Halloween Cream Cheese Brownies are a spooky and delicious treat that combines rich chocolate brownies with a creamy, tangy filling. Perfect for parties or as a festive dessert, these brownies are sure to impress both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these hauntingly delicious brownies:
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon 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 Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: orange or green food coloring (for a festive touch)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Make the Brownie Batter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until well combined. In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until fully incorporated. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring for a fun Halloween look.
- Assemble the Brownies: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Then, dollop the cream cheese mixture on top, spreading it gently to cover the brownie layer. Finally, pour the remaining brownie batter over the cream cheese layer, spreading it to cover.
- Swirl the Layers: Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the brownie and cream cheese layers together for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting into squares. For an extra festive touch, consider dusting with powdered sugar or decorating with Halloween-themed sprinkles.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 16
Calories per Serving: Approximately 200
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 14g
- Protein: 3g
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
How to Serve
- Serve the brownies on a festive platter for Halloween gatherings.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- Consider wrapping individual brownies in Halloween-themed wrappers for a fun party favor.
Additional Tips
- Make It Ahead: Brownies can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
- Flavor Variations: Add chocolate chips or nuts to the brownie batter for extra texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Recipe Variations
- Pumpkin Spice Brownies: Add 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture for a fall twist.
- Peppermint Brownies: Incorporate peppermint extract into the cream cheese layer for a festive flavor.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: Brownies freeze well. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Storage: Keep leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
A1: Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but the texture may be slightly different.
Q2: Can I use boxed brownie mix?
A2: Absolutely! Just prepare the mix according to package instructions and follow the cream cheese layer steps.
Q3: How do I know when the brownies are done?
A3: Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Q4: Can I add toppings?
A4: Yes! Top with chocolate ganache, caramel, or festive sprinkles for added flair.
Q5: Can I use different food coloring?
A5: Yes, feel free to use any colors that suit your Halloween theme!
These Halloween Cream Cheese Brownies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and creamy goodness, perfect for celebrating the spooky season. Enjoy making and sharing these festive treats!
Print
Halloween Cream Cheese Brownies
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
For the Filling:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk (or as needed for consistency)
For the Ganache Topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For Decoration:
- Halloween-themed sprinkles
- Edible eyes (optional)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a bundt pan.
2. Make the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix according to package instructions until smooth.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
3. Prepare the Filling
- In a medium bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, cream cheese, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk as needed for a spreadable consistency.
- Spoon the filling into the center of the batter in the bundt pan, creating a tunnel. Then pour the remaining batter on top.
4. Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Make the Ganache
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Stir until smooth and glossy. Let it cool slightly before using.
6. Glaze the Cake
- Place the cooled cake on a serving platter. Pour the chocolate ganache over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
7. Decorate
- While the ganache is still soft, add Halloween-themed sprinkles and edible eyes for a fun touch.
- If desired, serve with whipped cream on the side.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Protein: 3g
