Ingredients
Scale
- For the Brownie Base:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. For the best results, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This allows you to lift the brownies out easily once they have cooled. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1 cup of sugar. Stir in the 2 eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mixing the Brownie Batter: Sift the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet ingredients. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture using a spatula. Stop mixing as soon as no flour streaks remain to keep the texture fudgy. Set aside about 1/2 cup of this brownie batter. Spread the remaining batter evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
- Creating the Cream Cheese Filling: In a separate small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar, the egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to beat the mixture until it is completely smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps in the cream cheese, as this will affect the appearance of the swirl. Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter in the pan.
- Marbling and Baking: Take the 1/2 cup of reserved brownie batter and drop small spoonfuls on top of the cream cheese layer. Use a butter knife or a skewer to gently swirl the two batters together, creating a marble pattern. Be careful not to over-swirl, or the colors will muddy together. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing.
- Cook Time: 50 minutes