Chocolate Chip Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

**Chocolate Chip Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting**

*A Decadent Fusion of Fudgy Chocolate and Tangy Cream Cheese Bliss*

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### Introduction

If you’re a dessert lover torn between the richness of brownies and the indulgent tang of cream cheese frosting, this recipe is for you. These **Chocolate Chip Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting** are the ultimate treat: dense, fudgy chocolate brownies loaded with chocolate chips and topped with a thick layer of sweet, tangy cream cheese frosting. The combination is luxurious and satisfying, making them a perfect dessert for holidays, birthdays, or just a decadent weeknight delight.

This recipe is made entirely from scratch—no box mixes or canned frostings—ensuring that each bite is rich, flavorful, and free from artificial aftertastes. The brownie base is thick and slightly chewy, with gooey chocolate pockets from the chocolate chips. The cream cheese frosting balances the richness with a light, creamy finish. Trust us, you won’t be able to stop at just one square.

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### Ingredients

#### For the Chocolate Chip Brownies:

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

* 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar

* ¾ cup packed light brown sugar

* 3 large eggs

* 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

* 1 cup all-purpose flour

* 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed recommended)

* ½ teaspoon salt

* ½ teaspoon baking powder

* 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus a few extra for topping)

#### For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

* 8 oz cream cheese, softened

* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

* 2 ½–3 cups powdered sugar, sifted

* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

* Pinch of salt

* Optional: chocolate chips or chocolate shavings for garnish

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### Instructions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting. Lightly grease the parchment.

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#### Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined and slightly glossy.

2. Add in the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the batter.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top. Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips over the surface.

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#### Step 3: Bake the Brownies

1. Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 28–32 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).

2. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting. If you're in a rush, place them in the fridge to speed up the cooling process.

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#### Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy—about 2–3 minutes.

2. Add the powdered sugar ½ cup at a time, mixing on low until incorporated. Increase the speed to medium and beat until fluffy.

3. Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and smooth. Adjust sweetness to taste by adding more powdered sugar if necessary.

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#### Step 5: Frost and Finish

1. Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula.

2. Optional: Sprinkle with additional chocolate chips, mini chips, or chocolate shavings for a decorative touch.

3. Refrigerate the frosted brownies for 30–60 minutes to set the frosting for cleaner cuts.

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### Serving Suggestions

* For perfect square cuts, dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between each slice.

* Serve chilled for a firm, clean bite or at room temperature for a softer frosting texture.

* Pair with a glass of cold milk or a strong cup of coffee for a dessert that hits every craving.

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### Storage

* Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

* You can also freeze individual squares, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

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### Tips and Variations

* **Add Nuts:** Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and a nutty contrast to the chocolate.

* **Try Different Chips:** Use dark chocolate chunks or even white chocolate chips for a twist.

* **Flavor the Frosting:** Add a teaspoon of espresso powder, orange zest, or a splash of almond extract to the frosting for a flavor boost.

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### Final Thoughts

These **Chocolate Chip Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting** are a total showstopper—a bold mix of rich chocolate and silky frosting that feels both indulgent and nostalgic. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this dessert is bound to become a new favorite. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make and even easier to love.

Would you like a printable card version or an adapted version for gluten-free baking?