If you’re like me and often crave the perfect mix of chocolate and tangy creaminess, then these cream cheese brownies are your ultimate indulgence. The first time I made this cream cheese brownies recipe, they were everything I’d hoped for and more.
Picture fudgy, rich chocolate combined with luscious cream cheese swirls, melting in your mouth with each bite. Trust me, they didn’t last long in my house! And if you love sweets, you might want to try something similar like peanut butter and jelly cookies too for a fun twist on classic treats.
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Brownies
Here’s what you’ll need, along with why each item is key to creating these irresistible brownies:
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips – These add moisture and deep chocolate flavor. Chopped semisweet chocolate works here too.
- ½ cup unsalted butter – Butter ensures the brownies are rich and flavorful. Use room-temperature butter for smooth mixing.
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – This amplifies the chocolatey goodness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens both the brownie base and the cream cheese topping.
- ¼ cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel-like depth to the brownies.
- 3 large eggs – They bind and structure the brownies while adding richness. Use room-temperature eggs for the best results.
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the sweet notes in both the brownie and cream cheese layers.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – Gives the brownies a structure that is fudgy, not cakey.
- 8 ounces cream cheese – Be sure to use the brick-style, not the spreadable kind, for the perfect texture.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for topping) – Sweetens the tanginess of the cream cheese.
Note: This recipe serves 16 brownies when cut into a 4×4 grid.
Best Variations To Try
Want to shake it up a bit? Here are some exciting alternatives to try:
- Dairy-free: Use vegan cream cheese and plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
- Low-sugar: Substitute granulated and brown sugar with a sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit.
- Add-ins: Fold in chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a swirl of peanut butter for a flavor boost.
For pairing options, consider these pecan pie cookies that complement the chocolatey richness perfectly.
Cooking Time
Here’s how much time you’ll need for these brownies:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Equipment You Need
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 8×8-inch baking pan: To cook your brownies to perfection.
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: To melt the chocolate and butter.
- Hand mixer: Ensures the cream cheese topping is light and fluffy.
- Parchment paper: Makes transferring and slicing neat and easy.
- Mixing bowls: One for the brownie batter and one for the cream cheese mixture.
How to Make Cream Cheese Brownies
These cream cheese brownies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake swirls. With a fudgy texture and a touch of tanginess, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Here’s how to make them:
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. This makes removing the brownies a breeze.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
Melt the chocolate chips and butter together in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth. Once melted, whisk in the cocoa powder, allowing the mixture to cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter
Add the sugars to the cooled chocolate mixture, then whisk until fully combined. Stir in the eggs one at a time for a glossy consistency. Finally, fold in the vanilla, salt, and flour, mixing just until combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
Using a hand mixer, beat the cream cheese with sugar until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then continue beating until smooth.
Step 5: Layer and Swirl
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, reserving about ¼ cup of the batter. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top, then dollop the reserved brownie batter across it. Use a knife to swirl the layers together gently.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few fudgy crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
I’ve learned a few things from making these brownies multiple times. Here are some valuable tips for better results:
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Always use room-temperature ingredients for the smoothest batters.
- Don’t overmix the brownie batter after adding the flour; this keeps them fudgy.
- For clean slices, chill the brownies in the fridge and cut them with a sharp knife.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Brownies
The beauty of these brownies is how versatile and pretty they look! Serve them at parties, potlucks, or as an indulgent treat after dinner. To elevate your serving presentation:
- Consider sprinkling powdered sugar lightly over the top.
- Garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of melted chocolate for elegance.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick snapshot of the nutritional value per brownie:
- Calories: 288
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fat: 16 g
How to Store Cream Cheese Brownies
- Storing at Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: These brownies stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw in the fridge before serving.
Check out these dinner recipes collection to try something new for your next meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to love about these cream cheese brownies!
- Simple to Make: The steps are easy to follow, even for beginners.
- Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences, like adding nuts or jams.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fudgy chocolate and tangy cream cheese is heavenly.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Bake them for holidays, parties, or when you simply feel like indulging.
FAQs
Can I use a different size pan for this recipe?
Yes, but remember to adjust the cooking time. A 9×13 pan will result in thinner brownies, so decrease baking time slightly.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking mix for great results.
What’s the best way to know the brownies are fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center. You want it to come out with only a few fudgy crumbs, not wet batter.