Homemade Cream Cheese Brownies

Introduction

Indulge in the irresistible combination of rich, fudgy brownies and creamy cream cheese with Homemade Cream Cheese Brownies. This recipe offers a delightful twist on classic brownies, adding a luscious cheesecake swirl for a decadent treat that is sure to please your taste buds.

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re a fan of the classic brownie but want to elevate it with a creamy, tangy twist, then this recipe is perfect for you. The marriage of chocolatey brownie goodness with a velvety cream cheese swirl creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is both comforting and luxurious.

How to Make Homemade Cream Cheese Brownies

Ingredients:

• For the Brownies:

  • 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon-sized pieces
  • ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup natural cocoa powder
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar, light or dark, packed
  • 2 large eggs + 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

• For the Cheesecake Swirl:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 7×11 pan with baking spray.
2. Combine butter and chocolate chips in a large, microwave-safe bowl.
3. Microwave in short intervals until melted and well combined.
4. Add cocoa powder, sugars, eggs, vanilla extract, salt, and flour; mix well.
5. Reserve ¼ cup of the batter and spread the rest into the prepared pan. Prepare the cheesecake topping.

How to Serve Homemade Cream Cheese Brownies

Serve these delightful brownies at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy them on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

How to Store Homemade Cream Cheese Brownies

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips to Make Homemade Cream Cheese Brownies

1. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for a smooth and creamy cheesecake swirl.
2. Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a fudgy brownie texture.
3. Use high-quality chocolate for a rich and decadent flavor.

Variation

For a twist on the flavor profile, consider adding a swirl of raspberry or strawberry jam to the cream cheese mixture before baking for a fruity complement to the chocolatey brownies.

FAQs

1. Can I use dark cocoa powder instead of natural cocoa powder? Yes, dark cocoa powder will yield a richer and more intense chocolate flavor.
2. Can I use margarine instead of butter in the brownie batter? It’s best to use unsalted butter for the best texture and flavor.
3. Can I omit the cream cheese swirl for plain brownies? Yes, you can skip the cheesecake swirl and bake the brownies as a classic chocolate treat.