Chef Mitchell preparing Red Velvet Chocolate Squares
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the idea of combining red velvet and chocolate when experimenting with flavors for a family gathering. After several trials, I perfected this recipe, balancing the rich cocoa flavor with the vibrant red color that makes these squares unique. They quickly became a favorite, and I love sharing them with friends and family."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, I've developed a passion for creating innovative dessert recipes. My training at culinary school equipped me with the skills to experiment with flavors and textures, resulting in delightful desserts like these Red Velvet Chocolate Squares.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Red Velvet Chocolate Squares served on a plate

Why This Red Velvet Chocolate Squares Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its perfect combination of flavors and textures. The rich chocolate base pairs beautifully with the vibrant red color, creating a visually stunning dessert that tastes as good as it looks. The creamy, tangy frosting complements the sweetness of the squares, inviting you to indulge.

The technique of mixing wet and dry ingredients separately ensures a light and fluffy texture, while folding in chocolate chips adds delightful bursts of flavor. Baking until just set results in a moist square that melts in your mouth.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, let the squares cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful presentation. Additionally, using high-quality cocoa powder can enhance the chocolate flavor significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can make these squares a day in advance. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Frost them right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

If you're looking for a substitute for butter, you can use coconut oil or applesauce for a healthier option. Both alternatives will yield a slightly different texture but will keep the squares moist.

To check if the squares are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they're ready. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry squares.

Yes, these squares freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

These squares pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries also add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

In the fridge, Red Velvet Chocolate Squares can last for about a week when stored in an airtight container. Just make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Absolutely! You can prepare the squares a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This can enhance the flavors as they sit overnight, just be sure to frost them just before serving.

To reheat, place the squares in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will warm them up nicely without drying them out. Serve with fresh frosting or ice cream for a delightful treat.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your squares turn out dry, it may be due to overbaking or not enough moisture.

Solution: Ensure you bake just until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Adding a little more buttermilk can also help maintain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the squares lack a crispy top, they may need more baking time.

Solution: Try baking for an extra few minutes, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked squares can be hard and dry.

Prevention: To prevent this, set a timer and check for doneness a few minutes early; every oven is different.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the center is undercooked, the batter may not have set properly.

Recovery: Return to the oven for a few more minutes and check again. Cover with foil if the edges are browning too much.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the temperature is too high or the baking time is too long.

Prevention: Consider lowering the oven temperature slightly and checking for doneness earlier in the baking process.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the squares are too sweet, consider reducing the sugar in the frosting next time.

Too Salty: To balance saltiness, add a touch more sugar to the batter.

Bland: If the squares taste bland, enhance the flavor with a pinch of espresso powder or extra vanilla extract.

Fresh ingredients for Red Velvet Chocolate Squares

Essential Ingredients for Red Velvet Chocolate Squares

The key ingredients in this recipe include flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and red food coloring, which contribute to the unique flavor and appearance. High-quality cocoa powder enhances the chocolate flavor, while buttermilk adds moisture and tang.

Fresh ingredients yield the best results. Opt for organic eggs and real butter for richer flavors, and ensure your baking powder is fresh for proper leavening.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Cocoa Powder: Using high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder is crucial for achieving a rich chocolate flavor. Brands like Dutch-processed cocoa can elevate the taste.
  • Red Food Coloring: Choose a gel-based food coloring for a more vibrant color without altering the batter's consistency. Liquid coloring can dilute your mixture.
  • Buttermilk: Homemade buttermilk can be made by mixing milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. This acidity activates the baking soda, resulting in a lighter texture.
Cooking process for Red Velvet Chocolate Squares

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

This recipe involves straightforward steps, including mixing dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them. This technique helps maintain a light texture in the final product.

Pay attention to baking times; testing for doneness with a toothpick ensures you achieve that perfect baked square. Each step is designed to maximize flavor and texture.

Key Technique for Perfect Red Velvet Chocolate Squares

The most important technique for this recipe is the careful mixing of wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense squares, so mix until just combined for optimal results.

Red Velvet Chocolate Squares

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
    Sifted
  • 1/4 cup milk
    Whole milk recommended
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    For flavor

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    Sifted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
    White sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    High quality
  • 1/2 cup butter
    Softened
  • 2 large eggs
    Room temperature
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
    Room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring
    Liquid or gel
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    For leavening
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    To balance flavor
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
    Semi-sweet

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a square baking pan.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients

    In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

  3. Cream Butter and Sugar

    In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

  4. Add Wet Ingredients

    Add the eggs, buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix well.

  5. Combine Mixtures

    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

  6. Bake

    Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

  7. Prepare the Frosting

    In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

  8. Frost and Serve

    Once the squares are cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top, cut into squares, and serve.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store the Red Velvet Chocolate Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, ensuring they are well wrapped.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or fresh berries for a wonderful combination of flavors and textures.

Recipe Variations

For a twist, consider adding chopped nuts or swapping chocolate chips for white chocolate. You can also make these squares gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.