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Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe

The best cream cheese brownies recipe! Combine fudgy chocolate brownies with creamy cheesecake swirls for an irresistible dessert.
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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American/Fusion Dessert
Keyword: Cream Cheese Brownies
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 24 Brownies
Calories: 265kcal
Cost: $8-12

Equipment

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

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base:

  • 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

Step 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

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

    If using box mix:

    • Follow the package instructions to prepare the brownie batter
    • Set aside while preparing cream cheese mixture

    If making from scratch:

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

    Step 3: Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture

    • Beat softened cream cheese until smooth
    • Add sugar and mix until creamy
    • Beat in egg and vanilla until well combined
    • Make sure mixture is lump-free

    Step 4: Layer and Swirl

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

    Step 5: Bake

    • Bake for 35-40 minutes
    • Check with toothpick - should have moist crumbs
    • Let cool completely before cutting

    Notes

    • Bring cream cheese to room temperature for smooth mixing
    • Don't overmix the swirls - less is more
    • Use a warm knife for clean cuts
    • Chill brownies before cutting for neater squares

    Nutrition

    Serving: 565 | Calories: 265kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 180mg | Potassium: 120mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 25g | Iron: 1mg