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Decadent Cream Cheese Brownies

cream cheese brownies - featured image

Rich, fudgy brownies with tangy cream cheese swirls create an irresistible marbled dessert that’s quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • ⅓ cup (67g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on sides and lightly grease the parchment.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk melted butter and granulated sugar until combined and glossy, about 1-2 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture using a spatula until just combined and thick.
  4. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer or whisk. Add sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract; mix until creamy and lump-free.
  5. Pour about two-thirds of brownie batter into prepared pan, spreading evenly. Dollop cream cheese mixture on top in spoonfuls. Add remaining brownie batter in spoonfuls over cream cheese.
  6. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the two batters together to create a marbled effect without fully blending.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes. Check at 35 minutes by inserting a toothpick near center; it should come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.
  8. Cool brownies completely in pan on a wire rack. Use parchment overhang to lift brownies out and cut into 9 squares.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese at room temperature to avoid lumps. Do not overmix the batter to keep brownies fudgy. Swirl gently with a toothpick for a marbled look. Cool completely before slicing for clean cuts. Optionally add 1 tablespoon espresso powder to enhance chocolate flavor. For gluten-free, substitute almond flour. For dairy-free, use plant-based cream cheese and vegan butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: cream cheese brownies, fudgy brownies, swirl brownies, chocolate dessert, easy brownies, quick dessert, marbled brownies