Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Festive Appearance: The striking green color makes these brownies a standout addition to any celebration.
  • Delicious Flavor: A harmonious blend of rich chocolate and tangy cream cheese frosting creates an irresistible taste.
  • Easy to Prepare: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
  • Versatile Occasion Treat: Ideal for holidays, parties, or whenever you’re craving a unique dessert.

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

  • ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ¾ cup butter
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 (1-ounce) bottle green liquid food coloring
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 3 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1½ cups powdered sugar
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, extending the foil over the edges for easy removal. Lightly grease the foil.
  2. 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 melted and smooth.
  3. Mix in Sugar and Eggs: Let the chocolate mixture cool slightly. Whisk in the sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking just until blended after each addition.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Coloring: Gently stir in the all-purpose flour, green food coloring, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt until the batter is evenly mixed.
  5. Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 44 to 48 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, approximately 2 hours.
  6. Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and salt, beating until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  7. Frost and Serve: Lift the cooled brownies from the pan using the foil overhang. Gently remove the foil and place the brownies on a serving platter. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into 16 squares and serve.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe yields 16 brownies.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 44 to 48 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes (including cooling time)

Variations

  • Alternative Colors: Substitute the green food coloring with red for a festive Christmas treat or omit the coloring for classic brownies.
  • Flavor Enhancements: Add a teaspoon of mint or almond extract to the batter for a unique twist.
  • Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the batter for added texture.
  • Decorative Toppings: Sprinkle festive colored sugars or edible glitter on top of the frosting to match various holiday themes.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Individually wrap unfrosted brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
  • Serving: For best flavor, allow refrigerated brownies to come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Yes, white chocolate can be used, but it will result in a sweeter brownie with a different flavor profile.

Is gel food coloring acceptable in place of liquid food coloring?

Absolutely, gel food coloring is more concentrated, so use less to achieve the desired color.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose baking mix.

How can I achieve a deeper green color?

Adding a small amount of blue food coloring can enhance the green hue.

Is it possible to use a different frosting?

Certainly, a buttercream or ganache would also pair well with these brownies.

Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes, folding in ½ cup of chocolate chips will add extra richness.

How do I prevent the frosting from being too runny?

Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened but not melted, and gradually add powdered sugar to achieve the right consistency.

Can I bake these brownies in a different pan size?

Yes, but adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger pan will result in thinner brownies and a shorter bake time.

What’s the best way to cut the brownies cleanly?

Chill the brownies in the refrigerator before slicing and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts.

Can I add a crunchy topping?

Yes, crushed Oreos, graham crackers, or even sprinkles can be added on top of the frosting for extra texture.

Conclusion

Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a fun and festive treat that’s sure to impress. Their rich, chocolatey flavor, combined with a smooth cream cheese frosting, makes them a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, party, or just because, these vibrant brownies are a must-try. Enjoy their irresistible taste and eye-catching color with every bite!


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Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

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  • Author: Amy
  • Prep Time: 10 minute
  • Cook Time: 44-48 minutes
  • Total Time: ~2 hours 58 minutes (including cooling)
  • Yield: 16 brownies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a festive twist on classic brownies, featuring a rich chocolate flavor, a vibrant green hue, and a luscious cream cheese topping. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, Christmas, or any occasion that calls for a fun and delicious dessert


Ingredients

For the Brownies:

  • ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ¾ cup butter
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 (1-ounce) bottle green liquid food coloring
  • 1½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 3 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1½ cups powdered sugar
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with foil and lightly grease it.
  • Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and butter, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
  • Mix Wet Ingredients: Let the mixture cool slightly, then whisk in sugar. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until combined.
  • Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in flour, food coloring, baking powder, vanilla, and salt until well combined.
  • Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 44-48 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely for about 2 hours.
  • Make Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and salt, then mix in vanilla.
  • Frost and Serve: Lift brownies from the pan, remove foil, and spread frosting evenly. Cut into squares and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use gel food coloring for a more intense green color.
  • Add mint extract for a refreshing twist.
  • For a nutty crunch, mix in chopped pecans or walnuts.
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