Dreamy Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Creamy swirls of cream cheese frosting can turn ordinary brownies into a decadent chocolate dream.

Rich dark chocolate mingles with smooth cream cheese in this irresistible dessert.

My grandmother’s secret recipe blends traditional techniques with modern twists.

Chocolate lovers will appreciate the delicate balance between fudgy brownie layers and silky frosting.

Every bite promises a luxurious combination of textures and flavors.

Unexpected ingredients elevate this classic treat from good to absolutely spectacular.

You won’t be able to resist slicing into these indulgent brownies that are guaranteed to impress.

Drinks And Treats That Pair With Brownies With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Sip Smooth Moscato: Pair these rich brownies with a chilled, sweet Moscato wine that complements the chocolate's depth and cuts through the cream cheese frosting's richness.
• Match Creamy Cappuccino: Enjoy a warm cappuccino alongside the brownies, where the espresso's bold flavor balances the sweet chocolate and provides a delightful contrast to the creamy frosting.
• Serve Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Top the brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, creating a decadent dessert experience where the cold, smooth ice cream melts into the warm, fudgy chocolate.
• Blend Dark Roast Coffee: Brew a strong dark roast coffee to serve with these brownies, allowing the robust coffee notes to enhance the chocolate's intense flavor and cleanse the palate between bites.

New Twists On Brownies With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Nutty Chocolate Adventure: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and rich, earthy flavor. These nuts complement the chocolate perfectly and provide a delightful texture contrast.
• Salted Caramel Creation: Drizzle homemade salted caramel sauce over the cream cheese frosting to enhance the brownie's depth and create a sweet-salty experience that tantalizes taste buds.
• Raspberry Ripple Edge: Swirl raspberry preserves through the batter before baking, adding a bright, fruity note that cuts through the rich chocolate intensity and creates beautiful marbled patterns.
• Espresso Intensity Boost: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder into the dry ingredients to intensify the chocolate flavor and give the brownies a sophisticated, deeper taste profile.

Brownies With Cream Cheese Frosting FAQs

• What makes these brownies special?

These brownies are rich and decadent, featuring a perfect balance of melted butter, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips that create an intensely fudgy texture. The cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious, tangy layer that elevates the classic brownie.

• Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for standard chocolate chips, you can experiment with dark, milk, or semi-sweet chocolate chips depending on your preference. Just ensure they’re baking-quality chips that will melt smoothly into the batter.

• How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

Look for a few moist crumbs on your toothpick when inserted into the center. The edges should be slightly pulled away from the pan, and the top should look set but not completely dry. This ensures a wonderfully fudgy texture.

• Are these brownies good for people who don't like super sweet desserts?

Yes! The cream cheese frosting provides a subtle tanginess that cuts through the sweetness, making these brownies appealing to those who prefer less sugary treats. The combination of cocoa and brown sugar creates a more complex flavor profile.

Why Brownies With Cream Cheese Frosting Taste Extra Special

• Whip Up Quick Comfort: These brownies are a speedy dessert solution that transforms basic pantry ingredients into a decadent treat in under an hour, perfect for sudden sweet cravings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Chocolate Delight: The rich chocolate flavor and creamy frosting make these brownies an instant hit for family gatherings, potlucks, and casual weekend celebrations, appealing to both kids and adults.
• Beginner Baker's Dream: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe welcomes novice bakers, offering an easy introduction to homemade desserts without complicated techniques or specialized equipment.
• Customize Your Chocolate Experience: The flexible recipe allows fun variations like adding chocolate chips, nuts, or experimenting with different frosting flavors, making it a versatile canvas for personal creativity.

Brownies With Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredient List

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and texture for the brownies.
• Cocoa Powder: Gives rich chocolate flavor and deep color.
• Baking Powder: Helps brownies rise and become light.
• Salt: Enhances overall chocolate flavor.

• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to brownies.
• Unsalted Butter: Creates richness and helps bind ingredients.
• Eggs: Provides structure and helps bind the batter.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and complements chocolate flavor.

• Chocolate Chips: Optional ingredient for extra chocolate chunks.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Creamy topping to complement chocolate brownies.

How To Bake Brownies With Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Station

Warm up the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and either coat it with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Create the Wet Mixture

• Melted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar

Whisk these ingredients until they become a smooth, glossy mixture.

Step 3: Incorporate Binding Ingredients

• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

Whisk thoroughly until everything is perfectly combined and looks silky.

Step 4: Prepare Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Cocoa powder
• Salt
• Baking powder

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined – don’t overmix! If desired, sprinkle in chocolate chips and fold softly.

Step 6: Fill the Baking Pan

Transfer the rich batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring a smooth top.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Prepare for Frosting

Remove from oven and let the brownies cool completely. This patience ensures perfect frosting application.

Step 9: Create Cream Cheese Frosting

• Softened cream cheese
• Butter
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract

Beat until smooth and fluffy.

Step 10: Frost and Serve

Spread the creamy frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Slice into squares and enjoy your homemade treat!

Tips To Get The Best Brownies With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Customize Your Frosting: Adjust cream cheese frosting sweetness by adding more powdered sugar for extra sweetness or less for a tangy flavor.
• Control Brownie Texture: Avoid overmixing batter to prevent tough brownies; stir ingredients just until combined for a fudgy, tender result.
• Enhance Chocolate Depth: Use high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips to intensify the rich chocolate flavor and create a more complex taste.
• Perfect Cooling Technique: Allow brownies to cool completely at room temperature before adding frosting to prevent melting and ensure smooth application.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version that maintains delicious texture.

How To Store Brownies With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Refrigerate brownies in an airtight container to maintain their delicious moisture and flavor.
• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap or place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking and preserve freshness.
• Store brownies at room temperature for up to 3 days or keep them refrigerated for up to 5 days for extended enjoyment.
• Freeze brownies for longer storage by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe container, where they'll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy frozen brownies, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for 1-2 hours for the best texture and taste.

Brownies With Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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4.8 from 10 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 16 1x

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Description

Indulgent chocolate brownies with cream cheese frosting offer a delightful balance of rich, fudgy texture and tangy sweetness. Chocolate lovers will savor each luxurious bite of this classic dessert that combines intense cocoa depth with creamy, smooth frosting.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients (Brownies):

• 1 cup (226 grams or 2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 ¼ cups (250 grams) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (165 grams) light brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (75 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional, for extra fudginess)

Binding and Flavoring Ingredients (Brownies):

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (113 grams or 1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. Prepare your workspace by preheating the oven and setting up a 9×13-inch baking vessel with a protective parchment lining or a light butter coating.
2. Create a silky base by thoroughly blending melted butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture transforms into a smooth, glossy consistency.
3. Introduce eggs and vanilla extract, whisking vigorously to ensure a uniform, well-integrated liquid foundation.
4. In a separate container, carefully sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder, eliminating any potential lumps and creating a fine, even dry mixture.
5. Gently incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, using delicate folding motions to maintain the batter’s airy texture. Tenderly fold in chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
6. Transfer the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread the mixture into a uniform layer that reaches all corners of the pan.
7. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, watching for the signature signs of perfectly baked brownies – a set exterior with a slightly soft center.
8. Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely, giving the internal structure time to stabilize and set.
9. Once thoroughly cooled, prepare to apply the cream cheese frosting, transforming these rich chocolate squares into an indulgent dessert.

Notes

• Customize the brownie texture by adjusting butter temperature. Cold butter creates denser brownies, while room temperature butter yields a lighter crumb.
• Prevent chocolate chips from sinking by coating them lightly in flour before folding into the batter. This helps distribute them evenly throughout the brownies.
• For gluten-free alternatives, replace wheat flour with almond or coconut flour. These options provide a rich, moist alternative while catering to dietary restrictions.
• Create a swirl effect with cream cheese frosting by using a piping bag or zigzagging a knife through the surface. This adds visual appeal and a professional touch to your dessert.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 16
• Calories: 329
• Sugar: 24 g
• Sodium: 117 mg
• Fat: 19 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg