Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Blackberry Cream Cheese Brownies combine everything you love about brownies with the creamy richness of cheesecake and the sweetness of fresh fruit. The brownie layer is decadent and dense, while the cream cheese layer adds a luxurious, smooth contrast. The blackberries on top bring a pop of color and a refreshing tartness, creating the perfect balance of flavors. These brownies are sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Ingredients

Brownies:

½ cup melted butter
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
⅓ cup cocoa powder
½ cup flour
¼ tsp salt

Cream Cheese Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup sugar
1 egg
½ tsp vanilla extract

Topping:

1 cup fresh blackberries
2 tbsp sugar

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
Make the Brownie Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined. In another bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until fully incorporated. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter, spreading it out evenly to cover the surface.
Prepare the Blackberry Topping: In a small bowl, gently mix the fresh blackberries with the sugar, ensuring the berries are well-coated.
Assemble and Bake: Spoon the sugared blackberries over the cream cheese layer, distributing them evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the brownies are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few crumbs.
Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. For best results, let them cool completely before slicing. This ensures the cream cheese layer sets and the brownies hold together.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 16
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Fruit Topping: You can replace blackberries with other fresh berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries, depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference.
Nutty Brownies: Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the brownie layer for an added crunch.
Chocolate Chips: Fold chocolate chips into the brownie batter for an extra chocolatey bite.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
Freezing: These brownies freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes! These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for longer storage.

Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the brownies to avoid sogginess.

Can I substitute the cream cheese layer for something else?

If you prefer a non-dairy option, you can substitute the cream cheese with vegan cream cheese or a non-dairy yogurt alternative for a similar creamy texture.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when the edges are firm and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I add more blackberries?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of blackberries according to your preference. More berries will add more fruity flavor, but be sure to not overload the top, as it could affect the texture of the cake.

Conclusion

These Blackberry Cream Cheese Brownies are a deliciously indulgent dessert that’s easy to make but looks impressive enough for any special occasion. With their fudgy brownie base, creamy cheesecake topping, and sweet-tart blackberry layer, these brownies hit all the right notes. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, a party, or simply enjoying them at home, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Blackberry Cream Cheese Brownies Recipe