Cream Cheese Filled Brownies Recipe
These Cream Cheese Filled Brownies offer a delightful twist on a traditional brownie recipe. The creamy, smooth ribbon of cream cheese running through the rich, fudgy brownie creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy filling adds a slight tanginess that complements the sweetness of the brownies, making them irresistible for both kids and adults alike. Perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or a sweet treat for any occasion, this dessert is sure to be a hit.
Recipe Details:
- Category: Bar Cookie
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 Brownies
- Calories: 212.1 per serving
- Servings: 16
- Difficulty: Easy
- Suitable for: Beginner cooks, Toddler-friendly, Kid-friendly
Ingredients:
For the Brownie Layer:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter (unsalted) | 1/3 cup |
| Butter (unsalted) | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Self-rising flour | 3/4 cup |
| Pecans (chopped) | 3/4 cup |
| Milk | 1/3 cup |
| Cocoa powder | 3 tbsp |
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 7 oz |
| Sugar | 5 tsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
For the Frosting:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter (unsalted) | 2 tbsp |
| Milk | 2 tbsp |
| Confectioner’s sugar | 1 cup |
| Cocoa powder | 1 tbsp |
| Pecan halves | For garnish |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 212.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 54.2 mg |
| Sodium | 158.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 23.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 17.2 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with a light coating of butter or non-stick spray, and then line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
-
-
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese, vanilla extract, and 5 teaspoons of sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy, and then set the bowl aside.
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Prepare the Brownie Mixture: In another bowl, beat the eggs and the remaining sugar until light and fluffy, which will create a nice base for the brownie mixture. Meanwhile, melt the butter and cocoa in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until the butter has completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Once melted, stir this cocoa-butter mixture into the egg-sugar mixture, mixing well.
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Add the Dry Ingredients: Next, fold the self-rising flour and chopped pecans into the brownie mixture, ensuring that everything is fully incorporated.
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Assemble the Brownies: Pour half of the brownie mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to level the mixture evenly. Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the brownie base, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Top it with the remaining brownie mixture, spreading it evenly over the cream cheese layer.
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Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs attached. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Make the Frosting: While the brownies are cooling, prepare the frosting by melting the butter and milk in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the confectioner’s sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until smooth. Allow the frosting to cool slightly before spreading it over the cooled brownies.
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Decorate and Serve: Once the frosting has been spread, decorate the brownies with pecan halves for an added touch of elegance. Let the brownies set for a few minutes, then slice them into 16 even squares. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Pecan Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of pecans or don’t have them on hand, you can substitute with other nuts like walnuts or almonds.
- Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. You can also refrigerate them for a firmer texture.
- Serving Suggestion: These brownies are wonderful when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
These Cream Cheese Filled Brownies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of rich chocolate brownie and smooth, tangy cream cheese creates a dessert that’s decadent yet approachable. With simple ingredients and easy steps, even beginner cooks can master this delicious treat. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dessert night, a holiday gathering, or a special occasion, these brownies are guaranteed to impress.
