Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Brownies with cream cheese frosting are a decadent treat that combines the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with a luscious, tangy cream cheese topping. This recipe marries the deep chocolate flavor of the brownies with the smooth, creamy sweetness of the frosting, creating a perfect balance that will satisfy any dessert lover. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these brownies are sure to impress. The combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout dessert that is both comforting and elegant. Easy to prepare, they can be whipped up quickly, making them an ideal choice for spontaneous baking sessions or planned gatherings. Plus, the beautiful contrast of the dark chocolate brownies and the pale cream cheese frosting not only tastes fantastic but also looks stunning on any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are several reasons why this Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. First, the taste is simply irresistible; the fudgy brownies are rich and chocolatey, while the cream cheese frosting adds a delightful tang that cuts through the sweetness and creates a well-rounded flavor profile. Second, the preparation of this recipe is incredibly straightforward. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal steps, you’ll have a batch of brownies ready to bake in no time, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Lastly, the appearance of these brownies is nothing short of stunning. The contrast between the deep, dark brownies and the creamy white frosting creates a visually appealing dessert that is perfect for sharing at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. Whether you serve them on a platter or in a decorative box, these brownies are sure to wow your guests.

Ingredients:

To create the ultimate brownies with cream cheese frosting, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (226g) – Providing a rich base, unsalted butter adds moisture and depth to the brownies while allowing you to control the saltiness.
• 2 cups granulated sugar (400g) – This ingredient sweetens the brownies and helps create that coveted fudgy texture.
• 4 large eggs – Eggs contribute to the structure and richness of the brownies, creating a dense, chewy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adding a hint of warmth, vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the brownies.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (125g) – Flour provides the structure needed for the brownies while still allowing them to remain moist and fudgy.
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (100g) – Cocoa powder is the star ingredient that infuses the brownies with deep chocolate flavor.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – This leavening agent helps the brownies rise slightly, contributing to a lighter texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and richness of the chocolate.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened (226g) – The base for the frosting, cream cheese provides a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
• 4 cups powdered sugar (480g) – This sweetener gives the frosting its sweetness and smooth consistency.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (56g) – Additional butter in the frosting adds richness and helps achieve a creamy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Just like in the brownies, vanilla in the frosting enhances the flavor and ties everything together.
• Optional: chocolate chips or nuts – For added texture and flavor, you can mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the brownie batter.

How To Make Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Creating these delicious brownies with cream cheese frosting is a straightforward process that can be broken down into simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the 2 cups of granulated sugar until combined.
3. Add the 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies fudgy.
5. If you’re adding chocolate chips or nuts, fold them into the batter now.
6. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
7. While the brownies are baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy.
8. Gradually add in the 4 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined and fluffy. Stir in the remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
9. Once the brownies are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack. Allow the brownies to cool completely before spreading the cream cheese frosting over the top.
10. Cut the brownies into squares and serve. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some chocolate chips or a dusting of cocoa powder on top of the frosting.

Tips For Variations:

There are numerous ways to customize your brownies with cream cheese frosting, allowing you to experiment with flavors and textures. Here are some variations to consider:

• Nutty Brownies: Incorporate 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for a crunchy texture that complements the fudgy brownies.
• Mint Chocolate: Add 1 teaspoon of mint extract to the brownie batter for a refreshing twist, and consider garnishing the cream cheese frosting with crushed mint leaves or chocolate mint candies.
• Espresso Infusion: To enhance the chocolate flavor, mix in 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder into the batter. This addition will deepen the chocolate notes and provide a subtle coffee flavor.
• Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce over the brownie batter before baking or swirl it into the cream cheese frosting for an indulgent caramel flavor.
• Fruit Toppings: Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, can be added on top of the frosting for a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the brownies.
• Chocolate Frosting: For a more chocolatey experience, consider using a chocolate ganache or chocolate frosting instead of cream cheese frosting. Simply melt chocolate with heavy cream and pour it over the brownies after they cool.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free version of these brownies without sacrificing taste or texture.

Serving Suggestions:

Serving brownies with cream cheese frosting can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Here are some creative serving ideas to elevate your dessert experience:

• Brownie Stack: Layer brownies with cream cheese frosting between each piece for a stunning presentation. Top with additional frosting and sprinkle with chocolate shavings or crushed nuts for an impressive dessert.
• Individual Servings: Cut the brownies into smaller squares and place them in decorative cupcake liners. This makes for easy serving and adds a fun touch to any gathering.
• A la Mode: Serve warm brownies topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream pairs wonderfully with the fudgy brownies and creamy frosting, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures.
• Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Add fresh berries or slices of fruit on top of the frosting for a burst of color and flavor. Fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or even banana slices can complement the sweetness of the brownies.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted brownies for an added touch of indulgence. This simple decoration enhances both the flavor and appearance of your dessert.
• Tea or Coffee Pairing: Serve brownies alongside a cup of your favorite tea or coffee. The rich chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with warm beverages, making for a cozy dessert experience.

FAQ:

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the brownies a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and frost them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out clean, they may be overbaked, resulting in a drier texture.

Can I freeze brownies with cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! Allow the brownies to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?

If you’re looking for alternatives, mascarpone cheese can be used for a similar creamy texture. However, the flavor will differ slightly, so consider adding a bit of lemon juice for tanginess.

Can I use cocoa powder instead of melted chocolate in the brownies?

Yes, the recipe already calls for unsweetened cocoa powder, which contributes to the rich chocolate flavor of the brownies. If you prefer melted chocolate, you can substitute some of the cocoa powder, but adjust the flour accordingly.