Fudgy Brownies With Cream Cheese Frosting

These brownies with cream cheese frosting are everything you want in a dessert—rich, fudgy, and packed with chocolatey goodness. The creamy, sweet frosting on top takes them to a new level. The best part? You only need two bowls and a whisk to make them. It’s the kind of dessert you can throw together quickly and still have everyone raving about how amazing they are!

To discover more chocolate delights, be sure to check out my recipes for: Swiss Chocolate Chalet Cake .

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

Look no further if you’re searching for the perfect balance between rich chocolate and creamy frosting. Our brownies with cream cheese frosting elevates the traditional brownie experience, adding a tangy sweetness that complements the deep chocolate flavors. Here’s why this brownies with cream cheese frosting stands out:

• Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create these gourmet brownies without going to the store.
• One-Bowl Convenience: The brownies and the frosting are combined in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
• Perfect Texture: Achieve that ideal fudgy and chewy consistency that makes each bite irresistible.
• Versatile & Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite add-ins or frosting variations to suit any palate.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These brownies with cream cheese frosting are universally loved, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients For brownies with cream cheese frosting

For the Fudgy Brownies

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon espresso powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Wet Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cream cheese icing for brownies

• 4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

How to Make Brownies With Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra paper hanging over the edges for easy brownie removal later. This step ensures even baking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

• Combine unsalted butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
• Melt the mixture in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, or use a double boiler for a gentler approach. Stir until the mixture is velvety and smooth. This creates a rich base for your brownies.

Step 3: Add the Sweetness

Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is well-blended. The granulated sugar provides the ideal sweetness, while the brown sugar contributes a hint of caramel flavor and enhances the fudgy consistency of the brownies.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

• Crack in the eggs, one at a time, and whisk well after each addition.
• Stir in vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a warm, aromatic depth. This step ensures everything binds together seamlessly.

Step5: Blend in the Dry Ingredients

Sift the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, espresso powder, and salt into the bowl. Gently fold them into the wet mixture with a light hand, stopping as soon as the batter comes together. Overmixing can result in dense, chewy brownies, so aim for a smooth, evenly mixed consistency.

Step 6: Achieve Brownie Perfection

Pour the batter into your lined pan, using a spatula to smooth it out evenly across the surface. Bake for 25–30 minutes, keeping a close eye as the timer approaches. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out with a few sticky crumbs but no raw batter. Since every oven is different, start checking around the 25-minute mark to ensure your brownies come out perfectly fudgy and not overbaked.

Step 7:Let Them Cool

Allow the brownies to rest in the pan for 30 minutes, giving them time to firm up. Then, use the parchment paper to gently lift them out and place them on a wire rack. Let them cool completely to room temperature—this step is essential for clean slicing and ensuring the frosting spreads smoothly without melting. Patience here will reward you with perfectly set brownies!

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Beat the Base

• In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until creamy and smooth. This creates a luscious base for your frosting.

Step 2: Add Sweetness and Flavor

• Gradually mix in powdered sugar, followed by vanilla extract.
• Adjust the consistency by adding a tablespoon of milk until it’s soft, spreadable, and fluffy.

Bring It All Together

Step 1: Frost the Brownies

• Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the completely cooled brownies using a spatula or the back of a spoon. For a smooth finish, refrigerate the brownies for 20–30 minutes before slicing.

Step 2: Slice Like a Pro

• Use a sharp, serrated knife to cut the brownies into squares of your preferred size.
• Wipe the knife clean between cuts to keep each slice neat and picture-perfect.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

• Plate these rich, chocolatey brownies topped with their creamy, tangy frosting and watch them disappear. Perfect for dessert, parties, or any indulgence!

These brownies with cream cheese frosting aren’t just a dessert but an experience. Every bite is pure decadence, from their fudgy base to the silky-smooth topping.

Storing

To keep your brownies with cream cheese frosting fresh, moist, and as delicious as the day you made them, follow these simple storage tips:

Storing at Room Temperature

• Without Frosting: If your brownies don’t have frosting, you can store them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container and use parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking.
• With Frosting: Room temperature isn’t ideal for frosted brownies because cream cheese frosting can soften too much. It’s best to refrigerate them instead.

Refrigerating Frosted Brownies

• Fully Frosted Brownies: To keep the cream cheese frosting firm and fresh, refrigerate frosted brownies in an airtight container. This helps them stay intact and prevents the frosting from melting. Properly stored, they’ll stay delicious for up to 7 days.
• Preventing Dryness: To avoid the brownies drying out in the fridge, wrap each individually in plastic before placing them in the container. This keeps them moist and tasty.

With these easy steps, you can enjoy your brownies with cream cheese frosting for days without losing their rich, fudgy texture or creamy frosting!

Helpful Tips & Variations

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your butter and eggs come to room temperature before baking. This ensures a smoother batter and gives your brownies a better texture. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing, affecting the final result.
• Choose the Right Pan: Stick with a metal 8×8-inch pan for even baking. If you’re using a glass pan, remember that you may need to add 5 extra minutes of baking time to get the same level of doneness.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your brownies with cream cheese frosting! Remove them from the oven as soon as the centre is just set. They’ll continue cooking as they cool, giving you that fudgy, moist texture everyone loves.
• Line with Parchment Paper: Before adding the batter, line your pan with parchment paper. This makes it super easy to lift the brownies out in one piece and keeps them from breaking or sticking to the pan.
• Chill Before Slicing: Want picture-perfect brownie squares? Chill your brownies with cream cheese frosting in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before cutting. This firms up the frosting and makes slicing a breeze.
• With these simple tips, your brownies with cream cheese frosting will look and taste like they came straight from a bakery!

Delicious Variations

• 1. Chocolate Glaze Brownies : Replace the cream cheese frosting with a rich chocolate glaze by melting ½ cup (85 g) of semi-sweet chocolate chips with 6 tablespoons (85 g) of butter. Spread the smooth glaze over the cooled brownies for a shiny, decadent finish that is perfect for chocolate lovers.
• 2. Red Velvet Brownies : Transform your brownies into a festive treat by adding 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of red food colouring to the batter. Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a vibrant red hue, ideal for occasions like Valentine’s Day or Christmas.
• 3. Nutty Brownies : Stir ½ cup (75 g) of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) into the batter before baking. The nuts add a satisfying crunch and a hint of earthy flavour, perfectly complementing the creamy frosting or chocolate glaze.
• 4. Cream Cheese Brownie Bites : For easy-to-share treats, cut your brownies into smaller squares or bite-sized pieces. These mini brownies are perfect for parties, gift boxes, or portion control while still delivering the same rich, chocolatey flavour.
• 5. Swirled Brownies : Before baking, add an artistic twist by swirling caramel or peanut butter into the batter. Use a knife to create a marbled effect on top of the brownies, adding layers of flavour and a stunning visual element.
• 6. Spiced Brownies : Mix in cinnamon, cayenne pepper, or chilli powder into the batter for a bold and unique twist. These spices enhance the chocolate flavour with a warm, spicy kick that’s especially comforting during colder months.
• 7. Vegan Brownies : Make your brownies vegan by substituting eggs with flax eggs or applesauce and using plant-based cream cheese for the frosting. Double-check that all other ingredients, like chocolate chips, are vegan-friendly for a dessert that everyone can enjoy!

These variations make it easy to customize your brownies with cream cheese frosting for any occasion, flavour preference, or dietary need while keeping them irresistibly delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my brownies with cream cheese frosting extra fudgy?

Underbake slightly by a few minutes, ensuring a higher chocolate and flour ratio. This will result in a denser, fudgier texture.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! Chocolate ganache or a simple powdered sugar glaze are excellent alternatives that pair beautifully with rich brownies.

Can I substitute eggs in this brownies with cream cheese frosting recipe?

Eggs are essential for the structure, but you can substitute flax eggs or applesauce. The texture may vary slightly.

Can I make these brownies with cream cheese frosting gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What can I add to the frosting for extra flavor?

Consider adding a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to enhance the chocolate flavor or a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolaty twist.

How long do these brownies with cream cheese frosting stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these brownies stay fresh for up to four days. Refrigeration can extend their freshness to a week.