Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, mixing until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour into Pan: Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Bake the Brownies:
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Cool: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes before frosting.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
Mix Frosting Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Assemble and Serve:
Frost the Brownies: Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
Cut and Enjoy: Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Brownies—a rich and decadent treat perfect for any occasion!