These decadent cream cheese brownies are the perfect fusion of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake. With a beautiful swirl on top, they're not only delicious but also visually appealing. They make a delightful treat for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, but you may need to pick up a few items such as cream cheese and semisweet chocolate chips. Additionally, ensure you have natural cocoa powder, which can be found in the baking aisle of your supermarket.
Ingredients For Cream Cheese Brownies
unsalted butter: Provides moisture and a rich flavor to the brownies.
semisweet chocolate chips: Adds chocolatey sweetness and helps to create a fudgy texture.
natural cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and gives the brownies their dark color.
sugar: Sweetens the brownie batter, providing balance to the rich chocolate.
brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor and moisture.
eggs: Acts as a binding agent and contributes to the fudgy texture.
vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the brownies and cheesecake swirl.
salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the brownies.
cream cheese: Creates the creamy cheesecake swirl on top of the brownies.
One reader, Adi Worrell says:
These cream cheese brownies are divine! The rich, fudgy brownie base perfectly complements the creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl. Easy to follow instructions and the result is a decadent treat that everyone loved. Will definitely make again!
Essential Techniques for Making Cream Cheese Brownies
How to melt chocolate and butter in the microwave: Combine butter and chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in intervals, stirring well after each interval until completely melted and combined.
How to mix ingredients properly: Add ingredients one at a time, stirring well after each addition to ensure a smooth and well-combined batter.
How to prepare cheesecake topping: Beat cream cheese and sugar until creamy, then stir in egg and vanilla extract until well-combined.
How to swirl batter: Drop or drizzle reserved brownie batter over cheesecake layer and use a knife to create a marbled effect by swirling the two together.
How to check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies; it should come out mostly clean with a few fudgy crumbs.
How To Make Cream Cheese Brownies
The swirl of chocolate and cream cheese is an appetizing invitation to create these cream cheese brownies at home. It’s easy, fudgy, and delicious! Try it!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Brownies:
- 12tbspunsalted butter,cut into tablespoon-sized pieces
- ½cupsemisweet chocolate chips
- ½cupnatural cocoa powder
- 1cupsugar
- ½cupbrown sugar
- 2largeeggs,+ 1 egg yolk
- 1tspvanilla extract
- ½tspsalt
- 1cupall-purpose flour
For Cheesecake Swirl:
- 8ozcream cheese,softened to room temperature
- ¼cupsugar
- 1largeegg
- ½tspvanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and spray a 7×11-inch pan with baking spray.
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Combine butter and chocolate chips in a large, microwave-safe bowl.
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Microwave for 30 seconds. Stir well and microwave again for another 15 seconds and then stir well again. Repeat in 15 second intervals until chocolate and butter are completely melted and well-combined.
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Add cocoa powder and stir well.
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Add sugars, stir until completely combined.
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Add eggs and then egg yolk, one at a time, stirring well after each addition.
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Add vanilla extract and salt and stir to combine.
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Add flour and stir until completely combined.
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Reserve ¼ cup of the batter and spread the rest of the batter evenly into prepared pan. Prepare your cheesecake topping.
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Combine cream cheese and sugar in a medium-sized bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat until creamy.
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Stir in egg and vanilla extract. Stir until well-combined.
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Pour cheesecake over prepared brownie batter. Take your reserved ¼ cup brownie batter and drop/drizzle over cheesecake.
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Use a knife to swirl brownie batter and cheesecake together.
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Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few fudgy crumbs.
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Allow cooling completely before cutting and serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 222.06kcal
- Fat: 13.16g
- Saturated Fat: 7.75g
- Trans Fat: 0.28g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.58g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.64g
- Carbohydrates: 25.39g
- Fiber: 1.22g
- Sugar: 18.84g
- Protein: 2.94g
- Cholesterol: 58.69mg
- Sodium: 113.34mg
- Calcium: 25.64mg
- Potassium: 88.83mg
- Iron: 0.93mg
- Vitamin A: 111.78µg
Expert Tip for Perfecting Your Cream Cheese Brownie Technique
When making the cheesecake swirl, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This will help achieve a smoother, creamier texture and make it easier to combine with the sugar and egg. If the cream cheese is too cold, it may result in a lumpy mixture, affecting the final swirl appearance and texture.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Cream Cheese Brownies
Melt butter and chocolate together: Use a microwave to quickly melt butter and chocolate chips instead of a double boiler.
Use an electric mixer: An electric mixer speeds up the process of combining cream cheese and sugar for the cheesecake swirl.
Pre-measure ingredients: Have all ingredients pre-measured and ready to go before you start mixing.
Line the pan with parchment paper: This makes it easier to remove the brownies from the pan and cuts down on cleanup time.
Combine dry ingredients in advance: Mix flour, cocoa powder, and salt together ahead of time to streamline the process.
Substitute Ingredients For Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, making it a good alternative for baking.
semisweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips offer a richer flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
natural cocoa powder - Substitute with Dutch-processed cocoa powder: Dutch-processed cocoa powder has a smoother, less acidic taste and can be used interchangeably.
sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique flavor and moisture, but reduce other liquids slightly to compensate.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) are a good vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and offers a slightly different mineral content.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the brownies slightly denser.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, with added protein.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and moisture, but reduce other liquids slightly to compensate.
egg - Substitute with silken tofu: Silken tofu can be blended to a smooth consistency and used as a vegan alternative to eggs.
vanilla extract - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest adds a fresh, citrusy flavor that complements the cheesecake swirl.
How to Present Cream Cheese Brownies for Maximum Appeal
Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the cream cheese brownies into elegant, bite-sized squares to ensure each piece is a perfect balance of brownie and cheesecake.
Use a pristine white plate: Present the brownies on a clean, white plate to make the rich, dark chocolate and creamy cheesecake swirl stand out visually.
Add a garnish: Place a small, fresh mint leaf or a few raspberries on top of each brownie square to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Drizzle with sauce: Lightly drizzle a fine line of raspberry coulis or chocolate ganache around the plate for an artistic touch and additional flavor.
Use a stencil for powdered sugar: Lightly dust the top of the brownies with powdered sugar using a stencil to create a delicate, intricate pattern.
Serve with a quenelle of ice cream: Add a small quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream or whipped cream beside the brownie for a luxurious and creamy contrast.
Incorporate texture: Sprinkle a few toasted nuts or chocolate shavings around the plate to add a crunchy texture and enhance the overall presentation.
Use edible flowers: Place a couple of small, edible flowers such as violets or pansies on the plate to elevate the visual appeal and add a touch of sophistication.
Create height: Stack two or three brownie squares slightly off-center to create a sense of height and dimension on the plate.
Finish with a touch of gold: For the ultimate luxurious touch, add a small piece of edible gold leaf on top of each brownie square to impress and delight the culinary professionals.
Essential Tools for Making the Perfect Batch of Brownies
Oven: Used to bake the brownies and cheesecake swirl at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Baking spray: Used to coat the 7×11-inch pan to prevent sticking.
7×11-inch pan: The baking dish where the brownie batter and cheesecake swirl will be combined and baked.
Microwave-safe bowl: Used to melt the butter and chocolate chips together in the microwave.
Microwave: Used to melt the butter and chocolate chips in intervals.
Stirring spoon: Used to mix the ingredients together at various stages.
Electric mixer: Used to beat the cream cheese and sugar until creamy for the cheesecake swirl.
Knife: Used to swirl the brownie batter and cheesecake together.
Toothpick: Used to check if the brownies are done by inserting it into the center to see if it comes out mostly clean.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the cream cheese and sugar, and later to mix in the egg and vanilla extract for the cheesecake topping.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients like butter, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugars, flour, and cream cheese.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out smaller quantities of ingredients like vanilla extract and salt.
Storing and Freezing Cream Cheese Brownies: A Guide
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for cream cheese brownies:
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making them soggy.
- Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- For longer storage, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To thaw, remove the brownies from the freezer and let them come to room temperature, still wrapped. This will prevent condensation from forming on the surface.
- For a quick treat, you can also microwave individual brownies for 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
- If you prefer a firmer cream cheese topping, store the brownies in the refrigerator. Let them come to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
How To Reheat Leftover Cream Cheese Brownies
The best way to reheat leftover cream cheese brownies is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the brownies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and the cream cheese topping is slightly melted. This method helps to maintain the texture and flavor of the brownies.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the brownies in the microwave. Place a single brownie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 15-second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cream cheese topping to become runny and the brownie to become tough.
For a crispy exterior and a gooey interior, try reheating the brownies in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the brownies in the basket. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you want to enjoy your leftover cream cheese brownies cold, simply remove them from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the cream cheese topping to soften slightly and the flavors to develop.
For a fun twist, try turning your leftover brownies into a brownie sundae. Warm up the brownie in the oven or microwave, then top it with a scoop of your favorite ice cream, some chocolate sauce, and a sprinkle of chopped nuts or whipped cream.
Interesting Trivia About Cream Cheese Brownies
A fun fact about this cream cheese brownies recipe is that the cheesecake swirl not only adds a delightful contrast in flavor but also creates a visually appealing marbled effect, making these brownies a showstopper at any gathering.
Is Making Cream Cheese Brownies at Home Cost-Effective?
When analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this dessert, the ingredients are relatively affordable. Butter, sugar, eggs, and flour are common pantry staples, while cream cheese and chocolate chips are moderately priced. The overall verdict for this cream cheese brownies recipe is a solid 8 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD, making it a budget-friendly treat.
Are Cream Cheese Brownies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The cream cheese brownies recipe is undeniably delicious, but it's not the healthiest treat out there. The recipe is high in fat and sugar, with ingredients like butter, chocolate chips, cream cheese, and a significant amount of sugar. While it does contain some protein from the eggs and a small amount of fiber from the flour, these nutrients are overshadowed by the high calorie and fat content.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter and replace some of it with unsweetened applesauce or mashed avocado for a healthier fat source
- Use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a higher percentage of cocoa and less sugar
- Cut back on the sugar in both the brownie batter and the cheesecake swirl, or use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit
- Incorporate whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Add in some chopped nuts or seeds for a boost of healthy fats and protein
- Serve smaller portions and pair with fresh fruit to balance out the richness of the brownies
Editor's Opinion: Why Cream Cheese Brownies Are a Must-Try
This cream cheese brownies recipe offers a delightful blend of rich, fudgy chocolate and tangy cheesecake. The method is straightforward, ensuring even novice bakers can achieve impressive results. The balance of sweetness from the sugars and the depth from the cocoa powder and chocolate chips create a decadent base. The cheesecake swirl adds a creamy contrast, making each bite a harmonious experience. The instructions are clear, but be mindful of not overbaking to maintain the desired fudgy texture. Overall, it's a crowd-pleaser that combines two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat.
Enhance Your Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Cream Cheese Brownies
Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Cream Cheese Brownies
Why trust this Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe:
This cream cheese brownies recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover. The combination of rich, fudgy brownies and creamy cheesecake swirl creates an irresistible treat. With clear, step-by-step instructions, even novice bakers can achieve perfect results. The use of high-quality ingredients like semisweet chocolate chips and natural cocoa powder ensures a decadent flavor. Plus, the recipe has been tested and refined to guarantee consistency. Trust this recipe to deliver a delightful dessert that will impress your family and friends.
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