When a sweet craving strikes, there’s something undeniably comforting about the rich, velvety allure of Red Velvet Nutella Brownies. Picture this: the moment you unravel the baking paper, an irresistible aroma fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist a taste. These decadent squares are a delightful twist on the classic brownie, combining the lightness of red velvet with the fudgy depth of chocolate.
Inspired by unexpected pantry finds, I decided to marry my love for brownies with the creamy indulgence of Nutella and a delightful crunch from Oreos. The result? A dessert that looks as stunning as it tastes, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to lavish parties. Trust me, every bite will leave your guests asking for the recipe! Not only are they easy to whip up, but they also promise to be a family favorite that goes beyond the mundane offerings of fast food. So, let’s dive into this wonderfully simple yet indulgent recipe and make magic happen in your kitchen!
Why are Red Velvet Nutella Brownies so irresistible?
Decadent, these brownies are a beautiful blend of classic flavors that truly indulge your sweet tooth. Visual appeal is ensured with their stunning red and brown layers, making them perfect for any gathering. Quick to prepare, they save you time and effort while still feeling special. Crowd favorites, they never fail to impress friends and family, often stealing the show at dessert tables. For an effortless pairing, consider serving them warm with a scoop of ice cream. Treat yourself to this delightful fusion that transports you far beyond standard fast food!
Red Velvet Nutella Brownies Ingredients
For the Red Velvet Layer
- Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup) – Provides richness and moisture to the red velvet layer. Substitution: Can use salted butter, but reduce any added salt in the recipe.
- Red Velvet Cake Mix (1 box) – Gives the brownies their signature red color and cocoa flavor. Note: Any standard red velvet cake mix will suffice; aim for 15-16 ounces.
- Egg (1 large) – Binds the ingredients in the red velvet layer. No substitutions recommended.
For the Brownie Layer
- Brownie Mix (1 box) – Serves as the fudgy base that contrasts with the lightness of the red velvet layer. Recommendation: Ghirardelli chocolate brownie mix provides optimal flavor.
- Eggs (2) – Adds structure and richness to the brownie layer. No substitutions recommended.
- Vegetable Oil (1/2 cup) – Enhances the fudgy texture of the brownies. Substitution: Can use melted coconut oil for a different flavor.
- Water (3 tbsp) – Hydrates the brownie mixture. No substitutions needed.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Adds depth of flavor. Optional: Use pure vanilla extract for better flavor.
For the Creamy Layer
- Nutella (1.5 cups) – Provides creaminess and richness between layers. Substitution: Any other chocolate-hazelnut spread can work.
- Oreos (22 standard size) – Creates a crunchy layer providing texture contrast. Substitution: Other similar cookies can be used, but avoid Double Stuf for consistent layering.
How to Make Red Velvet Nutella Brownies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it well, or use parchment paper for easy removal later. This step ensures a perfect, non-stick bake.
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Combine the red velvet cake mix, melted unsalted butter, and 1 large egg in a mixing bowl. Stir until a thick, cohesive dough forms, showing a rich red color. This dough will be the base of your brownies!
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Press the thick red velvet mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan. Ensure it covers the bottom evenly, which sets the stage for layering that incredible fudgy brownie on top.
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Layer the 22 Oreos evenly over the red velvet mixture, pressing them in slightly to create a delightful crunch in every bite. This adds a fun texture contrast to the creamy layers on top.
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Warm the Nutella in the microwave for about 30 seconds, checking until it’s perfectly spreadable. Then, spread it generously over the Oreos, ensuring each cookie gets a warm, comforting embrace of heavenly Nutella!
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Mix the brownie mix with 2 eggs, vegetable oil, water, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a separate bowl. Stir until smooth; your brownie batter should be thick and luscious, ready to crown your creation!
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Pour the brownie batter gently over the Nutella layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, being careful not to disrupt the layers below—this masterpiece deserves all that texture!
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Bake for 40-50 minutes, keeping an eye on the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, a sign of that perfect fudgy consistency.
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Cool the brownies in the pan for at least 15 minutes. This cooling period helps everything set up nicely and makes for easier cutting into squares later.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Red Velvet Nutella Brownies Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own—there’s so much delicious potential!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and brownie mix to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste.
- Nut-Free: Replace Nutella with a creamy sun butter or tahini for the same luscious texture, perfect for nut allergy concerns.
- Richer Chocolate Flavor: Swap half the brownie mix with a dark chocolate brownie mix to elevate the chocolatey depths of flavor.
- Add a Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes in the brownie mix for a surprising twist of heat.
- Fruity Surprise: Layer fresh raspberries or strawberries between the Oreos and Nutella for a burst of fruity flavor that pairs beautifully.
- Choco-Mint: Mix in a few drops of mint extract into the brownie batter, and top with crushed peppermint candies for a refreshing festive treat.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for an extra layer of chewy texture and contrasting flavors.
- Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the brownie mix for a tropical flair that pairs perfectly with the rich Nutella and red velvet.
What to Serve with Decadent Red Velvet Nutella Brownies?
Pairing these luscious brownies with delightful accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to new heights!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess and coolness of vanilla ice cream perfectly balance the richness of the brownies, creating a classic dessert duo.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream adds a soft contrast to the dense brownie layers, enhancing each bite with sweetness.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness, making for a beautifully balanced plate.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the brownies intensifies their chocolatey goodness, enticing anyone with a sweet tooth!
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee, whether it’s a bold espresso or a smooth latte, complements the flavors of the brownies beautifully, making them even more indulgent.
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Nutty Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of nutty caramel sauce brings an added layer of flavor that harmonizes well with the chocolate-hazelnut notes in the Nutella.
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Mint Tea: For a refreshing contrast, a warm cup of mint tea cleanses the palate and perfectly offsets the sweetness.
Invite your friends and family over for a treat, and watch as they enjoy these decadent delights with your carefully chosen accompaniments!
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Nutella Brownies
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Don’t Overbake: Check your brownies starting at 40 minutes to maintain that fudgy texture; nobody wants dry brownies!
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Proper Greasing: Grease your pan thoroughly or use parchment paper for easy removal, ensuring no brownie bits are left behind.
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Cooling Time: Be patient and allow brownies to cool completely before cutting. This makes for cleaner, perfect squares and avoids a gooey mess.
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Nutella Spreading: Work quickly when spreading Nutella; if it cools too much, it becomes difficult to manage and might disrupt the layers.
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Layering Technique: Press the Oreos gently into the red velvet layer for the best texture; this ensures they don’t float up during baking.
Make Ahead Options
These Decadent Red Velvet Nutella Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the red velvet layer and the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. To keep the layers from sticking together, avoid layering before baking. Simply spread the red velvet mixture in the prepared pan, cover it, and when you’re ready to bake, layer the Oreos and Nutella before topping with the brownie batter. Bake as directed, and you’ll enjoy fresh, fudgy treats with less fuss—ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
Storage Tips for Red Velvet Nutella Brownies
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Room Temperature: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious fudgy texture.
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Fridge: Storing in the fridge can extend their freshness for up to a week, just make sure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
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Freezer: For longer storage, cut the brownies into squares and freeze for up to 3 months. Ensure they’re placed in a single layer and wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To enjoy the brownies warm, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back that gooey, indulgent goodness of the Red Velvet Nutella Brownies!
Red Velvet Nutella Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of red velvet cake mix should I use?
Aim for a standard red velvet cake mix between 15-16 ounces. I often use a mix that’s labeled as classic for the best results, but feel free to choose any brand you love!
How do I store Red Velvet Nutella Brownies?
Keep the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerating them can keep them fresh for up to a week. Just be sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out!
Can I freeze these brownies, and if so, how?
Absolutely! Cut the brownies into squares and freeze them for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. This way, they’ll be ready to enjoy whenever you need a sweet treat!
What should I do if my brownies turn out too cakey?
If your Red Velvet Nutella Brownies come out too cakey, it might be due to overbaking. Always check for doneness at the 40-minute mark; you want the toothpick to come out with some moist crumbs, not clean. Round them off with a scoop of ice cream to balance out the texture!
Are these brownies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, these brownies contain Nutella, which may not be safe for individuals with nut allergies. If you’re looking for a nut-free alternative, you can use a chocolate spread that doesn’t contain nuts. Always check the label to ensure it’s allergy-friendly!
How long do these brownies last in the fridge?
In the refrigerator, your Red Velvet Nutella Brownies will stay fresh for up to a week. To maintain their scrumptiousness, store them in an airtight container and enjoy them cold or slightly warmed in the microwave for a few seconds!
Irresistible Red Velvet Nutella Brownies to Indulge A Sweet Tooth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it well, or use parchment paper for easy removal later.
- Combine the red velvet cake mix, melted unsalted butter, and 1 large egg in a mixing bowl. Stir until a thick, cohesive dough forms.
- Press the thick red velvet mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan, ensuring it covers the bottom evenly.
- Layer the 22 Oreos evenly over the red velvet mixture, pressing them in slightly.
- Warm the Nutella in the microwave for about 30 seconds, then spread it generously over the Oreos.
- Mix the brownie mix with 2 eggs, vegetable oil, water, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a separate bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the brownie batter gently over the Nutella layer, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness.
- Cool the brownies in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares.