Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert to impress your guests, these Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a must-try! With their vibrant green hue, rich chocolatey flavor, and creamy frosting, they’re perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, Christmas, or any occasion where you want to add a pop of color to your dessert table. These brownies are as delightful to eat as they are to look at, combining the fudgy texture of brownies with the smooth tanginess of cream cheese frosting.

What Are Green Velvet Brownies?

Green Velvet Brownies are a fun twist on the classic red velvet dessert, using green food coloring to create their striking appearance. These brownies are made with a combination of cocoa powder and all-purpose flour, giving them a slightly chocolatey base that’s rich and decadent. The cream cheese frosting adds a luscious, tangy finish that perfectly complements the brownies’ flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Perfect for special occasions: The bold green color is great for themed celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day or Christmas.
• Rich and indulgent: These brownies deliver a fudgy texture and creamy frosting for a decadent dessert.
• Customizable: You can adapt the recipe for different themes or dietary needs with a few simple swaps.

Ingredients

Brownies:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp green food coloring
• 1⅓ cups (170g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (43g) cocoa powder
• ½ tsp salt

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened
• 4 tbsp (56g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Brownies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and green food coloring to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.

Assembling the Brownies

1. Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
2. Slice the brownies into squares and serve. For a festive touch, garnish with sprinkles or edible decorations!

Serving Suggestions

These Green Velvet Brownies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them further by serving with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra creaminess.
• A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.
• A cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze, slice the brownies first and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan butter, use flax eggs, and replace the cream cheese frosting with a vegan-friendly version.
• Different Colors: Swap the green food coloring for another color to fit various occasions—red for Valentine’s Day or orange for Halloween.

FAQs

Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?
Yes, gel food coloring works just as well and provides a more vibrant color. Start with a small amount and adjust to your desired shade.

Can I make the brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the brownies a day in advance and frost them right before serving for the freshest taste.

What’s the best way to cut clean brownie squares?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut for neat edges.

These Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful and visually stunning treat that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. With their rich flavor, creamy frosting, and festive appearance, they’re the perfect way to add a touch of fun to your dessert spread. Try this recipe and share your experience with family and friends!

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