Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9X13 baking pan with a non-stick cooking spray.

Stir together all the brownie ingredients in a mixing bowl.

Pour into the baking dish and bake for 25-28 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center of the brownies comes out clean.

Remove the  brownies from the oven and let them cool completely at room temperature.

While the brownies are cooling, prepare the French silk layer of the brownies.

Beat the cream cheese and the vanilla extract with a stand up mixer or hand held mixer until combined and creamy.

Gradually add in the confectioner’s sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing after each addition until combined and smooth.

Place the semi-sweet chocolate and butter in a small microwave safe dish.  Microwave in 20 second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is melted and combined with the butter.

Beat the chocolate mixture into the cream cheese mixture and stir until well combined.

Then gently fold in 8 ounces of the whipped topping until just combined.

Spread the French silk layer mixture on top of the cooled brownies in an even layer.

Spread the remaining whipped topping on top of the French silk layer. Top with the chocolate shaving (if using).

Refrigerate the brownies until ready to serve.

Then the brownies are ready to slice, serve and enjoy!