Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies

by

These Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies are a zesty twist on the classic brownie, featuring a moist and tangy lemon-flavored base swirled with a luscious cream cheese layer. Perfect for lemon lovers, this dessert is a bright, refreshing treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

(Makes 9-12 brownies)

For the Lemon Brownie Base:

  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • Pinch of salt

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

  • 225g cream cheese (8 oz), softened
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Glaze (Optional):

  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
  2. Grease and line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Brownie Base

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and melted butter until smooth.
  2. Add the eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
  3. Sift in the flour, baking powder, and salt, and fold gently until no streaks of flour remain. Do not overmix.
  4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

  1. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
  2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture onto the lemon batter. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the two layers together for a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
  2. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.

Step 5: Make the Glaze (Optional)

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth.
  2. Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled brownies.

Step 6: Slice and Serv

  1. Once the brownies are fully cooled and the glaze has set, lift them out of the pan using the parchment overhang.
  2. Slice into squares and serve.

Tips for Success

  1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth and creamy batter.
  2. Don’t Overbake: The brownies should have slightly jiggly centers when removed from the oven. They’ll firm up as they cool.
  3. Customize: Add a handful of white chocolate chips to the lemon batter for extra sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies are the perfect balance of tangy and sweet, with a creamy texture and vibrant lemon flavor. Easy to make and utterly delicious, they’re ideal for springtime gatherings, holidays, or any time you crave a citrusy treat.

Enjoy every zesty bite!

Leave a Comment