Cream Cheese Brownies

Cream Cheese Brownies skillfully combine the smooth, sophisticated tanginess of cream cheese with the dense, rich chocolatey richness of classic brownies. A sophisticated take on a well-loved classic, these decadent pairings produce a velvety texture and a balanced blend of flavors that are ideal for any dessert aficionado.

Tasting Notes

The Cream Cheese Brownies strike a perfect balance between fudgy chocolate and tangy cream cheese. The smooth and velvety texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more. Share them with friends, family, or keep them all to yourself – these brownies are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Brownie Batter:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Swirl:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Kitchen Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top of the brownie batter.
6. Use a knife or a skewer to swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
8. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Pro Tips

• For a fudgier texture, slightly underbake the brownies – the residual heat will continue to cook them as they cool.
• Experiment with different flavors by adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or a hint of espresso to the brownie batter.

Variations

• White Chocolate Raspberry: Swirl in a raspberry puree and sprinkle white chocolate chips on top before baking.
• Mint Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cream cheese mixture for a refreshing twist.

FAQs

Enjoy baking and savoring these delightful Cream Cheese Brownies!