Hershey’s Cream Cheese Brownies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the rich, dense texture of traditional brownies with a smooth cream cheese layer that adds a tangy flavor, making each bite a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. It’s a delightful dessert that is sure to impress guests or satisfy your chocolate cravings. With easy-to-follow steps, you can make these brownies quickly and have a dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 box of Hershey’s Cocoa (or 1/2 cup Hershey’s Cocoa Powder)

• 1/2 cup butter, melted

• 2 eggs

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 1/4 cup sugar (for the cream cheese layer)

• 1 egg (for the cream cheese layer)

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the cream cheese layer)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract.

3. In a separate bowl, mix the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until fully combined.

4. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.

5. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

6. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top of the brownie batter. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cream cheese mixture into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.

7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay).

8. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Once fully cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 16 squares

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 30-35 minutes

• Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Add-ins: For a bit of crunch, consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even swirls of peanut butter to the brownie batter.

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.

• Chocolate Lovers: For extra chocolatey goodness, add a few tablespoons of melted chocolate to the brownie batter.

• Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of mint extract to the cream cheese mixture for a refreshing twist.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.

• Freezing: If you want to store them for a longer period, freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in a freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual servings for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different kind of cocoa powder for these brownies?

Yes, you can use any unsweetened cocoa powder you prefer. However, Hershey’s cocoa powder provides a rich, chocolatey flavor that complements the cream cheese layer perfectly.

2. What if I don’t have a 9×9-inch pan?

If you don’t have a 9×9-inch pan, you can use an 8×8-inch pan, but the brownies might be slightly thicker. Alternatively, a 9×13-inch pan will yield thinner brownies.

3. Can I make these brownies without the cream cheese layer?

Yes, you can make regular chocolate brownies without the cream cheese layer. Just bake the batter as directed.

4. How can I tell when the brownies are done?

The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick is wet with batter, the brownies need a little more time.

5. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, these brownies can be made a day or two ahead of time. They often taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld together.

6. Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor of the cream cheese layer. Full-fat cream cheese provides the best creamy consistency.

7. How do I prevent the cream cheese from sinking to the bottom of the brownies?

To prevent the cream cheese from sinking, make sure the brownie batter is thick enough before adding the cream cheese mixture. Also, try spooning the cream cheese mixture on top and swirling it gently.

8. Can I add nuts to the brownies?

Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans will provide a nice crunch and contrast to the creamy texture.

9. How should I store leftover brownies?

Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

10. Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

Conclusion

Hershey’s Cream Cheese Brownies are an indulgent dessert that combines the best of chocolate and cream cheese. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a treat, or sharing them with friends and family, they’re sure to be a hit. With their rich flavor and easy preparation, these brownies are bound to become a favorite in your dessert rotation!