Indulge in the rich, chocolatey goodness of cream cheese brownies that will tantalize your taste buds! This recipe merges fudgy brownies with a luscious cream cheese swirl, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures in every bite. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home, these brownies are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s simple yet elegant!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 egg (for cream cheese mixture)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream cheese mixture)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 16 brownies. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 brownie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Total Fat: 14g
– Saturated Fat: 8g
– Cholesterol: 70mg
– Sodium: 150mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 30g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 20g
– Protein: 3g
This nutritional value is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. In another bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
7. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
8. Add powdered sugar, one egg, and vanilla to the cream cheese, mixing until creamy.
9. Spread half the brownie batter into the prepared dish.
10. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer, then swirl with a knife.
11. Pour the remaining brownie batter over the top, spreading evenly.
12. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
13. Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute unsweetened applesauce for half of the butter to reduce fat. Additionally, using a dairy-free cream cheese can make this recipe vegan-friendly. Adjust sugar levels according to taste.
Serving and Pairings
These cream cheese brownies pair excellently with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a richer experience, serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of nuts.
Storage and Reheating
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overmixing the brownie batter can result in a dense texture.
– Not letting the cream cheese soften can lead to lumps.
– Baking too long can dry out the brownies; check for doneness regularly.
– Use quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
– Ensure your oven is preheated for even baking.
Helpful Tips
– Use a toothpick to check for doneness; moist crumbs are ideal.
– For extra flavor, add chocolate chips to the brownie batter.
– Allow brownies to cool completely for easier cutting.
– Experiment with toppings like nuts or caramel for added texture.
FAQs
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these brownies a day before serving. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
You can use mascarpone or ricotta cheese as an alternative to cream cheese for a different flavor profile, but adjust sugar accordingly.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake!
What can I add to the brownie mix?
You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or even swirls of peanut butter for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Conclusion
These cream cheese brownies are a delightful blend of rich chocolate and creamy goodness that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Perfect for any occasion, they are easy to make and even easier to love. Enjoy these decadent treats with friends and family, and watch them disappear!
Cream Cheese Brownies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg for cream cheese mixture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for cream cheese mixture
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar, one egg, and vanilla to the cream cheese, mixing until creamy.
- Spread half the brownie batter into the prepared dish.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer, then swirl with a knife.
- Pour the remaining brownie batter over the top, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
