Deliciously Tangy: Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies
Indulge your senses with the perfect balance of tangy lemon flavor and rich creaminess in our Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies. These decadent treats are a delightful twist on the classic brownie, featuring a lemon-infused brownie base topped with a luscious layer of cream cheese. Whether you’re a fan of citrusy desserts or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, these brownies are sure to impress. Follow along to discover the recipe for this irresistible dessert sensation.
Ingredients:
For the Lemon Brownie:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 oz. white chocolate, finely chopped (or white chocolate chips)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- Grated zest from 2 large lemons
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- 1/4 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:
For the Lemon Brownie:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the unsalted butter and white chocolate together in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
- Mix Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and chocolate mixture with sugar and lemon zest. Mix well.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the lemon extract and salt.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour Batter:
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and egg, and beat until creamy and well combined.
- Layer Cream Cheese:
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the lemon brownie batter in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake:
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
- Serve and enjoy these delicious Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Lemon Glaze: For an extra burst of lemon flavor, drizzle the cooled brownies with a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to the brownie batter for added texture and flavor.
- Chocolate Swirl: For a marbled effect, gently swirl melted dark chocolate into the cream cheese layer before baking.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the all-purpose flour to make these brownies gluten-free.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of these brownies, use a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of sugar. Additionally, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a lower carb count in the brownie base.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of sugar used in both the brownie batter and the cream cheese layer, or use a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener. You can also use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a lower carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use lemon juice instead of lemon extract? A: While lemon juice can be used as a substitute, lemon extract provides a more concentrated lemon flavor without adding extra liquid to the batter.
Q: Can I make these brownies ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake these brownies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Q: Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the cream cheese layer? A: Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese if you prefer. However, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and creaminess of the cream cheese layer slightly.
Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies are the ultimate dessert indulgence, combining the bright citrusy flavor of lemon with the creamy richness of cream cheese. With their moist, tender texture and irresistible taste, these brownies are guaranteed to be a hit with friends and family alike. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a sweet treat at home, these brownies are sure to leave a lasting impression. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and experience the blissful delight of Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies!
Experience the divine combination of tangy lemon and creamy goodness with our irresistible Lemon Cream Cheese Brownies. With every bite, you’ll savor the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make these brownies truly unforgettable. So don’t hesitate—treat yourself to a slice of pure indulgence today!