Indulge in the perfect blend of tart lemon and creamy cheese with these Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies. This dessert combines the tanginess of lemon with the richness of cream cheese, creating a delightful treat that’s both refreshing and decadent. The zesty lemon flavor pairs beautifully with the smooth, velvety cream cheese, offering a unique twist on traditional brownies. With a soft, chewy texture and a burst of citrus in every bite, these brownies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, looking for a light dessert after a hearty meal, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies are sure to impress your friends and family.
The simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze to prepare, ensuring you can whip up a delicious treat in no time. The base layer is a luscious lemon brownie that’s perfectly balanced with the right amount of sweetness and tang. Swirled on top is a rich, creamy cheese mixture that bakes up beautifully, creating an elegant marbled effect. As the brownies bake, the kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of fresh lemons and vanilla. Once cooled and cut into squares, these brownies are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, making them an ideal addition to your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients:
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the brownies out easily after baking.
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, and continue beating until well incorporated.
- Assemble: Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer in the pan. Use a knife or a toothpick to swirl the cream cheese mixture into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut them into squares. Serve and enjoy!
