Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe

Hey there! Ready to make cream cheese brownies that blow any box mix out of the water? You’re going to love this recipe! It’s the perfect combo of rich, fudgy chocolate brownies and a creamy, dreamy cream cheese swirl that’ll have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds). Whether you’re baking for a party, a bake sale, or just because you’re craving something extra special, these brownies are here to make your day a whole lot sweeter. Let’s get baking—you’ve got this!

Why These Cream Cheese Brownies Are Special

These brownies bring together two beloved desserts - classic fudgy brownies and creamy cheesecake. The cream cheese layer adds a tangy twist that perfectly balances the sweet, chocolatey base. Whether you're using a box mix as your starting point or making everything from scratch, these brownies will become your new favorite dessert.

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Perfect Serving Suggestions
• Variations
• Equipment
• Storage
• Top Tip
• FAQ
• The Final Slice
• Related
• Pairing
• Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base:

• 1 box brownie mix OR ingredients for homemade brownies:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Cream Cheese Swirl:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1: Prepare Your Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
• Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper
• Spray the parchment with non-stick cooking spray

2: Make the Brownie Batter

If using box mix:

1. Follow the package instructions to prepare the brownie batter
2. Set aside while preparing cream cheese mixture

If making from scratch:

1. Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl
2. Mix melted butter and sugar until well combined
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each
4. Stir in vanilla extract
5. In a separate bowl, combine cocoa powder, flour, and salt
6. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients
7. Fold in chocolate chips

3: Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture

1. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth
2. Add sugar and mix until creamy
3. Beat in egg and vanilla until well combined
4. Make sure mixture is lump-free

4: Layer and Swirl

1. Pour ⅔ of brownie batter into prepared pan
2. Drop spoonfuls of cream cheese mixture over brownie layer
3. Pour remaining brownie batter between cream cheese dollops
4. Use a knife to create swirls - don't overmix

5: Bake

1. Bake for 35-40 minutes
2. Check with toothpick - should have moist crumbs
3. Let cool completely before cutting

Perfect Serving Suggestions

These cream cheese brownies are perfect for:

• Dessert tables
• Bake sales
• Holiday gatherings
• Afternoon snacks
• Gift giving

Serve them:

• Plain (they're amazing on their own!)
• With a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Drizzled with chocolate sauce
• With fresh berries
• Alongside a cold glass of milk

Variations

• Chocolate Chip: Add extra chocolate chips to the cream cheese mixture
• Marbled: Create distinct swirls for a marbled effect
• Double Chocolate: Use chocolate cream cheese for the swirl
• Nutty: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Knife for swirling

Storage

• Counter: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Refrigerator: Keep fresh for up to 1 week
• Freezer: Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months

FAQ

The Final Slice

These cream cheese brownies are the ultimate dessert mashup—fudgy chocolate brownies meet creamy cheesecake swirls for a treat that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether you’re starting with a box mix or going the homemade route, they’re guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to try them. Make them once, and they’ll quickly become your favorite go-to brownie recipe!

Feeling inspired? Grab your apron and get baking! Don’t forget to snap a photo of your gorgeous swirled brownies and share it in the comments—we’d love to see your creations and hear what you think.

Looking for more dessert ideas? Check out our Protein Cookie Recipe for some fun and delicious meal prep inspiration!"

Related

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Pairing

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