Why Make This Recipe
Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies are a delicious twist on a classic treat. They combine the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves chocolate and cream cheese. You can enjoy these brownies as a dessert or share them at gatherings and celebrations.
How to Make Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the cream cheese swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined.
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla until smooth.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter and then add the rest of the brownie batter on top.
- Use a knife to swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies
Serve these brownies warm or at room temperature. They pair nicely with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar for an extra touch.
How to Store Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well.
Tips to Make Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Do not overmix the brownie batter; mix just until combined for the best texture.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the brownie batter.
Variation
You can add different flavors to the cream cheese layer. For example, mix in some lemon zest or almond extract to give it a unique taste. You can also sprinkle nuts or chocolate chips on top for added texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can try using mascarpone or ricotta cheese instead of cream cheese for a different flavor.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter, they are ready to be taken out of the oven.
Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1 stick, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Making the Brownie Batter
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined.
Making the Cream Cheese Layer
- In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla until smooth.
Assembling and Baking
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter and then add the rest of the brownie batter on top.
- Use a knife to swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.