Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese

There’s something truly magical about velvet desserts—their rich texture, vibrant colors, and indulgent flavors make them irresistible. These Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting bring a festive twist to traditional brownies, perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you want a pop of color on your dessert table. I first made these for a holiday party, and they quickly became a crowd favorite. The fudgy chocolate base combined with the luscious cream cheese frosting creates an unforgettable treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and Fun – The bright green color makes these brownies perfect for themed celebrations.
• Decadent Flavor – A rich, fudgy chocolate brownie paired with tangy cream cheese frosting.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Crowd-Pleaser – These brownies always stand out at gatherings and bake sales.
• Customizable – Add chocolate chips, sprinkles, or crushed cookies for extra flair.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Brownies:

• 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup butter
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 (1-oz) bottle green liquid food coloring
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Brownies:

1. Preheat and Prepare – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Melt the Chocolate – In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Let cool slightly.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
4. Add the Color – Pour in the green food coloring and mix well until the batter turns an even shade of green.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
6. Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool completely before frosting.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

7. Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter – In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
8. Add the Sugar – Gradually mix in the powdered sugar and salt until creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
9. Frost the Brownies – Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
10. Slice and Serve – Cut into squares and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving Suggestions – Garnish with green sprinkles, crushed chocolate cookies, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate.
• Storage – Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing – Freeze individual squares in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating – Serve chilled or let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating for a softer texture.

Helpful Notes

• Cleaner Slices – Chill the brownies in the fridge for an hour before cutting to achieve neat, professional-looking squares.
• Alternative Frosting – If you prefer a lighter option, swap the cream cheese frosting for a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
• Make it Gluten-Free – Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
• Extra Chocolatey – Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the batter before baking for added richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?
   • Yes! Gel food coloring is more concentrated, so use about 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to your desired color.
2. Why are my brownies dry?
   • Overbaking can cause dryness. Check at 30 minutes by inserting a toothpick—it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
   • Absolutely! Bake the brownies and store them unfrosted for up to 3 days. Frost before serving for the best texture.
4. What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
   • You can use mascarpone cheese or a thick Greek yogurt for a slightly different flavor.
5. How do I make these brownies even fudgier?
   • Reduce the baking time by a few minutes and use a higher-fat butter for extra moisture.

Final Thoughts

Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a show-stopping dessert that brings both flavor and fun to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just because, these brownies are sure to be a hit. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts and any fun variations in the comments!