Cream Cheese Brownies are the ultimate fusion of rich, fudgy chocolate and luscious, tangy cream cheese. If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that combines the best of both worlds—decadent chocolate and smooth, creamy cheesecake—this recipe is your dream come true. The marbled swirl on top isn’t just visually stunning; it also hints at the heavenly layers of flavor within. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or indulging in a sweet treat for yourself, these brownies are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love These Cream Cheese Brownies
Cream Cheese Brownies strike the perfect balance between gooey, chocolatey goodness and a tangy cheesecake swirl. They look bakery-worthy with their marbled tops, yet they’re surprisingly simple to make at home. The contrast of textures and flavors is irresistible—dense brownie base, creamy topping, and a beautiful swirl that gives each bite a little of everything. These are perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a comforting weekend bake.
Ingredients
Cream Cheese Swirl
4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
½ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Brownie Batter
⅔ cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
4 ounces semi-sweet baking chocolate, chopped (or substitute chocolate chips)
8 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step: How to Make Cream Cheese Brownies
1. Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese, sour cream, granulated sugar, and flour. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish
Line an 8-inch square baking dish with an 8×12-inch sheet of parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the brownies out later with ease. Lightly spray the parchment with nonstick cooking spray.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside.
4. Melt Chocolate and Butter
Combine the chopped chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until the mixture is melted and smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.
5. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Stir in the cooled chocolate mixture.
6. Mix the Batter
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
7. Assemble
Reserve ½ cup of the brownie batter. Spread the remaining batter evenly into the prepared pan. Carefully spoon the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer and smooth it out. Drop spoonfuls of the reserved brownie batter on top. Use a knife to gently swirl the layers together, leaving about a ½-inch border untouched.
8. Bake
Place the pan in a preheated 325°F oven. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the brownie (not the cream cheese) comes out mostly clean.
9. Cool
Let the brownies cool in the pan for 1 hour. Then use the parchment paper to lift them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Helpful Tips
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother blend.
Don’t Overbake: Brownies should be just set in the center. Insert the toothpick into the brownie portion only for accurate testing.
Neat Slices: Chill the brownies before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Substitutions and Variations
Chocolate Chips: If you’re out of baking chocolate, chocolate chips work well too.
Espresso Kick: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.
Zesty Twist: A bit of lemon zest in the cream cheese filling adds a refreshing contrast.
Toppings: Drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over cooled brownies for extra indulgence, or serve with fresh berries to add tartness.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap brownies individually and freeze them in a freezer-safe bag. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving, or enjoy them slightly chilled.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 378 kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 84mg
Sodium: 197mg
Potassium: 152mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 30g
Vitamin A: 620IU
Calcium: 54mg
Iron: 1.5mg
Serving Suggestions
These brownies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or an espresso. You can also serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Garnish with a few fresh berries for color and a bit of tartness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Brownies
Can I use low-fat cream cheese or sour cream?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat versions, but the final texture may be less rich and creamy. It’s best to use full-fat for the most indulgent results.
Can I freeze Cream Cheese Brownies?
Absolutely. Once fully cooled, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature or enjoy them slightly chilled.
Will the cream cheese layer affect the texture?
Not at all—it adds a lovely, creamy contrast to the dense brownie base. It actually enhances the texture by creating a delightful balance of fudgy and creamy in every bite.
Conclusion
Thank you for stopping by and trying out these irresistible Cream Cheese Brownies. I truly hope they bring as much joy to your kitchen as they do to mine. With their easy preparation and unforgettable flavor, they’re a dessert you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re baking for friends or treating yourself, these brownies are a surefire hit. Happy baking, and I’m so grateful to have you as part of this food-loving community!
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Cream Cheese Brownies
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Description
Cream Cheese Brownies are a decadent dessert combining a rich, fudgy brownie base with a smooth cream cheese swirl. This easy recipe delivers a stunning marbled top and a satisfying mix of textures and flavors in every square.
Ingredients
For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the Brownie Batter:
⅔ cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
4 oz semi-sweet baking chocolate, chopped
8 tbsp unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with an 8×12-inch piece of parchment paper, leaving an overhang. Spray lightly.
In a small bowl, whisk together cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and flour until smooth. Set aside.
In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
Melt chocolate and butter in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth. Let cool.
Whisk sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a bowl. Stir in cooled chocolate mixture.
Add dry ingredients to wet and mix until just combined.
Reserve ½ cup of the batter. Spread the rest into the pan.
Layer the cream cheese mixture on top. Drop reserved brownie batter in spoonfuls and swirl with a knife.
Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the brownie portion comes out clean.
Cool in pan for 1 hour, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Ensure cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for best texture.
Chocolate chips can replace chopped chocolate if needed.
Add espresso powder or lemon zest for flavor variations.
Chill before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Store in the fridge; let stand at room temp for 1 hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 378
- Sugar: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 4g