Festive 4th of July Brownies: A Red, White, and Blue Treat!

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. Lightly grease the parchment paper.
2. 2

   In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Whisk until smooth and glossy.
3. 3

   Add the eggs one at a time, whisking vigorously after each addition until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract. Continue whisking for about 1 minute to incorporate air.
4. 4

   In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
5. 5

   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. 6

   Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
7. 7

   Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This is crucial before frosting.
8. 8

   Once brownies are cool, prepare the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of milk. Beat until smooth, adding more milk one teaspoon at a time if needed, until desired spreadable consistency is reached.
9. 9

   Divide the frosting into three equal portions. Leave one portion white. Tint one portion with red food coloring and the other with blue food coloring, mixing until vibrant and even colors are achieved.
10. 10

    Lift the cooled brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper. Spread the white frosting evenly over the entire surface. Dollop spoonfuls of red and blue frosting randomly over the white layer. Using an offset spatula or knife, gently swirl the colors together for a marbled effect. Avoid overmixing.
11. 11

    Cut into squares and serve immediately, or store for later enjoyment.