If you are looking to elevate your dessert game with something irresistibly rich, fudgy, and creamy, look no further than this Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe. It’s a heavenly combination of dense chocolate brownie layered with a luscious cream cheese swirl that adds a delightful tang and velvety texture. Perfectly balanced between sweet and slightly tart, these brownies offer a moist, decadent bite that feels like a warm hug in dessert form. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to treats that friends and family will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but incredibly vital for creating the perfect balance of fudgy brownies with a creamy, smooth cream cheese topping. Each item plays a unique role, from the rich chocolate depth to the tangy cream cheese contrast, making every bite memorable.
- Butter (10 tablespoons): Provides richness and moisture, making the brownies fudgy and tender.
- Semisweet chocolate chips (½ cup): Adds intense, melty chocolate flavor that complements the cocoa powder.
- Cocoa powder (½ cup plus 1 ½ tablespoons): Gives the brownies their deep chocolate taste and rich color.
- Brown sugar (¾ cup): Adds a subtle caramel undertone and aids in moisture retention.
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens and helps to create that classic chewy brownie texture.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate’s flavor.
- Large eggs (3 total): Bind the ingredients and provide structure while keeping the brownies soft.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances flavor depth with a sweet, fragrant note.
- Flour (â…” cup): Gives just enough structure for the brownies without making them cakey.
- Water (1 ½ tablespoons): Adds moisture and helps dissolve the cocoa powder for smooth batter.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces): The star ingredient in the swirl, adding an irresistible tangy creaminess.
- Additional sugar for topping (¼ cup): Sweetens the cream cheese layer perfectly.
How to Make Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×9 inch baking dish or lining it with parchment paper. Getting this ready early will ensure your brownies bake evenly and come out effortlessly.
Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and semisweet chocolate chips together, stirring every 30 seconds to create a smooth, glossy mixture. This melty chocolate base is crucial for that fudgy texture and deep cocoa flavor.
Step 3: Mix in Cocoa and Sugars
To the melted mixture, add the cocoa powder, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until combined well, ensuring no lumps remain—this will build the rich, sweet, and chocolatey foundation of your brownies.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Flour
Beat in two large eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract. Follow with the flour and water and gently fold everything together until just combined; over-mixing can make the brownies tough, so keep it light and easy.
Step 5: Spread Base Brownie Batter
Pour and spread about three-quarters of the brownie batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. This first layer acts as the base for the luscious cream cheese swirl that’s coming next.
Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with ¼ cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Add one egg and the remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating until everything is combined flawlessly. This creamy layer will bring a tangy, velvety contrast to the dense brownie.
Step 7: Layer and Swirl
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the dish. Then dollop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter on top of the cream cheese layer. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the two together, creating a marbled effect that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly gooey. This ensures that fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth consistency that makes this Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe truly special.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Try sprinkling a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of melted chocolate over the top once cooled. You can also add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch that pairs beautifully with the fudgy and creamy layers.
Side Dishes
Serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert experience. Fresh berries or a raspberry sauce also provide a bright, fresh flavor contrast to the rich chocolate and cream cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut them into small squares for a dessert platter or larger slices for an indulgent treat. For a special occasion, stack brownies with layers of fresh cream and fruit to create a decadent brownie trifle. The marbled swirls add a stunning visual appeal to any presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cream Cheese Brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days; for longer keeping, refrigerate them where they will stay fresh for about a week without drying out.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to three months, making them perfect for prepping in advance.
Reheating
For a warm, freshly-baked feel, microwave brownies for about 15 to 20 seconds or reheat them gently in a low oven. This brings out the gooey texture and enhances the luscious cream cheese swirl delightfully.
FAQs
Can I use regular chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate chips?
You absolutely can! Using regular baking chocolate may change the sweetness level slightly, so if it’s unsweetened, consider adding a bit more sugar to balance the flavors. Semisweet chips work great because they melt smoothly and keep the right sweetness.
Is it necessary to swirl the cream cheese and brownie batter?
The swirling creates the iconic marbled effect and combines the flavors beautifully, but if you prefer a layered look, you can simply spread the cream cheese mixture evenly and top with the remaining batter without swirling.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
Cream cheese delivers a unique tang and creaminess that’s crucial here, but for a dairy-free option, try a vegan cream cheese alternative. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might vary slightly.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
The edges should be set and firm, while the center remains a little soft and gooey. Insert a toothpick near the middle; a few moist crumbs are ideal—if it’s wet batter, they need a bit more time.
Can these brownies be made gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend, making sure it’s a 1-to-1 replacement. The texture might be a touch different but will still be delicious!
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe is one of those desserts that never fails to impress, whether you’re sharing with loved ones or savoring a quiet moment of sweetness by yourself. With its perfect balance of fudgy chocolate and creamy tang, it’s truly a treat worth baking again and again. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and enjoy the warm, comforting joy that comes from homemade brownies with a cream cheese twist!
Print
Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cream Cheese Brownies offer a rich, fudgy chocolate base swirled with a luscious, creamy cheese layer, creating a decadent dessert perfect for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 10 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup plus 1 ½ tablespoons cocoa powder
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- â…” cup flour
- 1 ½ tablespoons water
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a baking dish (typically 8×8 inch) for easy removal of the brownies.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or stovetop double boiler, melt the butter and semisweet chocolate chips together until smooth. Stir in the cocoa powder, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Make Brownie Batter: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Stir in the flour and water until the batter is smooth and well mixed.
- Spread Batter: Pour about three-quarters of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract and continue beating until combined and creamy.
- Layer Cream Cheese: Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan.
- Swirl Batter: Drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter over the cream cheese layer, then use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the batter to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the brownies are set around the edges but slightly gooey in the center. Avoid overbaking for the best texture.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for easier mixing.
- To test doneness, insert a toothpick near the center; a few moist crumbs are ideal.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
