Description
These cream cheese brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate with a creamy cheesecake swirl for a decadent dessert treat. The brownies are moist and tender with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Mix Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and combined. Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep the batter tender.
- Layer Brownie Batter: Pour most of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the batter to use for swirling on the top layer.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 egg, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Continue beating until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
- Assemble Layers: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan. Then, drop spoonfuls of the reserved brownie batter on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Create Swirls: Using a knife, gently swirl the top brownie batter spoonfuls into the cream cheese layer to create a marbled effect without fully mixing the two layers.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy.
- Cool and Serve: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into 9 squares. For cleaner cuts, chill the brownies for 30 minutes prior to slicing.
Notes
- For clean cuts, chill the brownies for 30 minutes before slicing.
- Store leftover brownies in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- These brownies also freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.