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Fudgy Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies

A close-up of a fudgy cream cheese brownies square showing the dark chocolate base and white cream cheese swirl.

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Create rich, fudgy brownies with a tangy, creamy cream cheese swirl. This recipe balances deep chocolate flavor with a smooth cheesecake layer for a decadent dessert bar.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar (for cream cheese mix)
  • 1 large egg (for cream cheese mix)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream cheese mix)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 2 cups of sugar until combined.
  3. Beat in the 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Fold in the chocolate chips. Spread about two-thirds of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan.
  6. Prepare the cream cheese layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, ¼ cup sugar, 1 egg, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  7. Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter in the pan.
  8. Pour the remaining one-third of the brownie batter over the cream cheese layer in small spoonfuls.
  9. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the two batters together to create a marbled pattern. Do not over-swirl.
  10. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out with moist crumbs attached. The center should still look slightly soft.
  11. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares.

Notes

  • For the fudgiest texture, avoid overbaking. The center should set but remain moist.
  • If you prefer a thicker brownie, use an 8×8 inch pan and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.
  • Allow the cream cheese to soften fully to prevent lumps in the swirl mixture.

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