If you are looking for the perfect dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests, look no further. This Cream Cheese Swirl Brownie combines the best of both worlds: a rich, fudgy chocolate base and a velvety, creamy cheesecake layer. Not only does it look stunning with its beautiful marbled pattern and a delicate dusting of powdered sugar, but it is also incredibly easy to make. Whether you are baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself on a cozy weekend, this recipe is guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 35-40 minutes
Yields: 12-16 squares
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Brownie Base
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened at room temperature
1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8×8 inch (or 9×9 inch) baking pan, or line it with parchment paper leaving an overhang for easy removal. - Make the Chocolate Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar.
Add the 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the mixture becomes slightly pale and smooth.
Sift in the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
Fold gently with a spatula just until combined. Do not overmix, or the brownie will lose its fudgy texture.
Spread about 80% of this chocolate batter evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Save the remaining 20% for later. - Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1/3 cup of sugar together using an electric mixer until completely smooth and creamy.
Add the egg and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until just incorporated. - Create the Marble Effect
Pour the cream cheese mixture entirely over the chocolate layer in the pan.
Drop random spoonfuls of the reserved chocolate batter on top of the cream cheese layer.
Take a butter knife or a skewer and gently drag it through the layers in a figure-eight motion to create the beautiful dollops and swirls seen in the picture. - Bake and Cool
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a very slight, soft jiggle.
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan at room temperature. For the cleanest slices, chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour before cutting.
Just before serving, dust generously with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve.
