Okay, you guys, let’s talk brownies. Not just any brownies, though. We’re talking about the kind that makes your eyes roll back in your head with pure, unadulterated chocolate bliss. I’m talking about my Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably tried every brownie variation under the sun – fudgy, cakey, chewy… but these? These are in a league of their own. Imagine your favorite intensely chocolate brownie, but with a tangy, creamy swirl dancing through every single bite. These are definitely richer than your average box-mix brownie (though I have been known to doctor those up in a pinch!), but the little bit of extra effort is *so* worth it. I promise. They’re seriously addictive, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they become your new go-to brownie recipe. This one’s a classic in our family, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
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What is a Cream Cheese Brownie recipe?
Cream Cheese Brownies are essentially fudgy chocolate brownies taken to the next level with a ribbon of sweetened cream cheese swirled throughout. Think of it as a marriage between a classic New York cheesecake and a decadent chocolate brownie. The cream cheese layer adds a delightful tanginess that cuts through the richness of the chocolate, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. It’s not just about taste, though; the cream cheese also adds a beautiful marbled effect to the brownies, making them as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. And, let me tell you, these are incredibly easy to make! Don’t be intimidated by the swirl – it’s much simpler than it looks. You’re basically just dolloping the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter and swirling it with a knife or skewer. Easy peasy!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons to adore this Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. The combination of rich, dark chocolate with the creamy, tangy cream cheese is just divine. It’s a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. What I love most about this recipe, though, is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, even if you’re a beginner baker, you can totally nail this recipe. The ingredients are simple and readily available, and the steps are straightforward. Plus, it’s way cheaper to make these at home than to buy some fancy bakery version! My favorite part? I can usually whip up a batch with ingredients I already have on hand. And don’t even get me started on the versatility! You can customize these brownies in so many ways, adding different extracts, nuts, or chocolate chips to suit your taste. I love adding a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a little extra crunch. I’ve even experimented with adding a touch of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor – trust me, it’s a game-changer! These are perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or just a cozy night in with a good book. Basically, any excuse to make them is a good one in my book!
How do I make Cream Cheese Brownies?
Quick Overview
Making these Cream Cheese Brownies is easier than you think! You’ll start by making a basic brownie batter, then whip up a quick cream cheese mixture. Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter, swirl it with a knife or skewer, and bake! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s super forgiving. Don’t worry about making the swirls perfect – the more imperfect, the better! And the best part is, you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. Ready to get baking?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted. I always use good quality butter here – it really makes a difference in the flavor.
* 2 cups granulated sugar. If you prefer a less sweet brownie, you can reduce this slightly, but I find this amount to be very good.
* 4 large eggs. Make sure they’re at room temperature – they’ll incorporate more easily into the batter.
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Again, use a good quality extract for the best flavor.
* ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder. I prefer Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a richer, darker chocolate flavor, but regular coco. Is there any powder that works?
* 12 teaspoon baking powder. This helps to give the brownies a little lift.
* ¼ teaspoon salt. Don’t skip the salt – it enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
* 1 cup all-purpose flour. Be careful not to overmeasure the flour – spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
* Optional: 1 cup chocolate chips. I like to use dark chocolate for extra richness.
For the Filling:
* 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened. Make sure the cream cheese is completely softened, or it will be lumpy.
* ½ cup granulated sugar. You can adjust this to taste depending on how sweet you like your cream cheese filling.
* 1 large egg. This helps to bind the filling together.
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.
For the Glaze:
* 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter
* 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
* 2 cups powdered sugar
* 1/4 cup milk
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. If you have an overhang on the sides of a pan, you can line it with parchment paper. I use parchment paper to make brownies, but I find that it’s the best method. It doesn’t stick. Is it easy to lift them out once they’re cooled? Is it a lifesaver?
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and flour. Make sure there are no lumps in the cocoa powder. This step is important because it ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the sugar until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and glossy. I like to use a whisk for this step to ensure that the eggs are fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix the brownie batter – over mixing can lead to tough brownies. If you’re adding chocolate chips, fold them in gently. The batter should be thick and fudgy.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Set aside. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. The filling should be light and fluffy. If cream cheese is not softened enough, it will be difficult to get the filling smooth.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese filling over the brownie batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cream cheese filling into the brownie batter. Don’t overswirl – you want to create a marbled effect, not completely blend the two batters together. I like to create a figure-eight pattern with the knife for a pretty swirl.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. How do you overbake brownies? How long does it take to bake a cake? I always start checking my emails at 30 minutes.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before frosting. The glaze is optional, but it takes these brownies to the next level. To make the glaze, melt the butter and unsweetened chocolate in a saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Pour the glaze over the cooled brownies.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
What are some of the best brownie recipes? Cut brownies into squares and serve. I like to sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a pretty presentation. What are some great side dishes to serve with vanilla ice cream?
What should I serve it with?
These Cream Cheese Brownies are amazing all on their own, but they’re even better when paired with the right accompaniments. For breakfast, I love serving them with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. The richness of the brownies is perfectly balanced by the bitterness of the coffee or the coolness of the milk. For brunch, these brownies make a beautiful addition to a dessert platter. I like to arrange them alongside fresh berries, whipped cream, and other sweet treats. Serve with a glass of champagne or a mimosa for a truly decadent brunch experience. As a dessert, these brownies are fantastic with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. I also like to drizzle them with a little chocolate sauce or caramel sauce for extra indulgence. For cozy snacks, these brownies are perfect with a warm mug of hot chocolate or a cup of tea. Curl up on the couch with a good book and a brownie, and you’ve got yourself the perfect afternoon treat. My family tradition is to always have them on hand during the holidays. They always disappear FAST!
How do I make a creamy brownie recipe?
How do you take your Cream Cheese Brownies to the next level? What are some tips for perfecting a recipe?Mixing Advice:Do not overmix brownie batter. Overmixing can lead to hard brownies. Mix until just combined.Swirl Customization Get creative with your swirls! Try using different patterns or colors to create a unique look. You can even add a few drops of food coloring to the cream cheese filling for a fun twist. Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to experiment with different extracts or flavors. I’ve tried adding a little peppermint extract to the cream cheese filling for a festive holiday treat. Almond extract is also a great option. Baking Tips: Keep an eye on the brownies while they’re baking. The baking time may vary depending on your oven. They’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Glaze Variations: The glaze is optional, but it adds a beautiful finishing touch to the brownies. You can customize the glaze by adding different flavors or extracts. I’ve tried adding a little coffee extract to the glaze for a mocha-flavored brownie. I learned the hard way that underbaking is better than overbaking – slightly gooey brownies are much better than dry, crumbly ones. And remember, don’t be afraid to experiment! This recipe is super forgiving, so feel free to put your own spin on it. It has taken me countless tries to get this just right, but i feel that this is the best way to achieve the perfect swirl.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Cream Cheese Brownies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for later. Room Temperature: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They may become slightly drier after the first day. Refrigerator Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They will become firmer in the refrigerator, but they will still be delicious. Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw the brownies overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning on freezing the brownies, it’s best to add the glaze after they’ve been thawed. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy. I’ve found that chilling them actually enhances the fudgy texture!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my all-time favorite Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe! I truly believe that these are the best brownies you’ll ever taste. The combination of rich, chocolatey goodness with the creamy, tangy cream cheese swirl is simply irresistible. They’re easy to make, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, these brownies are sure to hit the spot. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other brownie variations – I have a chocolate chip brownie recipe and another one for peanut butter brownies that you might enjoy. Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Let me know in the comments below if you try them and what you think!
Marble Cheesecake Brownies: Secrets to a Perfect Swirl
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 18 oz chocolate brownie mix for an 8x8 inch pan
- 0.5 cup butter melted
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
Cheesecake Swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract pure
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix, melted butter, and beaten eggs. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the sugar and continue to mix until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture in dollops over the brownie batter, then swirl with a knife for a marble effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then cut into squares and serve.
