Cream Cheese Brownies offer the best of both worlds: the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies combined with the tangy, creamy goodness of cream cheese. This delightful treat elevates the traditional brownie by adding a smooth, velvety layer that swirls beautifully with the chocolatey batter.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Indulgent Flavor: The pairing of rich chocolate brownie batter with creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese creates a flavor combination that’s impossible to resist.
- Perfect Texture: The brownies are dense yet soft, with the cream cheese swirl adding a silky smoothness that balances out the richness of the chocolate.
- Easy to Make: You don’t need any fancy equipment or techniques to whip up these brownies. A few simple ingredients, a mixing bowl, and a baking pan are all you need.
- Versatile: These brownies are perfect for any occasion—from a family dessert to a party treat. You can also make them ahead of time for a stress-free dessert.
Tips and Tricks
Don’t Overmix the Batter: When mixing the brownie batter, be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense brownies. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
Swirl Gently: When swirling the cream cheese mixture into the brownie batter, use a gentle hand to create beautiful, marbled swirls. Overmixing will blend the layers together, eliminating the distinct cream cheese effect.
Let Them Cool: While it’s tempting to dive in right away, cooling the brownies for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors set and allows the texture to firm up, making them easier to cut into neat squares.
Add Chocolate Chips: If you’re a chocolate lover, adding chocolate chips to the brownie batter will increase the richness and add extra texture.
Variations
- Nutty Cream Cheese Brownies: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a delicious crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the cheese.
- Marbled Brownie Bars: Instead of swirling the cream cheese into the batter, layer the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer and create a striped effect by gently dragging a knife through.
- Pumpkin Cream Cheese Brownies: For a fall twist, add a ½ cup of canned pumpkin to the cream cheese mixture, along with a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg, for a spiced variation that’s perfect for autumn.
- Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Brownies: Swirl peanut butter into the cream cheese layer for a salty-sweet treat. The peanut butter adds a creamy richness that complements the chocolate brownies.
How to Serve
Cream cheese brownies are delicious on their own, but they can also be served in various creative ways:
- With a Scoop of Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream is the perfect pairing for these fudgy brownies. The cold ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the warm, creamy brownies.
- Topped with Fresh Berries: Add a burst of freshness with a topping of raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. The tang of the fruit complements the richness of the cream cheese and chocolate.
- With a Drizzle of Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of caramel or hot fudge sauce on top takes these brownies to a whole new level of indulgence.
- A Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a simple yet elegant touch, dust the cooled brownies with powdered sugar before serving.
How to Store
To keep your cream cheese brownies fresh and delicious for as long as possible:
- Room Temperature: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will keep them moist and soft.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cold enhances the cream cheese layer, making them even more indulgent.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, these brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture and flavor may be slightly different. Full-fat cream cheese creates a creamier, richer texture.
2. How do I know when the brownies are done?
The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out completely clean, they may be overbaked.
3. Can I make these brownies in advance?
Absolutely! These brownies keep well for a few days and actually taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld together. Refrigerate or freeze for longer storage.
4. Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can use an alternative sweetener, such as coconut sugar or stevia. Just make sure to adjust the amount to taste, as some sweeteners are sweeter than regular sugar.
5. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, checking for doneness at around 40-45 minutes.
Cream Cheese Brownies
Cream Cheese Brownies offer the best of both worlds: the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies combined with the tangy, creamy goodness of cream cheese. This delightful treat elevates the traditional brownie by adding a smooth, velvety layer that swirls beautifully with the chocolatey batter.
Ingredients
For the brownies:
- 12 tbsp unsalted butter (cut into tablespoon-sized pieces)
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (light or dark, packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For the cheesecake swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 7x11-inch metal pan with baking spray.
- Make the brownie batter: In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and chocolate chips. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then heat for another 15 seconds and stir again. Repeat until fully melted and smooth. Stir in cocoa powder, then add the sugars and mix well. Add the eggs and egg yolk one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and then fold in the flour until fully combined.
- Reserve batter: Set aside ¼ cup of the brownie batter for the swirl. Spread the remaining batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Make the cheesecake swirl: In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until creamy. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Assemble the brownies: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter. Take the reserved ¼ cup brownie batter and drop spoonfuls over the cheesecake. Use a knife to swirl the brownie batter and cheesecake together to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes at 350°F, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few fudgy crumbs.
- Cool and serve: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
Final Thoughts
Cream cheese brownies are the ultimate indulgent treat, combining the best of two worlds into one unforgettable dessert. Whether you make them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these brownies are guaranteed to be a hit. With their rich flavor, creamy texture, and endless variations, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. Enjoy!
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