Introduction to Red Velvet OREO Brownies
Hey there, fellow dessert lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get pretty hectic. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up something special can feel like a challenge. That’s where these Red Velvet OREO Brownies come in! They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful escape from the everyday hustle. Imagine the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet combined with the satisfying crunch of OREO cookies. It’s a quick solution for a busy day or a dish that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet OREO Brownies
These Red Velvet OREO Brownies are a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just 45 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a sweet treat after a long day. The combination of rich chocolatey goodness and the iconic crunch of OREO cookies creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!
Ingredients for Red Velvet OREO Brownies
Let’s gather our ingredients for these scrumptious Red Velvet OREO Brownies! Each component plays a vital role in creating that rich, decadent flavor we all crave. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture to the brownies. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! It helps create that delightful chewy texture.
- Large eggs: Eggs bind everything together and contribute to the brownies’ fudgy consistency. Adding them one at a time ensures a smooth batter.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making each bite even more delightful.
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of our brownies, providing structure and stability.
- Cocoa powder: For that rich chocolate flavor, cocoa powder is essential. It’s what makes these brownies so indulgent!
- Baking powder: A little leavening agent to help the brownies rise slightly, giving them a perfect texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch! It balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Red food coloring: This is what gives our brownies that stunning red hue, making them visually appealing.
- OREO cookie pieces: The star of the show! These add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the red velvet.
For those who want to elevate the flavor even more, consider adding chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey kick. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Red Velvet OREO Brownies
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Red Velvet OREO Brownies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of deliciousness in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can use butter or cooking spray. This will help your brownies come out easily once they’re baked.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, melt the unsalted butter. I usually do this in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Once melted, mix in the granulated sugar until it’s well combined. The mixture should be smooth and glossy, almost like a shiny chocolate river. This texture is key to achieving that fudgy brownie consistency!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, it’s time to add the eggs. Crack them in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is important because it helps create a uniform batter. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. The aroma will make your kitchen smell heavenly!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Whisking is essential here; it helps to aerate the dry ingredients and ensures they’re evenly distributed. This will prevent any clumps and give your brownies a nice, even texture.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, and we want them to be soft and fudgy.
Step 6: Add Color and OREO Pieces
Here comes the fun part! Stir in the red food coloring until the batter is a vibrant red. Then, fold in the OREO cookie pieces. The crunch of the cookies adds a delightful contrast to the soft brownie texture. Plus, who doesn’t love OREOs?
Step 7: Bake the Brownies
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready! Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time is essential for achieving that perfect brownie texture.
Tips for Success
- Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Don’t skip the greasing step; it ensures easy removal from the pan.
- For extra fudginess, underbake slightly; they’ll continue to cook as they cool.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.
- Experiment with different OREO flavors for a fun twist!
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for brownies; you can use a glass or metal pan.
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry ingredients; a fork works in a pinch.
- Spatula: Great for folding in OREO pieces and spreading the batter.
- Toothpick: Essential for checking doneness; a knife can also do the trick.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Minty Fresh: Use mint-flavored OREO cookies for a refreshing twist on the classic recipe.
- Cheesecake Swirl: Add a cream cheese swirl on top before baking for a rich, creamy layer.
- Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use dairy-free butter for a vegan-friendly treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Red Velvet OREO Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with a drizzle of chocolate or cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent touch.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness.
- For a festive presentation, dust with powdered sugar or top with whipped cream.
FAQs about Red Velvet OREO Brownies
Can I use different types of OREO cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of OREO cookies. Mint, peanut butter, or even birthday cake OREOs can add a fun twist to your Red Velvet OREO Brownies.
How do I store leftover brownies?
Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap them well!
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes! These brownies are perfect for making ahead. Bake them a day or two in advance, and they’ll still taste delicious. Just remember to let them cool completely before storing.
What can I serve with these brownies?
These Red Velvet OREO Brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce can also elevate the dessert experience!
Are these brownies suitable for special diets?
With a few simple substitutions, you can make these brownies suitable for various diets. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option or replace eggs with flaxseed meal for a vegan treat.
Final Thoughts
Making these Red Velvet OREO Brownies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. The vibrant red color and the delightful crunch of OREO cookies bring joy to every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long day, these brownies are sure to impress. They’re easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy moms and professionals. So, gather your loved ones, share a plate, and enjoy the smiles that come with each delicious square. Trust me, you’ll be making these again and again!
Print
Red Velvet OREO BROWNIES: A Decadent Delight Awaits!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of Red Velvet OREO Brownies, a delightful treat that combines the classic taste of red velvet with the crunch of OREO cookies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 cup OREO cookie pieces
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix in the sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the red food coloring and OREO cookie pieces until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- These brownies can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg