Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, combining the bright, tangy flavor of lemon with the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake. These brownies are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a dense and fudgy base that is not cakey at all. The addition of white chocolate enhances the lemon flavor, creating a unique dessert that is both refreshing and indulgent. These Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies are ideal for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a summer picnic or a winter holiday gathering. The creamy cheesecake layer swirled into the lemony base not only adds a beautiful marbled effect but also a creamy texture that complements the dense brownie perfectly.
This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in the baking and cooling process, ensuring the brownies are set without becoming too dry. Below, you’ll find detailed instructions for making these delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies, along with tips for variations and substitutions to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe
Ingredients
For the Lemon Brownie:
½ cup unsalted butter
4 oz white chocolate, finely chopped (or white chocolate chips)
¾ cup sugar
Grated zest from 2 large lemons
2 eggs
1 teaspoon lemon extract
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
1/3 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal, and spray with cooking spray. Set aside.
Prepare the Lemon Brownie Batter:
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate and butter. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth. Allow to cool for about 5 minutes.
Whisk in the sugar until well combined. Add the eggs, lemon zest, salt, and lemon extract, whisking until evenly mixed. Finally, fold in the flour until just combined. Reserve ½ cup of the batter for the topping.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the egg and mix just until combined.
Assemble the Brownies:
Spread the remaining lemon brownie batter in the prepared pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the lemon batter and gently smooth the top. Drop small spoonfuls of the reserved lemon batter over the cream cheese layer. Use a toothpick or a thin knife to swirl the batter, creating a marbled effect.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few damp crumbs.
Cool and Chill:
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Chilling the brownies helps them to fully set and makes them easier to cut with clean edges.
Serve:
When ready to serve, remove the brownies from the fridge and lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares using a sharp knife. Enjoy!
Variations
Lemon Raspberry Brownies:
Add a layer of fresh or frozen raspberries between the lemon brownie batter and the cream cheese layer for a fruity twist.
Gluten-Free Lemon Brownies:
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free.
Coconut Lemon Brownies:
Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the lemon brownie batter for a tropical flavor.
Low-Sugar Version:
Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol in place of the sugar to reduce the overall sugar content.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Option:
Use dairy-free butter and cream cheese to make the brownies suitable for those with dairy sensitivities.
Egg Substitutes:
Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan version.
Alternative Sweeteners:
Honey or maple syrup can be used in place of sugar for a different sweetness profile.
Conclusion
Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies are a delightful and unique dessert that brings together the tangy freshness of lemon with the rich creaminess of cheesecake. The combination of flavors and textures makes these brownies a standout treat for any occasion. The recipe is easy to follow and can be customized with various variations and substitutions to suit different dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of classic brownies or looking to try something new, these Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies are sure to impress. Enjoy the bright, refreshing taste and the indulgent creaminess of this special dessert.