Cream cheese brownies

 Cream cheese brownies are a decadent treat that combines the rich fudginess of brownies with a layer of creamy cheesecake. They offer a delightful textural and flavor contrast, making them a popular choice for chocolate and cheesecake lovers alike.

Here's a recipe to bake these delicious cream cheese brownies:

Ingredients:

For the Brownie Layer:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

• Chocolate chips
• Chopped nuts
• Powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easier removal.

2. Brownie Layer: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

3. Dry Ingredients for Brownie Layer: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients (Brownie): Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix!

5. Pour Brownie Batter: Pour about two-thirds of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly using a spatula.

6. Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl using an electric mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

7. Spread Cream Cheese Layer: Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. You can use a spoon or spatula to gently swirl the cream cheese layer into the brownie batter for a marbled effect (optional).

8. Top with Remaining Brownie Batter: Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cream cheese layer. Spread it evenly as much as possible.

9. Optional Toppings: Sprinkle chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a pinch of sea salt on top of the batter before baking for an extra flavor and texture twist.

10. Baking Time: Bake the brownies for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not completely clean). The cream cheese layer in the center might still be slightly soft, but it should be set.

11. Cool and Cut: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into squares. Cooling allows the brownies to set properly.

Tips:

• Use high-quality cocoa powder for the richest chocolate flavor in the brownie layer.
• Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easier creaming in its designated layer.
• If the cream cheese layer seems too thick while spreading, you can add a tablespoon of milk and mix it in until it reaches a pourable consistency.
• Don't overbake the brownies. They should be fudgy and moist in the center.
• These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Enjoy the delicious combination of fudgy brownies and creamy cheesecake in this delightful treat!