The holidays are a time for indulgence, and what better way to celebrate than with the dazzling allure of Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies? I can’t help but smile every time I catch a whiff of that rich chocolate aroma mingling with the sweetness of crushed Oreos—it’s like a warm embrace on a chilly day.
Picture this: a festive gathering filled with friends and family, laughter swirling in the air, and the centerpiece is a platter of these decadent brownies. Their vibrant red color and creamy Oreo swirls never fail to impress, making them the perfect treat to elevate any holiday spread.
Not only are they visually stunning, but they’re ridiculously easy to make, turning your kitchen into a holiday haven without any stress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just someone looking to escape the monotony of takeout, these brownies promise to bring joy to your taste buds and create lasting memories. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your holiday traditions!
Why You'll Love This Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies
- These brownies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for even the busiest holiday season.
- The rich flavor of red velvet combined with the irresistible crunch of Oreo creates a taste sensation that will leave everyone asking for more.
- With their stunning red and white swirls, these treats not only taste amazing but also make for a beautiful presentation that elevates any holiday table.
- Plus, they’re a delightful crowd-pleaser that will impress both your family and friends, ensuring your dessert table is the star of the show.
Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies Ingredients
Make your holiday baking a breeze!
For the Brownie Batter
- All-purpose flour – this forms the base for your fudgy brownies and provides structure.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – adds a rich, chocolatey flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens your brownies and helps achieve that beautiful, moist texture.
- Unsalted butter – melted for a smooth batter, giving your brownies their rich taste.
- Large eggs – bind the ingredients together and create that lovely, chewy texture.
- Red food coloring (gel) – use gel for vibrant color without altering the batter’s consistency.
- Vanilla extract – enhances the flavors, making your brownies even more irresistible.
For the Oreo Swirl
- Crushed Oreo cookies – add delightful crunch and a delicious creaminess to your brownies.
These Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies are not only simple to prepare but are sure to be the highlight of your festive gatherings!
How to Make Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by greasing a baking pan or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
-
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once it’s silky smooth, set it aside to cool slightly while you gather your other ingredients.
-
Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and sugar in a bowl until well blended. This dry mixture is essential for creating that rich, fudgy brownie base.
-
Combine the eggs one at a time into the melted butter, stirring well before adding in the vanilla extract and vibrant red food coloring. This step ensures a lovely, smooth batter.
-
Fold the dry ingredients gradually into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing! Gently incorporate the crushed Oreos, allowing them to create decadent swirls.
-
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Optional: Sprinkle some extra crushed Oreos on top before baking for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies Variations
Celebrate the festive spirit by customizing these brownies to fit your taste and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for delicious brownies that everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut or almond butter in place of unsalted butter, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips for added richness.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce and use a plant-based butter alternative for a vegan-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Mint Chocolate: Add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing twist that feels like a holiday treat.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful nutty flavor and extra texture in every bite.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile with a cozy warmth.
- Oreo Cream Cheese Swirl: Mix 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup powdered sugar and swirl it into the brownie batter for a creamy, delicious layer.
- Chocolate Ganache Topping: Drizzle a silky chocolate ganache over the cooled brownies for an elegant finish that takes your treats to the next level.
Explore these variations to make each batch uniquely yours, transforming the classic into something truly special!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies
Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and moist, perfect for snacking or sharing.
Fridge: For longer storage, place brownies in the fridge, where they’ll stay good for up to a week. Make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze these Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies for up to 3 months. Cut into squares, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer bag.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste!
What to Serve with Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies?
Imagine indulging in warm, gooey brownies alongside delightful pairings that enhance their festive charm and enrich your holiday experience.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla perfectly complements the rich chocolate flavors while balancing sweetness; the contrast creates pure bliss. Imagine a scoop melting over a warm brownie, bringing a symphony of taste.
-
Eggnog: This traditional holiday drink adds a spicy and creamy contrast that enhances the festive spirit of your dessert. The nutmeg and cinnamon in eggnog harmonize beautifully with the chocolatey notes of the brownies.
-
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: An indulgent twist on classic hot chocolate with a hint of peppermint creates a cozy pairing. Serve it warm to amplify the comforting essence of your holiday gathering!
-
Crushed Candies: Use crushed peppermint candies to sprinkle over brownies, adding a delightful crunch and holiday color. This adds both texture and festive flair that’s instantly eye-catching.
-
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the fudgy texture while adding lightness. You could even flavor it with a dash of vanilla or peppermint extract for an extra festive touch!
-
Coffee: A rich cup of brewed coffee or a creamy latte can cut through the sweetness of the brownies. The deep flavors of coffee elevate the chocolate, creating a sophisticated dessert experience.
-
Fruit Compote: A tangy raspberry or cherry compote adds brightness to the rich brownies, providing a flavor contrast that’s refreshing and vibrant. The tartness beautifully balances the sweetness of the dessert.
-
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate on top amps up the decadence. The shiny finish not only looks fabulous but also enriches the taste for true chocolate lovers.
-
Holiday Punch: Serve with a festive fruit punch, offering both refreshment and a touch of holiday cheer. The fruity notes of the punch contrast delightfully with the rich flavors of your brownies.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to impress your guests with minimal day-of effort. You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix all your wet and dry ingredients, fold in the crushed Oreos, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain the brownies’ vibrant color and rich flavor, cover the mixture tightly. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled batter into the prepared pan and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy delicious, freshly-baked brownies without feeling rushed, allowing you to savor the festive moments with family and friends.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best texture in your Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies, make sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off, as too much flour can lead to dry brownies.
- Always let the melted butter cool slightly before mixing in the eggs to prevent them from cooking, which can alter the texture of your batter.
- When folding in the dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep your brownies tender; overmixing can lead to a tougher result.
- Finally, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for that perfect fudgy finish.
Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cocoa powder for my brownies?
Absolutely! Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder—look for brands that are rich in chocolate flavor and have a deep color. Dutch-processed cocoa will give your brownies a smoother taste and a dark hue, while natural cocoa powder will provide a more intense chocolate flavor.
How should I store leftover brownies?
Very good question! Store your Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, move them to the fridge, where they can safely be kept for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to keep their moisture in.
Can I freeze Christmas Red Velvet Oreo Swirl Brownies? How?
Of course! To freeze your brownies, first cut them into squares. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air gets in. Then, place the wrapped brownies in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or pop them into the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that perfect fresh-baked taste.
What should I do if my brownies are too cakey instead of fudgy?
Great question! If your brownies turn out cakey, it might be that you added too much flour or overmixed the batter. Remember, when you fold in the dry ingredients, mix until just combined; any additional mixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a drier texture. Always measure flour with care!
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe contains allergens such as gluten (from flour) and dairy (from butter). If you’re considering a gluten-free version, you could substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Always check the specific ingredients of Oreo cookies, as they may contain allergens like soy or might not be suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use a different type of cookie instead of Oreos?
Very much! If you love experimenting, feel free to substitute Oreos with other cookies like chocolate chip, peanut butter, or even gluten-free cookies. Mix it up to find flavors that you and your family enjoy even more!
Equipment
- baking pan
- Medium saucepan
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter melted
- 2 large Eggs large
- 1 tbsp Red food coloring (gel)
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
Oreo Swirl
- 1 cup Crushed Oreo cookies
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat and let it cool slightly.
- Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and sugar in a bowl until well blended.
- Combine the eggs one at a time into the melted butter, adding vanilla extract and red food coloring.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, then gently mix in the crushed Oreos.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Optionally, sprinkle extra crushed Oreos on top before baking.
Leave a Comment