Ultimate Fudgy Chocolate Brownies with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
Prepare for pure indulgence with these incredible chocolate brownies, elevated to perfection with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. This recipe isn’t just good; it’s the *best* way to experience perfectly fudgy, deeply chocolatey brownies. If you’re a fan of the classic cheesecake brownie, get ready, because these cream cheese frosting brownies are about to become your new obsession.
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And if these brownies with their heavenly cream cheese topping capture your heart, you’ll also adore my S’mores Brownies for a campfire-inspired treat, my Chocolate Beignets for a taste of New Orleans, and my sophisticated Chocolate Olive Oil Cake!
Indulge in the Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting Brownies
This recipe truly offers the best of both dessert worlds, bringing together the deep, rich intensity of chocolate brownies with the light, tangy sweetness of cream cheese frosting. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony: the dense, fudgy chewiness of the brownie base gives way to a smooth, creamy topping that melts in your mouth. They’re surprisingly easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for both seasoned bakers and beginners looking for an impressive yet straightforward dessert. The secret lies in the luscious cream cheese frosting – a simple addition that transforms an already delicious treat into something truly extraordinary.
These brownies are built upon the foundation of my popular Triple Chocolate Brownies, a reliable go-to recipe designed to satisfy any intense chocolate craving. By then crowning them with the divine cream cheese frosting adapted from my Chocolate Spice Cake, we elevate them from great to absolutely unforgettable. It’s this simple pairing that adds a layer of sophisticated creaminess and a delightful tangy counterpoint to the rich chocolate.
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Are Brownies Better With or Without Frosting? The Ultimate Debate!
Ah, the age-old question: do brownies truly need frosting? While I’m a huge admirer of the classic fudgy brownie with its signature crackly top, like those found in my Dairy Free Brownies, there are times when a little something extra takes a dessert from great to utterly sublime. And when that “something extra” is rich, tangy cream cheese frosting, the answer becomes a resounding YES!
Adding a generous layer of cream cheese frosting to your homemade brownies isn’t just an enhancement; it’s a transformation. It introduces a new dimension of texture and flavor that complements the deep chocolate beautifully. The creamy, cool frosting cuts through the richness of the brownie, creating a balanced and incredibly satisfying bite. It turns a simple treat into a luxurious experience, making these chocolate brownies with cream cheese frosting a truly irresistible, elevated classic.
Crafting the Best Cream Cheese Icing for Brownies
When I first developed this particular cream cheese frosting for my Chocolate Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe, I knew instantly it would be the perfect match for brownies. It’s quick, incredibly easy to make, and delivers an unmatched flavor profile that beautifully complements a rich chocolate base. The key components? Quality cream cheese, the perfect balance of salted butter, and a generous splash of pure vanilla extract.
The salted butter in this recipe is crucial; it subtly enhances the overall flavor without making the frosting overtly salty. If you only have unsalted butter on hand, simply add a tiny pinch of salt (about ¼ teaspoon) to achieve that delightful balance. Pure vanilla extract, often overlooked, adds a depth and warmth that rounds out the tangy cream cheese and rich butter. The result is a smooth, pipeable frosting that’s not too sweet, offering just the right amount of tanginess to perfectly cut through the richness of the brownies.
If you’re as devoted to cream cheese frosting as I am, you’ll also want to explore my Confetti Cheesecake Bar Recipe for a fun twist, or my rich Spiced Banana Cake with Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting for another decadent delight!
Essential Ingredients for Your Cream Cheese Frosted Brownies
These brownies with their exquisite cream cheese topping are surprisingly simple to make, requiring a selection of readily available ingredients. Before you dive into baking, gather all your ingredients and ensure they’re at room temperature for the best results. You’ll find the full measurements and detailed instructions in the recipe card below, but here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component is vital:
For the Fudgy Chocolate Brownies:
- Melted Unsalted Butter: This is key for creating that signature fudgy texture. Ensure your butter is melted but cooled slightly before adding it to the batter, preventing the eggs from cooking prematurely. If you only have salted butter, simply reduce the added salt in the recipe to ½ teaspoon.
- Large Eggs: Always use room temperature eggs. They incorporate more evenly into the batter, resulting in a smoother consistency and a better rise.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Don’t skimp on quality! A high-quality pure vanilla extract profoundly enhances the chocolate flavor. Even better, consider making your own at home with my easy 2-ingredient vanilla extract recipe.
- Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: This dynamic duo provides both sweetness and that desirable chewy texture that distinguishes a truly great brownie. Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle caramel note.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Essential for that deep, rich chocolatey flavor and contributing to the fudgy density.
- All-Purpose Flour: Accuracy matters here! Measure your flour by weight using a kitchen scale or employ the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense brownies.
- Espresso Powder: The secret weapon! Just a touch of espresso powder doesn’t make your brownies taste like coffee; it simply intensifies and deepens the chocolate flavor. If unavailable, a tablespoon of strong brewed coffee works as a good substitute.
- Salt: A crucial ingredient that balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors, making the chocolate truly pop.
- Chocolate Chips: I prefer dark chocolate chips for an intense chocolate experience, but semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips are equally delightful, adding pockets of molten chocolate throughout these rich brownies.
And for the Star of the Show: The Amazing Cream Cheese Frosting!
- Full-Fat Cream Cheese: This is the foundation of your creamy, tangy frosting. Ensure your cream cheese is perfectly softened to room temperature – not mushy or melted, but soft enough to yield easily when pressed. This ensures a smooth, lump-free frosting.
- Salted Butter: Room temperature salted butter provides richness and that subtle salty balance. If using unsalted butter, simply add ¼ teaspoon of salt to the frosting mixture.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Enhances the creaminess and adds an aromatic warmth that complements the tanginess of the cream cheese beautifully.
- Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): Sifted powdered sugar is essential for achieving the perfect smooth, velvety texture and desired sweetness in your cream cheese frosting.
See the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Essential Equipment for Brownie Success
You’ll be delighted to know that this recipe for cream cheese frosted brownies doesn’t require any fancy gadgets. Just a few basic kitchen tools will set you up for success!
- A 9×9 baking pan is ideal for creating thick, fudgy brownies.
- You’ll need a spacious mixing bowl and a sturdy whisk to combine your brownie batter.
- For precise ingredient measurement, especially flour, I highly recommend using a kitchen scale. This ensures consistent results every time.
- For your silky smooth cream cheese frosting, a hand mixer or a stand mixer will make quick work of whipping it to perfection.
- A fine-mesh sieve is excellent for sifting powdered sugar, preventing lumps and ensuring a truly smooth frosting.
Step-by-Step Baking Guide: From Fudgy Brownie to Frosted Perfection
Creating these heavenly brownies is a straightforward process, and the detailed instructions with precise measurements, along with a helpful video, can be found in the recipe card below. But for a quick overview of the magic about to happen in your kitchen, here’s a simplified look at how you’ll bring these delicious cream cheese brownies to life!
Combine your granulated and brown sugars with slightly cooled melted butter in a large mixing bowl, whisking until the mixture is smooth and well-incorporated.
Introduce the room temperature eggs to the sugar-butter mixture, whisking vigorously until the batter becomes smooth, light, and slightly fluffy.
Stir in the pure vanilla extract, ensuring it is fully incorporated into the wet ingredients for a rich, aromatic base.
Gently sift your dry ingredients (cocoa powder, flour, espresso powder, and salt) over the wet mixture. Fold them in carefully with a rubber spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Fold in your favorite chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the rich brownie batter for extra pockets of chocolatey goodness.
Pour the luscious brownie batter into your prepared 9×9 inch baking pan and spread it evenly to the edges. Bake until the center is just set for fudgy results.
Once your brownies have completely cooled, combine the softened cream cheese, salted butter, vanilla extract, and sifted powdered sugar in a large bowl. Beat until fluffy and smooth.
Generously spread the dreamy cream cheese frosting over the completely cooled brownies. Slice them into perfect bars and prepare to serve your irresistible creation!
Hint: This step is crucial for achieving perfect results! Always ensure your decadent brownies are completely cooled before applying the cream cheese frosting. Adding frosting to warm brownies will cause it to melt, resulting in a messy and unappetizing dessert. Patience is key here!
Elevate Your Boxed Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Short on time but still craving that incredible flavor combination? I completely understand! This versatile cream cheese icing for brownies works perfectly with a simple box brownie mix. It’s an excellent shortcut that doesn’t compromise on taste.
To use a box mix, simply prepare the brownies according to the package directions. While they bake and cool, whip up our delicious cream cheese frosting recipe. Once your brownies are completely cool (remember that crucial hint!), spread the frosting evenly over the top. It’s an incredibly easy way to transform everyday boxed brownies into a bakery-worthy treat, perfect for unexpected guests or a quick weeknight dessert.
Rich Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting for Brownies Variation
For the ultimate chocolate lover, why not take your cream cheese frosting to the next level of chocolatey goodness? You can easily adapt this frosting recipe to create a decadent chocolate cream cheese frosting for your brownies. The process is simple and yields an even more intense chocolate experience!
To make this variation, just replace ½ cup of the powdered sugar in the frosting recipe with an equal amount of unsweetened cocoa powder. This small adjustment introduces a deeper chocolate flavor, making the frosting rich and velvety, perfectly complementing the fudgy brownies beneath. It’s a delightful twist that’s sure to impress any chocoholic!
Storage Tips for Your Cream Cheese Frosted Brownies
To maintain the freshness and safety of these delectable cream cheese frosted brownies, proper storage is essential. Due to the dairy in the cream cheese frosting, they cannot be stored at room temperature for extended periods.
- Refrigeration: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This ensures the cream cheese frosting remains fresh and safe to eat. Remember, cream cheese should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours.
- Freezing: These fudgy chocolate brownies with cream cheese topping freeze wonderfully! To freeze, place the cooled, frosted brownies in an airtight container, ensuring they are well-wrapped with plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Brownies
Yes, absolutely! Since cream cheese is a dairy product, it requires refrigeration to stay fresh and safe. Cream cheese should never be left at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent spoilage. If you’re not planning to serve your brownies immediately, be sure to store them in an airtight container in the fridge. For the best taste and texture, allow these rich chocolate brownies to come back up to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Even if you’re using a box mix, there are plenty of ways to elevate your brownies and make them taste more like homemade! Beyond adding this delightful sweet cream cheese frosting, try these simple enhancements:
- Extra Flavor Boost: Stir in a teaspoon or two of pure vanilla extract for a deeper, more rounded flavor.
- Intensify Chocolate: Add a tablespoon or two of extra unsweetened cocoa powder to the mix for an even richer chocolatey punch. A pinch of espresso powder (or a tablespoon of strong brewed coffee) can also dramatically enhance the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
- Moisture and Richness: Replace the water called for in the box mix with milk, buttermilk, or even cold brewed coffee. Adding an extra egg yolk can also contribute to a fudgier texture.
- Texture & Inclusions: Fold in extra chocolate chips (dark, milk, or white!), chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans), or even a swirl of caramel or peanut butter before baking.
And of course, when all else fails, a generous layer of homemade cream cheese frosting is the perfect finishing touch!
If you find yourself with extra cream cheese frosting after beautifying these cream cheese frosted brownies, don’t let it go to waste! It’s incredibly versatile and delicious. Here are some ideas:
- Cake & Cupcake Topping: Use it as a delightful topping for my Apple Mug Cake or my charming Mini Vanilla Cake!
- Dessert Pops: It’s perfect for binding and frosting Valentine’s Day Cake Pops.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve it as a luscious dip for fresh fruit, soft pretzels, graham crackers, or even ginger snaps.
- Sweet Sandwich Spread: Spread it on toast or bagels for a delightful breakfast treat.
The possibilities are endless for this delightful extra frosting!
This is a critical step for perfect frosted brownies! Your brownies must be completely and utterly cooled before you even think about applying the frosting. If there’s any residual warmth, your beautiful cream cheese frosting will melt, slide off, and create a soupy mess. I recommend letting your brownies cool for at least a few hours on a wire rack. For absolute certainty, you can even chill them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour after they’ve reached room temperature. Patience here truly pays off!
Top Tip for Serving
For the absolute best flavor and texture, these homemade brownies taste phenomenal at room temperature. If you’ve stored them in the refrigerator, remember to take your pan of brownies out at least a half-hour before you plan to serve them. This allows the brownie to soften and the cream cheese frosting to achieve its ideal creamy consistency.
Related Sweet Treats You’ll Love
Looking for other delightful recipes that hit just the right sweet spot, much like these cream cheese frosted brownies? Explore these favorites:
- Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars
- Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
- Coffee Cookies
- Protein Mug Cake
Perfect Pairings to Complement Your Brownies
While these rich brownies with cream cheese frosting are a star on their own, they also make a fantastic dessert to follow a delicious meal. Here are some of my favorite dishes that pair wonderfully with this recipe, balancing savory and sweet perfectly:
- New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
- Puff Pastry Pizza
- Air Fryer Pizza Rolls
- Ricotta Lemon Pasta
If you try this delightful recipe, I would be absolutely thrilled if you could leave a star review rating and a comment below! Your feedback is incredibly valuable and helps me continue sharing delicious recipes. And don’t forget to share your amazing creations with me by tagging @chenee_today on Instagram!
📖 Recipe
Chocolate Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
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Equipment you may need
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9×9 baking pan
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whisk
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parchment paper
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mixing bowls
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measuring cups and spoons
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rubber spatula
Ingredients
- 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter – melted and slightly cooled
- 3 large eggs – room temperature
- 2 teaspoon (10 ml) pure vanilla extract
- ⅔ cup (134 g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (213 g) brown sugar – packed
- ¾ cup (75 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour – measured by weight with a kitchen scale or with the spoon-and-level method
- ½ teaspoon (1 g) espresso powder – optional; alternatively, you can add a tablespoon of strong coffee
- 1 teaspoon (3 g) salt
- 1 cup (243 g) chocolate chips
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz (227 g) full-fat cream cheese – room temperature
- ½ cup (114 g) salted butter – 1 stick; room temperature
- 1½ teaspoon (7 ml) pure vanilla extract
- 3-4 cups (360 g) powdered sugar – sifted
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9″ (23×23 cm) baking pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.1 cup unsalted butter, ⅔ cup granulated sugar, 1 cup brown sugar
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Add in the room temperature eggs and pure vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth, light, and slightly fluffy – this helps create that desirable crackly top.3 large eggs, 2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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Sift the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, espresso powder (if using), and salt directly into the wet ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough brownies.¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon espresso powder, 1 teaspoon salt
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Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.1 cup chocolate chips
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Pour the brownie batter into your prepared 9×9 inch pan and smooth the top evenly with your spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter). For extra gooey brownies, check at 25 minutes and remove when the center is just barely set.
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Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 20 minutes before carefully lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature. This step is crucial before frosting!
Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting
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In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened full-fat cream cheese and softened salted butter together until completely smooth and creamy, with no lumps. Stir in the pure vanilla extract until well combined.8 oz full-fat cream cheese, ½ cup salted butter, 1½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, starting with 3 cups, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Once combined, increase the mixer speed to high and beat for an additional 2 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and perfectly smooth. Add up to 4 cups of powdered sugar total if you prefer a stiffer consistency.3-4 cups powdered sugar
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Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the creamy, dreamy cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares or bars, and serve these irresistible brownies!
Video
Notes
- Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting for Brownies – for a richer chocolate flavor, replace ½ cup of the powdered sugar in the frosting with an equal amount of unsweetened cocoa powder!
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer
