Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 tablespoon green food coloring; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon milk (as needed)

Highlighted under: Sweet Cravings Bakery

I absolutely love these Green Velvet Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting! The vibrant green color is surprisingly delightful, and everyone who tries them can't resist the unique twist on a classic treat. The rich and moist brownie base contrasts perfectly with the creamy, tangy frosting. I find that the addition of buttermilk gives these brownies an extra layer of softness and depth, making them perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re super easy to make, so I often whip them up for gatherings or just a sweet pick-me-up at home.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-18T14:26:18.840Z

When I first decided to make Green Velvet Brownies, I was inspired by the classic red velvet but wanted to give it my own twist. Using green food coloring not only made them visually striking but also fun to serve!

One tip I learned while experimenting is to use buttermilk, as it keeps the brownies incredibly moist. The addition of cream cheese in the frosting balances the sweetness, and every bite is a creamy dream. These brownies become an instant hit, and I can’t wait for you to try them!

Why You Will Love These Brownies
Unique green color that stands out at any gathering
Rich chocolate flavor complemented by tangy cream cheese frosting
Soft and moist texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for birthdays or seasonal celebrations

The Role of Buttermilk

Buttermilk is a key ingredient in these Green Velvet Brownies, adding a depth of flavor and moisture that standard milk could never achieve. It reacts with the baking soda to create a lighter texture, resulting in brownies that are soft and melt-in-your-mouth delightful. If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by combining 1/2 cup of milk with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before adding it to your batter.

The acidity in buttermilk not only enhances flavor but also helps to tenderize the brownie structure, preventing them from becoming too dense. This is especially beneficial when using cocoa powder, which can create a heavier texture if not balanced with the right moisture. The result is a rich, indulgent brownie that retains its softness even after baking.

Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting

When making the cream cheese frosting, ensure that both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for the smoothest consistency. Cold ingredients can result in a lumpy frosting that’s difficult to spread. I usually take them out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before I start mixing to let them warm up appropriately.

If your frosting seems too thick after incorporating the powdered sugar, it’s perfectly fine to add milk to loosen it up. Start with one tablespoon and mix thoroughly, then assess if you need more. This will help you achieve a silky-smooth frosting that glazes beautifully over the brownies, enhancing both the aesthetic and flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once you have frosted your brownies, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, which helps keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. Just make sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the most enjoyable texture.

These brownies are also versatile when it comes to serving ideas. Serve them plain for a simple treat, or dress them up with additional toppings like crushed nuts or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They are especially festive when served at gatherings, and you could even cut them into fun shapes if you’re considering a themed event.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon green food coloring

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk (as needed)

Instructions

Prepare the Brownie Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and green food coloring until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Brownies

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely in the pan.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the brownies are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Frost the Brownies

Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice into squares and serve!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle crushed nuts or green sprinkles on top of the frosting before serving.

Variations You Can Try

If you're feeling adventurous, consider incorporating a swirl of raspberry or cherry preserves into the brownie batter before baking. This adds a delightful tartness that pairs perfectly with the chocolate flavor and cream cheese frosting. Simply drop spoonfuls of the preserves into the batter and gently swirl them with a knife or toothpick.

For a fun twist, you could add crushed peppermint candies or sprinkles on top of the cream cheese frosting for a pop of color and flavor. This seasonal variation is sure to impress your guests, especially around the holidays.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies come out too dry, it might be due to overmixing the batter or baking them for too long. To avoid this, mix the batter just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined, as overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to less moist brownies. Also, keep a close eye on your oven, as baking times can vary slightly depending on the model.

Another common issue could be uneven baking due to an improperly greased baking dish. Make sure to grease all corners thoroughly or line the pan with parchment paper, allowing some excess paper to hang over the edges. This will facilitate easy removal and avoid any sticking.

Scaling Up or Down

This brownie recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on the size of your gathering. To double the recipe, simply double all ingredients and bake in a larger pan, such as a 9x13 inch dish. Keep in mind that larger batches may require slightly longer baking times, so check for doneness after 30 minutes.

If you want to make a smaller batch, feel free to halve the recipe. You can use a smaller baking dish, like a 7x7 inch, and keep an eye on the baking time, as it may reduce to around 20 minutes. This flexibility allows you to make just the right amount for any occasion!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different colors instead of green?

Absolutely! You can use any food color you prefer to match your theme.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies without frosting for up to 3 months.

→ What can I replace buttermilk with?

You can substitute buttermilk with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.