Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, cream together the melted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 3: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie layer.
- Step 4: Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cream cheese layer and spread to create an even top. Drizzle the melted semi-sweet chocolate over the top.
- Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Store these decadent bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer enjoyment.
- For a warm, gooey experience, microwave individual bars for 10-15 seconds; avoid over-microwaving to prevent melting the chocolate.
- Serve these bars slightly chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.
- To prevent the cream cheese layer from cracking, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened and beat it until completely smooth before spreading.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American