Brownies with Pink Frosting

The first time I made these brownies was for my daughters birthday when she requested something chocolate but absolutely pink on top. I remember standing in the kitchen debating whether this combination would actually work or if I was about to create a dessert disaster.

My neighbor actually asked for the recipe after trying one at our block party. She could not believe the frosting was just four simple ingredients whipped together while the brownies cooled.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Using melted butter in the brownie batter creates that dense fudgy texture we all love
• Granulated sugar: This creates the crackly shiny top that signals a perfect brownie
• Large eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate better for a smoother batter
• Vanilla extract: Do not skip this in either the brownies or frosting
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Dutch process cocoa gives the deepest chocolate flavor
• All purpose flour: Just enough to hold everything together without making them cakey
• Salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor like nothing else
• Baking powder: Gives a slight lift while keeping them dense
• Softened butter for frosting: Must be truly soft for smooth creamy results
• Powdered sugar: Sift it first to avoid lumps in your frosting
• Milk: Whole milk makes the frosting richer but any milk works
• Pink food coloring: Start with two drops and add more for your desired shade

Instructions

Preheat your oven:

Set to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper leaving overhang on all sides for easy lifting later.

Whisk the wet ingredients:

In a large bowl whisk melted butter and sugar until combined then add eggs and vanilla whisking until completely smooth.

Add the dry ingredients:

Sift in cocoa powder flour salt and baking powder then fold gently with a spatula just until no flour streaks remain.

Bake to perfection:

Pour batter into your prepared pan smooth the top and bake 28 to 32 minutes until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.

Make the pink frosting:

While brownies cool completely beat softened butter with powdered sugar until fluffy then add milk vanilla and food coloring beating until smooth.

Frost and slice:

Spread frosting evenly over cooled brownies then lift them out using the parchment overhang and cut into 16 squares.

Save

These became my go to contribution for every potluck and school function after the year I brought three dozen and they disappeared before lunch was even served.

Making The Frosting Extra Smooth

I learned to whip the butter for two full minutes before adding any powdered sugar. This tiny step makes the frosting impossibly creamy and light.

Getting The Perfect Pink Shade

Natural food coloring gives a softer pastel look while gel coloring creates that vibrant carnival pink. Both work beautifully just use them sparingly.

Storage And Serving Tips

These actually taste better on day two when the flavors have melded together. Store them in an airtight container with parchment between layers.

• Let the frosted brownies set for 30 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices
• These freeze beautifully for up to three months if you need to make them ahead
• Chilled brownies are easier to cut neatly if serving for a special occasion

Save

There is something joyful about cutting into these and seeing that bright pink layer against the dark chocolate. They never fail to make people smile.

Recipe Q&A

→ What is the best way to ensure fudgy brownies?

Use melted butter and avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a dense, moist texture in the brownies.

→ How do I achieve the pink color in the frosting naturally?

Natural beet juice can be used as an alternative to artificial food coloring for a vibrant pink hue.

→ Can I add extra ingredients to the brownies batter?

Yes, incorporating chocolate chips or chopped nuts adds extra texture and flavor to the brownies.

→ What's the recommended baking pan size for these brownies?

Use an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan lined with parchment paper for even baking and easy removal.

→ How should I store the brownies after baking?

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them fresh.