Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are like a warm, chocolate hug that wraps you in sweetness and nostalgia. Picture sinking your teeth into a fudgy brownie topped with smooth cream cheese frosting thatās just sweet enough to make you giggle. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have you dancing like nobodyās watching while secretly hoping for a taste test before anyone else arrives.

Every time I whip up this delightful treat, Iām reminded of family gatherings where the dessert table was the ultimate battleground. My aunt, armed with her secret brownie recipe and an arsenal of colorful sprinkles, always made sure these brownies were the star of the show. Whether itās a birthday party or a cozy movie night, Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are your go-to dessert that promises to bring joy and satisfaction.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These brownies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices.
- The rich chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with creamy frosting, creating a delightful taste explosion.
- They look gorgeous on any dessert platter, thanks to the luscious cream cheese topping and optional sprinkles.
- Enjoy them at family gatherings, movie nights, or as a sweet surprise for friends!
Ingredients for Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This is crucial for that rich chocolate flavor; look for high-quality cocoa for the best results.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key here; this will balance out the chocolatey goodness.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter so you can better control the saltiness of your brownies.
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Eggs: These provide structure; make sure they’re at room temperature for easier mixing.
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All-Purpose Flour: It gives your brownies that chewy texture we all crave.
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Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the flavors beautifully; opt for pure extract if possible.
For the Frosting:
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Cream Cheese: Ensure it’s softened so it blends smoothly into the frosting; donāt skimp on quality here!
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Powdered Sugar: This will sweeten your frosting perfectly without any graininess; sift before use if needed.
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Milk: Just a splash helps to achieve that creamy consistency we love in frosting.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan (9×13 inches works wonderfully) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter slowly. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar until well combined.
Step 3: Mix in Cocoa and Eggs
Stir in the cocoa powder next. Itāll be looking super chocolaty! Then add in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until everything is smooth.
Step 4: Add Flour and Vanilla
Now itās time to add all-purpose flour and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix or youāll end up with tough brownies.
Step 5: Bake
Pour your brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are totally okay).
Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting
While they bake, whip up your cream cheese frosting! In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk until you reach desired consistencyāsmooth and spreadable but not too runny!
Once baked brownies have cooled slightly, spread that luscious cream cheese frosting generously on top. Cut into squares and serve!
Transfer to plates and enjoy these delightful Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting as you bask in your baking glory!
You Must Know
- These brownies with cream cheese frosting are not just a dessert; theyāre a celebration!
- The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the tangy frosting, making them the star of any gathering.
- Plus, theyāre easy to whip up, so you can impress your friends without breaking a sweat.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you mix the brownie batter. Pour it into a greased pan and bake for about 25 minutes. While thatās happening, whip up the creamy frosting to slather on top once your brownies cool down.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these brownies with cream cheese frosting by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or a hint of espresso in the batter. You can also experiment with flavored extracts like almond or peppermint for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds; theyāll taste freshly baked!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect brownies every time, use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing.
- Donāt overbake; check for doneness with a toothpickāit should come out slightly moist.
- Finally, let them cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting for best results.
Sometimes I make these brownies with cream cheese frosting when I need an extra dose of love. My friends rave about them at parties, and one even declared it āthe best thing since sliced breadāāno pressure there!
FAQs :
What are Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Brownies with cream cheese frosting are a delightful dessert that combines rich, fudgy brownies topped with a creamy and tangy frosting made from cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar. This combination adds a unique flavor twist to traditional brownies, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and richness. The cream cheese frosting enhances the overall texture and taste, making each bite an indulgent experience.
How can I store Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
To store brownies with cream cheese frosting, first allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Then, cover the brownies tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies by wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Thaw them in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make brownies with cream cheese frosting gluten-free by substituting regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many gluten-free flour mixes work well in brownie recipes without altering the flavor significantly. Ensure that all other ingredients, like baking powder and chocolate, are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of your dessert.
What can I pair with Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Brownies with cream cheese frosting can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance their flavors. Consider serving them alongside fresh berries for a fruity contrast or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel can elevate this dessert further. Enjoying them with a cup of coffee or tea also complements their rich taste beautifully.
Conclusion for Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting :
In summary, brownies with cream cheese frosting offer a deliciously rich treat that stands out from traditional brownies. The fudgy base combined with the creamy topping creates an irresistible flavor profile. Storing these brownies is simple, ensuring you can enjoy them throughout the week or even freeze them for later use. With easy substitutions available for dietary needs and delectable pairing options, this dessert is versatile and satisfying for any occasion.
Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect blend of rich, fudgy chocolate and a tangy, creamy topping that makes every bite irresistible. This delightful dessert is easy to prepare, making it ideal for any occasionāfrom birthday parties to cozy family gatherings. With their decadent flavor and beautiful presentation, these brownies will surely impress your friends and loved ones. Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat that combines nostalgia and joy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 18 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and stir in the granulated sugar until combined.
- Mix in cocoa powder, then add eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in flour and vanilla extract until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
- For frosting, beat softened cream cheese until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar and milk until creamy.
- Once the brownies have cooled slightly, spread the frosting evenly on top before cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: - Customize brownies by adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for added texture. - Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or peppermint for a unique twist.