Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting offer a delightful treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate and creamy sweetness. These brownies are moist, fudgy, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that takes them to the next level. Whether for a casual get-together, a birthday celebration, or just a sweet craving, this recipe delivers a dessert that impresses every time.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 350
- Protein: 4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 48 grams
- Fat: 16 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 35 grams
- Sodium: 180 mg
Why Make This Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Brownies hold a special place in many of our hearts – they represent comfort and joy. Adding cream cheese frosting to brownies elevates the dessert to a bakery-quality experience right at home. The frosty layer provides a tangy contrast to the sweet, chocolatey brownie base, making each bite an indulgent treat. Perfectly suited for any occasion, these brownies will surely please both kids and adults alike, transforming a simple dessert into a memorable delight.
How to Make Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This ensures an easy release of the brownies after baking and helps them maintain their soft texture.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter. Mix in 2 cups of granulated sugar until well combined. Then, add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the brownie flavor.
Step 3: Cooking
In another bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 4: Finishing
While the brownies are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Once the brownies have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top. Cut into squares and serve.
How to Serve Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
These brownies taste best when served fresh. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience. They also make a delightful addition to dessert platters for parties or family gatherings.
How to Store Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors meld beautifully as they sit, making them even more delicious the next day. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Expert Tips for Perfect Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- For an ultra-fudgy texture, take care not to overbake the brownies. They should appear slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out.
- If you’re a fan of nuts, add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for an added crunch.
- You can substitute the vanilla extract in the frosting with almond extract for a unique flavor twist.
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing for a silky, smooth frosting.
Delicious Variations
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Before baking the brownie batter, drop spoonfuls of peanut butter on top and swirl it in with a knife for a deliciously nutty addition.
- Mint Flavor: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the brownie batter and frosting for a refreshing minty twist.
- Chocolate Ganache Topping: For a richer dessert, drizzle a simple chocolate ganache over the cream cheese frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use cocoa powder instead of chocolate squares?
Yes, unsweetened cocoa powder works perfectly for this recipe and is what gives the brownies their rich chocolate flavor. -
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I want a lighter frosting?
Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative to cream cheese; just expect a slightly different flavor and texture. -
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the brownies a day in advance and frost them right before serving for the freshest taste. -
Why are my brownies dry?
Dry brownies often result from overbaking. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time and conduct the toothpick test. -
Can I flavor the brownies?
Yes! You can add different extracts like almond or coffee to the batter for additional layers of flavor.
Conclusion
These Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love. They’re easy enough to whip up for a quick treat but impressive enough for special occasions. Whether shared with family or enjoyed on your own, this recipe is sure to satisfy any sweet craving. So grab your apron and give this recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously rich chocolate brownies topped with a creamy, tangy frosting that elevates this classic treat to new heights.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in a bowl. Mix in 2 cups of granulated sugar until well combined. Add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While the brownies are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Once the brownies have cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
For an ultra-fudgy texture, do not overbake the brownies. Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
