a beautiful green hue, enhanced by a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances sweetness and richness. This treat isn’t just eye-catching; it’s a delightful way to add color and excitement to your dessert table, whether for special occasions or a fun weekend bake. Trust me, once you make these brownies, they’ll quickly become a favorite that friends and family can’t stop asking for.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to bake these brownies is a joy because the ingredients are simple, yet each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect texture, flavor, and color. From the creamy butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips that give a luscious base, to the green food coloring that adds that show-stopping look, every element matters.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips, ¾ cup: Provides rich chocolate flavor and smooth texture when melted.
- Butter, ¾ cup: Adds moisture and a silky mouthfeel to the brownies.
- Sugar, 2 cups: Sweetens the batter and helps achieve that tender crumb.
- Large eggs, 4: Bind the ingredients and contribute to structure and softness.
- All-purpose flour, 1½ cups: Gives the brownies their supportive framework, holding everything together.
- Green liquid food coloring, 1 (1-oz) bottle: Infuses the brownies with a vibrant green shade that’s truly captivating.
- Baking powder, 1½ tsp: Helps the brownies rise just enough without losing their fudgy nature.
- Vanilla extract, 1 tsp: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
- Salt, â…› tsp: Balances the sweetness and deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Cream cheese, 8 oz, softened: Forms the creamy base for the luscious frosting.
- Butter, 3 Tbsp, softened: Adds smoothness and richness to the frosting.
- Powdered sugar, 1½ cups: Sweetens the frosting while keeping it silky and smooth.
- Salt, â…› tsp: A tiny pinch to balance the sweetness of the frosting.
- Vanilla extract, 1 tsp: Rounds out the frosting flavor with a hint of warmth.
How to Make Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Take a 9-inch square pan and line both the bottom and sides with aluminum foil, making sure to leave 2 to 3 inches of overhang on the sides — this overhang will be a helpful handle later for lifting the brownies out without messing up the edges. Lightly grease the foil to prevent sticking, and you’re ready for the batter.
Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter. Microwave them on high for 1½ to 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until smooth and melted. This combination is the luscious heart of your brownies, so take your time to get it silky without burning the chocolate.
Step 3: Mix in Sugar and Eggs
Whisk the sugar into your melted mixture until well combined. Then add the eggs one at a time, whisking gently after each addition just until everything is blended. This ensures a smooth batter without overmixing, helping your brownies stay tender and moist.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Food Coloring
Gently fold in the flour, green food coloring, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir just enough to combine everything — you want the batter to keep its slight density so the brownies turn out fudgy and rich, plus that intense green color will pop beautifully here.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
Pour your green batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 44 to 48 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Patience is key here because you want them fully baked but wonderfully moist inside. Allow the brownies to cool completely on a wire rack, which will take about 2 hours.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the brownies cool, whip up that dreamy frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together at medium speed using an electric mixer until you get a smooth, creamy blend. Gradually add the powdered sugar and salt, continuing to beat until everything is beautifully incorporated. Finish by stirring in the vanilla extract — the perfect complement to the tangy richness of the cream cheese.
Step 7: Frost and Slice
Once your brownies are completely cooled, lift them from the pan using the foil edges like handles and gently pull the foil away. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top, creating a luscious layer that invites you to dive right in. Cut into 16 squares and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these already stunning brownies, consider adding a few simple garnishes. A sprinkle of white chocolate shavings or chopped pistachios adds a lovely contrast in color and texture. Fresh raspberries or edible flowers can also provide an inviting pop that complements the green and creamy frosting beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to bring cooling creaminess that balances the dense, chocolatey base. A cup of strong coffee or a fresh mint tea pairs wonderfully to cut through the richness, making each bite a well-rounded experience.
Creative Ways to Present
You can turn these green velvet brownies into mini dessert bars by cutting them into smaller bites and placing on decorative paper cups for a party-ready treat. Alternatively, stack a few squares with a layer of frosting in between to make festive brownie sandwiches. For holiday occasions, sprinkle some edible gold dust to add a little magic and glamour.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, store your Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature if it’s just for a day or two. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator to maintain the freshness and prevent the cream cheese frosting from spoiling. Wrapped tightly, they’ll stay moist and delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies either plain or frosted. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To warm up a brownie slice, pop it in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds — just enough to bring out that soft fudginess without melting the frosting completely. Warming enhances the chocolate aroma and makes every bite even more comforting.
FAQs
Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?
Absolutely! Gel food coloring is actually more concentrated, so start with less and add gradually until you reach that gorgeous green shade. It’s a fantastic alternative that won’t add extra moisture to the batter.
What’s the difference between these and regular brownies?
Green Velvet Brownies have a unique twist with the green food coloring and a lighter cream cheese frosting, adding not only visual appeal but a wonderfully tangy flavor contrast you don’t get with traditional brownies. Plus, the texture strikes a lovely balance between fudgy and cakey.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking, you can enjoy the same fantastic taste. Just make sure your baking powder and food coloring are gluten-free as well for a safe option.
How long will the cream cheese frosting stay fresh?
The cream cheese frosting is best eaten within 3 to 4 days if stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly. It tends to dry out or lose its smoothness if kept longer, so enjoy your brownies fresh for the best flavor!
Can I add nuts or chocolate chunks into the batter?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or extra chocolate chunks folded into the batter add delightful texture and bursts of flavor. Just add about ½ cup to the batter before baking for crunchy surprises.
Final Thoughts
One bite of the Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe and you’ll see why this vibrant dessert is such a crowd-pleaser. It’s fun, festive, and effortlessly impressive whether for holidays, parties, or just a sweet weekend treat. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients and dive into this joyful baking adventure — your taste buds will thank you!
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Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a festive and delicious twist on classic brownies. Featuring a vibrant green hue achieved with liquid food coloring and a rich, creamy cream cheese frosting, these brownies are perfect for celebrations or any time you want a fun dessert with a moist chocolate base and tangy topping.
Ingredients
Brownies
- ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¾ cup butter
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 (1-oz) bottle green liquid food coloring
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- â…› tsp salt
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 3 Tbsp butter, softened
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- â…› tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom and sides of a 9-inch square pan with aluminum foil, allowing 2 to 3 inches of foil to hang over the sides for easy lifting. Lightly grease the foil to prevent sticking.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter. Microwave on HIGH for 1½ to 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until the mixture is melted and smooth.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Whisk the sugar into the melted chocolate mixture until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking each just until blended. Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, green food coloring, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt until evenly combined.
- Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 44 to 48 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack, about 2 hours.
- Make the Frosting: Using an electric mixer at medium speed, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and salt, beating until smooth and blended. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Finish and Serve: Lift the cooled brownies from the pan using the foil overhang. Remove the foil gently, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the brownies, then cut into 16 squares. Optionally garnish before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter for the frosting are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- The green liquid food coloring gives a vibrant velvety color; adjust the quantity if a deeper or lighter green is desired.
- Microwaving chocolate in intervals prevents burning; stir frequently as directed.
- Cooling the brownies completely before frosting helps the frosting to spread smoothly and prevents melting.
- Store any leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
