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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- 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.
