Indulge in rich and fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies that combine chocolate and creamy layers in every bite. These decadent treats are easy to make and perfect for dessert lovers.
These Cream Cheese Brownies are rich, fudgy, and perfectly balanced with a smooth, creamy swirl. They’re an indulgent treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
The cream cheese layer adds a luscious, tangy contrast to the deep chocolate base, creating a marble effect that looks as good as it tastes. Each bite is moist, decadent, and full of flavor, making these brownies a favorite for any occasion.
If you love cream cheese desserts, you are going to love this recipe. Also try Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Cookies, Cream Cheese Cookies Recipe and Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe.
Table of contents
Why We Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cream cheese creates a decadent, irresistible taste.
- Moist Texture: Cream cheese keeps the brownies soft and fudgy.
- Visually Appealing: The marbled layers look elegant and homemade.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together quickly for a show-stopping treat.
- Versatile: Perfect for parties, gifts, or a cozy dessert at home.
Ingredients
- Brownie Mix: Follow the instructions on the box and gather any additional ingredients it calls for.
- Cream Cheese: Softened to room temperature for smooth mixing. Learn how to properly soften cream cheese if needed.
- Large Egg: Room temperature eggs blend more evenly into the batter.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Regular white sugar for sweetness and structure.
Get the complete ingredient list at the bottom of the page.
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Brownies: Fold mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese layer for extra chocolatey bites.
- Nutty Brownies: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the cream cheese layer or brownie batter for crunch.
- Caramel Brownies: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cream cheese layer before baking for a rich, gooey treat.
- Fruity Brownies: Add fresh or frozen raspberries, cherries, or strawberries into the cream cheese layer for a fruity twist.
- Mocha Brownies: Mix a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder into the brownie batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl peanut butter into the cream cheese layer for a chocolate-peanut butter version.
Step By Step Instructions
- Step 1. Preheat oven to 350. Set the oven to 350 degrees and allow to warm up.
Step 2. Next, make the brownie batter. Stir the brownie mix in a bowl as directed on the package for a 9X13 baking pan. I used an electric mixer to whisk the ingredients.
Step 3. Pour the batter into prepared pan. Spread the batter evenly into the 9×13 baking dish.
Step 4. Combine the cheesecake batter. Use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Then add the egg and vanilla. Drop the cream cheese mixture by the spoonful all over the brownie batter. Use a knife to swirl the mixture back and forth to create a marbled look.
Step 5. Add the cream cheese to the brownie layer. Place in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until the cream cheese mixture is slightly browned. If you insert a toothpick into the center, only moist crumbs should be on it.
- Step 6. Cool. Allow the brownies to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting. Do not rush this step. It is important to allow time to cool before cutting.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with No Churn Vanilla Ice Cream.
- Top with Homemade Whipped Cream Recipe.
- Drizzle The BEST Homemade Hot Fudge Sauce on top.
- Add sprinkles on top for special occasions.
- Make a brownie sundae with nuts, ice cream, chocolate sauce, and more. This is delicious served warm. Just heat up the brownie in the microwave for a few seconds before topping it with ice cream.
FAQs
-First, make sure the brownies have completely cooled. Cutting brownies that are still warm will result in a mess. It is important to give them proper time to cool.
-The best way to cut brownies is with a plastic knife. They are nonstick and help to ensure clean cuts.
-As you see brownie start to build up on the knife, wipe with a napkin. Keeping your knife clean will help to cut the brownies better. I actually just wipe the knife after each cut. Each square will look nice and clean.
-Another tip is to run the knife under hot water. Just make sure to wipe it off so that it is completely cool before cutting.
-If you do not want to use a plastic knife, you can use a regular knife. However, I suggest spraying it with cooking spray.
As long as you follow these easy tips for cutting them, each square should be clean-cut. They will look amazing on your dessert table and so pretty.
The brownies can be kept for a day or 2 at room temperature. Any longer and they need to be refrigerated.
Place the brownies inside an airtight container. It should have a good lid. They will last in the fridge up to a week.
Yes, just make sure to use a good freezer container or freezer bag. I also would place a layer of wax paper between the brownies. This will help the brownies from sticking to each other. You can also freeze them individually using aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer container.
They can be frozen for up to 6 months. This is so handy if you need to make them for an event or holiday. Just make sure to let them thaw at room temperature a few hours before you are ready to serve.
The brownies will still taste delicious, and you will have more time to do other things. We often make these in advance for holidays, events, and more.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and egg are at room temperature to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the brownie batter to avoid deflating it.
- Prepare Your Pan: Line your baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to make removing the brownies easier.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
- Cool Completely: Let the brownies cool fully before cutting to help maintain clean, defined slices.
- Optional Toppings: Sprinkle chocolate chips, nuts, or drizzle melted chocolate on top before baking for extra flavor and texture.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
More Brownie Recipes
- Copycat Little Debbie Brownies
- Buckeye Brownies Recipe
- Mini brownie cupcakes recipe
- Salted Caramel Brownies
- Oreo Brownies
- Pecan Pie Brownies
It’s your turn to try this cheesecake brownies recipe. Please don’t forget to leave a comment once you do!
Cream Cheese Brownies
Ingredients
- 1 pkg brownie mix
- 1 pkg Cream cheese
- 1 egg
- ½ tsp vanilla
- 1 cup sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350.
- Prepare brownie batter as directed on package for a 9X13 pan. Spread the batter into a greased 13×9 inch pan.
- Beat Cream Cheese with mixer until creamy. Add Sugar, egg and vanilla. Mix well. Drop by tablespoonfuls over brownie batter.
- Swirl with knife.
- Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until cream cheese mixture is slightly browned. Cool completely before cutting.
I made this recipe and it turned out great!! Will definitely keep this in my recipe files!!
Peggy – Wahoo! So glad! Thanks for sharing.