Cream Cheese Brownies

These Cream Cheese Brownies are the ultimate dessert mash-up—fudgy, rich chocolate brownies swirled with a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer. With beautifully marbled tops and irresistible flavor in every bite, these brownies are perfect for sharing (or not) and guaranteed to disappear fast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers everything you want in a brownie: chewy edges, a gooey center, and deep chocolate flavor. The addition of a smooth cream cheese swirl adds a cheesecake-like tang and creamy texture that cuts through the richness, creating a perfect balance. Easy to prepare and visually impressive, these brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Brownie Layer:

• unsalted butter

• semisweet chocolate chips

• unsweetened cocoa powder

• granulated sugar

• brown sugar (light or dark)

• large eggs

• egg yolk

• vanilla extract

• salt

• all-purpose flour

Cheesecake Swirl:

• cream cheese, softened

• granulated sugar

• large egg

• vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease or spray a 7×11-inch metal baking pan with baking spray.

2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and chocolate chips. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then continue microwaving in 15-second intervals until completely melted and smooth.

3. Stir in the cocoa powder.

4. Add the granulated and brown sugars, mixing well.

5. Add eggs and egg yolk one at a time, stirring thoroughly after each addition.

6. Mix in vanilla extract and salt.

7. Stir in the flour until fully combined.

8. Reserve ¼ cup of the brownie batter, and spread the remaining batter evenly in the prepared pan.

Make the Cheesecake Swirl:
9. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth using an electric mixer.
10. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined and creamy.
11. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter in the pan.
12. Drop spoonfuls of the reserved brownie batter on top and use a knife to gently swirl the two batters together for a marbled effect.

Bake:
13. Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
14. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 20 brownies.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Double chocolate: Add ½ cup of chocolate chunks or chips to the brownie batter for extra richness.

• Nutty twist: Swirl in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.

• Salted swirl: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty combo.

• Fruit infusion: Add a layer of raspberry or cherry preserves under the cheesecake swirl for a fruity twist.

• Mini version: Bake in muffin tins for individual cream cheese brownie cups (adjust bake time to 18–22 minutes).

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooled brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

• Reheating: For a warm treat, microwave a brownie for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use a different size pan?

Yes, an 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan can work, but baking time may increase slightly and result in thicker brownies.

What kind of chocolate chips should I use?

Semisweet works best for balance, but dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer taste.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute for all-purpose flour.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

They’re done when the center is set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs—not wet batter.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor, but low-fat can be used with slightly less richness.

Can I add flavor to the cheesecake swirl?

Yes, a bit of lemon zest or almond extract can complement the cream cheese beautifully.

Why is there an extra egg yolk?

The extra yolk adds richness and enhances the fudgy texture of the brownies.

Can I use boxed brownie mix?

Yes, prepare the boxed mix and reserve some batter for swirling, then follow the cheesecake swirl and baking steps.

Should I chill the brownies before slicing?

For cleaner cuts, chill for at least 1 hour after cooling, then slice with a sharp knife.

Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?

Not immediately, but for longer freshness, store them in the fridge—especially because of the cream cheese layer.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Brownies are the perfect marriage of dense chocolate and tangy cheesecake in one decadent dessert. Whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday tray, or just a personal treat, these brownies are always a hit. Simple to make and stunning to serve, they’re sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.