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Halloween Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies

Halloween Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies for a Spooktacular Treat

These Halloween Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies combine rich chocolate with a tangy cream cheese swirl for a delightful treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 16 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Brownie Base
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Adds richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar Provides sweetness; can substitute with brown sugar for deeper flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Cocoa Powder (Dark) Main source of chocolate flavor; use Dutch-processed cocoa for smoother taste.
  • 2 large Eggs Binds ingredients; can use flax eggs for a vegan version.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances chocolate flavor; use pure vanilla for best taste.
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour Balances structure; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness; essential for flavor balance.
  • 1 cup Chocolate Chips or Chunks (Optional) Adds bursts of melted chocolate; use dark or milk chocolate based on preference.
Cream Cheese Swirl
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Room Temperature) Creates a creamy contrast; ensure well-blended for smooth mix.
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens the cream cheese mixture; can reduce for less sweetness.
  • 1 large Egg Yolk Helps the swirl set during baking; do not replace with whole egg.
  • 1 drop Orange Food Coloring Provides festive hue; gel food coloring recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Optional) Enhances cream cheese flavor; enriches richness.

Equipment

  • 8x8-inch baking pan
  • Medium saucepan
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • Knife
  • Parchment Paper
  • wire rack

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat, then stir in cocoa powder until smooth. Remove from heat and ad granulated sugar, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
  3. Pour in vanilla extract and gently fold in all-purpose flour and salt until just combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Mix in sugar, egg yolk, and optional vanilla extract until well combined, then add orange food coloring until the desired hue is achieved.
  5. Spread the brownie batter into the prepared pan and dollop the cream cheese mixture on top, swirling gently with a knife.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
  7. Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 5IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Allow brownies to cool completely before slicing for clean cuts. Perfect for Halloween gatherings or spooky-themed parties.

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