🧀🍫 Cream Cheese Brownies

Fudgy, Rich, and Swirled to Perfection

Few desserts strike a more blissful balance than a brownie. Add a luscious cream cheese swirl, and you’ve taken it to the next level. These Cream Cheese Brownies combine a rich, fudgy chocolate base with a velvety cheesecake layer—every bite is decadently smooth, perfectly sweet, and a little bit tangy.

Whether you’re baking for a casual weeknight, potluck, or craving something special, these brownies are easy to make and impossible to resist. They look as impressive as they taste, with gorgeous marbled swirls and a satisfying texture that walks the line between chewy and creamy.

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🌟 Why You’ll Love These Cream Cheese Brownies

• Two desserts in one – Brownies + cheesecake = magic.
• No fancy tools needed – Just bowls, a whisk, and a pan.
• Fudgy and creamy textures – A bite of both in every forkful.
• Make-ahead friendly – Even better the next day after chilling.
• Perfect for gifting, sharing, or sneaky midnight snacking.

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🍫 Ingredients Breakdown

Brownie Layer

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick) – The base of the batter, melted for easy mixing.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens and gives that classic chewy texture.
• 2 large eggs – Provide structure and richness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Balances and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Rich, chocolatey goodness.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Gives the brownies their base structure.
• 1/4 tsp salt + 1/4 tsp baking powder – Helps balance and lift the batter slightly.

Cream Cheese Layer

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened – The star of the swirl! Use full-fat for best results.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the tangy cream cheese.
• 1 large egg – Makes the layer light and smooth.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a mellow sweetness.

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prep Your Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line or grease an 8×8-inch square pan. Lining with parchment helps with clean removal.

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2️⃣ Make the Brownie Batter

• In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
• Add cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder.
• Stir until just combined—don’t overmix.

Texture Tip: The batter will be thick but glossy—perfect for swirling!

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3️⃣ Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

• In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
• Use a hand mixer or whisk until no lumps remain.

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4️⃣ Assemble the Layers

• Pour 3/4 of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
• Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top.
• Add the remaining brownie batter between the dollops of cream cheese.

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5️⃣ Swirl It

• Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers together. Aim for a marbled pattern—don’t overdo it.

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6️⃣ Bake

• Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly fudgy.
• A toothpick inserted near the center should come out with a few moist crumbs—not completely dry.

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7️⃣ Cool & Chill

• Let brownies cool completely in the pan.
• Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing to set the layers and enhance the flavor.

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🧁 Tips for the Best Brownies

• Room temp cream cheese blends more easily and gives a smoother swirl.
• Don’t skip the chill time—it makes cutting easier and the flavor richer.
• Use quality cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor.
• Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days—if they last that long!

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🍴 Variations & Serving Ideas

• Add chocolate chips or chunks to the brownie batter for extra indulgence.
• Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel once cooled.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream.
• Sprinkle with crushed walnuts or pecans before baking for a nutty crunch.

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❄️ Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temp.

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