Brownies with cream cheese frosting

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If you're a fan of fudgy brownies with a decadent twist, these chocolate brownies with cream cheese frosting are the perfect treat! The chewy brownies paired with a creamy, tangy frosting make a dessert that’s hard to resist. Whether you're preparing them for a special occasion like Valentine's Day, or simply satisfying your chocolate cravings, this recipe will become your go-to for delicious brownies. Plus, it's made with simple ingredients you likely have on hand!

These brownies are rich and chocolatey, and have the perfect balance of sweetness with the creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. The fudgy texture makes them extra indulgent, and the chocolate flavor is enhanced with every bite. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or satisfying your chocolate cravings, these brownies will surely impress. Plus, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have at home!

If you love fudgy brownies, you'll want to try my other recipes like these Foolproof Crinkly Fudgy Brownies and my delicious Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe (Cheesecake Brownies). Both are packed with rich chocolate flavor and that irresistible fudgy texture you crave.

Ingredients

Unsalted butter: Use melted butter for a rich flavor and soft, moist brownies. The melted butter helps create that chewy, fudgy texture we love in these brownies.

Sugar: A mix of white sugar and brown sugar gives the brownies a slightly chewy finish while keeping them sweet and balanced.

Unsweetened cocoa powder: Go for either Dutch-processed cocoa powder or regular. The cocoa powder is the star of the show, giving the brownies a deep chocolate flavor.

All Purpose flour: Regular all-purpose flour works best. If you prefer cakey brownies, you can add a little baking powder, but for the perfect fudgy brownies, leave it out.

Vanilla extract: Just a splash brings out the rich chocolate flavor and adds a touch of warmth.

Eggs: They help bind everything together and create structure, essential for that fudgy texture.

Chocolate chips: Fold these into the brownie batter for extra flavor.

FOR CREAM CHEESE FROSTING

Cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened and at room temperature for easy mixing.

Unsalted butter: Use softened butter to blend smoothly with the cream cheese, creating a rich, velvety texture.

Powdered sugar: This sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth, light texture. You can adjust the amount depending on how sweet you want your sweet cream cheese frosting to be.

How to make brownies with cream cheese frosting

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8 baking pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.

Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.

Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder, flour, baking powder (optional), and salt. Stir until the batter is smooth and fully incorporated.

Fold in the chocolate chips or melted chocolate to add even more chocolate flavor.

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check with a toothpick inserted into the center— it should come out with moist crumbs for fudgy brownies.

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.

For the cream cheese frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter using an electric mixer or hand mixer until smooth and creamy.

Add the vanilla extract and gradually mix in the powdered sugar until you get a smooth, creamy consistency.

Once the brownies are cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice into squares and serve!

Helpful tips

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the cream cheese and butter, to make mixing easier and smoother.
If you want clean slices when cutting the brownies, chill them in the fridge for a bit after frosting and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
For extra fudgy brownies, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour. Stir just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
To get that perfect fudgy texture, don’t overbake! Check for moist crumbs on the toothpick rather than waiting for it to come out completely clean.
If you like a richer chocolate flavor, add a handful of dark chocolate chips to the batter or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top.

Faqs

Q: What’s the best way to ensure fudgy brownies every time?

A: For best results, always use room temperature ingredients, especially for the wet ingredients. Make sure to keep the baking time between 20-25 minutes and check the sides of the pan. For that gooey brownie texture, avoid overbaking and look for moist crumbs rather than a clean toothpick.

Q: Can I make red velvet brownies with this recipe?

A: Yes! Simply add a bit of red food coloring to the batter for that bright red color and transform these into red velvet brownies. You can even use a cream cheese mixture or cream cheese icing to mimic a red velvet cake flavor.

Q: How do I store leftover brownies to keep them fresh?

A: To keep your leftover brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap. This will help maintain their fudgy texture and prevent them from drying out.

Q: What’s the best way to make the frosting smooth?

A: Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed is the best way to mix the cream cheese mixture or any frosting. This ensures a smooth, creamy consistency without overworking the ingredients. Don’t forget to measure the frosting ingredients accurately using a kitchen scale or measuring cup.

Q: Can I use a box mix for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use a box mix if you're in a hurry! Just follow the instructions on the box and finish with the cream cheese frosting for a quick yet decadent dessert.

Q: How can I make my brownies look fancy for a special occasion?

A: For fancy brownies, you can top them with chocolate cream cheese frosting or drizzle some melted chocolate on top. Add your favorite sprinkles on the cream cheese layer for the perfect finishing touches.