Beyond the Brownie: Creative Recipes Featuring Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Wonders
Jimmy John’s might be known for its speedy subs, but their new Red Velvet Brownie and Cookie are quickly stealing the show. These decadent treats are intensely flavored and perfectly textured, making them ideal for more than just a simple dessert. If you’re looking to elevate your baking game and create unique dishes, look no further. We’ve gathered some delicious and innovative recipes that incorporate the irresistible flavors of Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Brownie and Cookie, offering a delightful twist on classic desserts and treats.
Why Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Brownie and Cookie?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why these treats are so special. The Red Velvet Brownie boasts a rich, moist texture with a distinct red velvet flavor profile, balanced by a subtle tanginess and a hint of cocoa. The Red Velvet Cookie, on the other hand, offers a chewy, slightly crisp exterior with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center, delivering the same red velvet goodness in a delightful cookie form. Their intense flavor and ready-made convenience make them perfect ingredients for creative recipe experimentation.
Recipe 1: Red Velvet Brownie Trifle
This trifle is a showstopper, layering the rich flavors of the Red Velvet Brownie with creamy elements and fresh berries. It’s a dessert that’s both elegant and incredibly easy to make.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Brownies, crumbled
* 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1 pint fresh raspberries
* 1 pint fresh blueberries
* Optional: Chocolate shavings for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:** In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps.
2. **Whip the Cream:** In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. This will create a light and airy cream layer.
3. **Crumble the Brownies:** Crumble the Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Brownies into bite-sized pieces. You can use a fork or your hands for this step.
4. **Layer the Trifle:** In a large trifle bowl or individual serving glasses, begin layering the ingredients. Start with a layer of crumbled Red Velvet Brownie, followed by a layer of the cream cheese mixture, and then a layer of mixed raspberries and blueberries.
5. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of berries on top. Aim for an even distribution of ingredients in each layer to ensure every bite is balanced.
6. **Chill:** Cover the trifle with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the brownie to soften slightly.
7. **Garnish and Serve:** Before serving, garnish with chocolate shavings, if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy the decadent layers of red velvet, cream, and fresh berries.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a boozy twist, drizzle a tablespoon of raspberry liqueur or Chambord over the brownie layer.
* Add a layer of chocolate pudding for extra richness.
* Substitute the berries with other seasonal fruits like strawberries, blackberries, or cherries.
* Use a clear glass bowl to showcase the beautiful layers of the trifle.
Recipe 2: Red Velvet Brownie Milkshake
This milkshake is the ultimate indulgence, blending the rich flavor of the Red Velvet Brownie with creamy ice cream and a touch of chocolate. It’s perfect for a hot day or a decadent treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Brownie
* 2 cups vanilla ice cream
* 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
* 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
* Whipped cream, for topping
* Chocolate shavings, for garnish (optional)
* Cherry, for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Brownie:** Roughly chop the Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Brownie into smaller pieces. This will help it blend smoothly into the milkshake.
2. **Blend the Milkshake:** In a blender, combine the chopped brownie, vanilla ice cream, milk, and chocolate syrup. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the milkshake is too thick, add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
3. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the milkshake and adjust the ingredients as needed. If you want a richer chocolate flavor, add more chocolate syrup. If you want it sweeter, add a little sugar or simple syrup.
4. **Pour and Garnish:** Pour the milkshake into a tall glass. Top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, and a cherry, if desired.
5. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the milkshake immediately and enjoy the creamy, chocolatey, red velvet goodness.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla for an even richer chocolate flavor.
* Add a splash of coffee liqueur for a boozy kick.
* Drizzle the inside of the glass with chocolate syrup before pouring in the milkshake for a decorative touch.
* Crush some extra Red Velvet Brownie pieces and sprinkle them on top of the whipped cream.
Recipe 3: Red Velvet Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches
Take your ice cream sandwich game to the next level with these delicious Red Velvet Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches. The chewy cookies perfectly complement the cold, creamy ice cream.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Cookies
* 1 pint your favorite ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, or cream cheese flavored work well)
* Optional: Sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for rolling
**Instructions:**
1. **Soften the Ice Cream:** Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly. This will make it easier to spread.
2. **Prepare the Cookies:** Arrange the Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Cookies on a clean surface. Make sure they are all roughly the same size for even sandwiches.
3. **Assemble the Sandwiches:** Take one cookie and spread a generous layer of softened ice cream on the flat side. Top with another cookie, flat side down, to create a sandwich.
4. **Smooth the Edges:** Use a knife or spatula to smooth the edges of the ice cream so they are flush with the cookies. This will create a neat and tidy sandwich.
5. **Roll in Toppings (Optional):** If desired, roll the edges of the ice cream sandwiches in sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or chopped nuts. This adds extra flavor and texture.
6. **Freeze:** Wrap each ice cream sandwich individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Place them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
7. **Serve:** Remove the ice cream sandwiches from the freezer and let them sit for a minute or two before serving. Enjoy the perfect combination of chewy cookie and cold, creamy ice cream.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Experiment with different ice cream flavors to find your favorite combination. Cream cheese ice cream is especially delicious with red velvet.
* Dip the cookies in melted chocolate before assembling the sandwiches for an extra layer of decadence.
* Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes with the ice cream sandwiches.
* Make mini ice cream sandwiches using smaller cookies or by cutting the larger cookies in half.
Recipe 4: Red Velvet Brownie Parfaits
These parfaits are a simple yet elegant dessert that highlights the rich flavor of the Red Velvet Brownie. They are easy to assemble and perfect for individual servings.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Brownies, cubed
* 1 cup vanilla yogurt (or Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor)
* 1/2 cup whipped cream
* 1/4 cup fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
* Optional: Granola for added crunch
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Brownies:** Cut the Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Brownies into small cubes.
2. **Layer the Parfaits:** In individual serving glasses or parfait cups, begin layering the ingredients. Start with a layer of cubed Red Velvet Brownie, followed by a layer of vanilla yogurt, then a layer of whipped cream, and finally a layer of fresh berries.
3. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of berries or whipped cream on top.
4. **Add Granola (Optional):** Sprinkle a little granola on top for added crunch and texture.
5. **Chill:** Refrigerate the parfaits for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. **Serve:** Serve the parfaits chilled and enjoy the layers of rich brownie, creamy yogurt, and fresh berries.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use flavored yogurt, such as strawberry or raspberry, to complement the red velvet flavor.
* Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
* Substitute the whipped cream with cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor.
* Use different types of fruit, such as peaches, mangoes, or kiwi, depending on the season.
Recipe 5: Red Velvet Cookie Crumble Topping
Transform your favorite desserts with this easy Red Velvet Cookie Crumble Topping. It adds a delicious crunch and a burst of red velvet flavor to anything from ice cream to muffins.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Cookies
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
* 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Crumble the Cookies:** Crumble the Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Cookies into small pieces. You can use a food processor for a finer crumble or your hands for a more rustic texture.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled cookies, melted butter, granulated sugar, and all-purpose flour. Mix well until the mixture is crumbly.
4. **Bake (Optional):** For a crispier crumble, spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool completely.
5. **Use as Topping:** Sprinkle the Red Velvet Cookie Crumble Topping over ice cream, yogurt, muffins, pies, or any other dessert you desire.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble for extra warmth.
* Mix in some chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and flavor.
* Use the crumble as a topping for baked goods like muffins or coffee cake.
* Store the crumble in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Recipe 6: Red Velvet Brownie Stuffed French Toast
Take your French toast to a whole new level with this decadent Red Velvet Brownie Stuffed French Toast. The rich brownie filling adds a burst of flavor and moisture to the classic breakfast dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 slices of bread (challah or brioche work best)
* 1 Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Brownie, cut into 4 slices
* 2 eggs
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
* Butter, for cooking
* Powdered sugar, for dusting
* Maple syrup, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Brownie Slices:** Cut the Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Brownie into 4 equal slices.
2. **Make the Egg Mixture:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
3. **Assemble the French Toast:** Place a slice of brownie on top of two slices of bread. Top with the remaining two slices of bread, creating sandwiches.
4. **Dip in Egg Mixture:** Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Let the bread soak for a few seconds on each side to absorb the mixture.
5. **Cook the French Toast:** Melt some butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the French toast sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. **Serve:** Dust the French toast with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use cream cheese frosting as a filling instead of the brownie for a lighter version.
* Add a layer of fresh berries between the brownie and the bread for added flavor and texture.
* Cook the French toast in coconut oil for a unique flavor.
* Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a more decadent treat.
Recipe 7: Red Velvet Cookie Bark
This Red Velvet Cookie Bark is a festive and delicious treat that’s perfect for holidays, parties, or any occasion. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces white chocolate chips
* 2 Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Cookies, roughly chopped
* Optional toppings: Sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, crushed peppermint candy, chopped nuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt the White Chocolate:** Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.
2. **Spread the Chocolate:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the parchment paper and spread it evenly into a thin layer.
3. **Add the Cookie Pieces:** Sprinkle the chopped Red Velvet Cookies over the melted chocolate.
4. **Add Toppings (Optional):** Add any additional toppings you desire, such as sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, crushed peppermint candy, or chopped nuts.
5. **Chill:** Refrigerate the bark for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
6. **Break into Pieces:** Once the chocolate is firm, break the bark into pieces.
7. **Serve:** Serve the Red Velvet Cookie Bark and enjoy.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate for a different flavor.
* Add a swirl of red food coloring to the melted white chocolate for a more intense red color.
* Drizzle melted chocolate of a different color over the bark for a decorative touch.
* Package the bark in cellophane bags and tie with ribbon for a festive gift.
Final Thoughts
Jimmy John’s Red Velvet Brownie and Cookie are incredibly versatile ingredients that can be used to create a wide variety of delicious and unique desserts. These recipes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment and create your own culinary masterpieces. Enjoy the sweet, red velvet goodness!