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Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 73 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 9 brownies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.