Fudgy Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These brownies with cream cheese frosting are one of my favorite ways to upgrade homemade brownies. It's such an easy way to add a little extra flavor! You'll love making these for all the special occasions. 

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission when you click on the links and make a purchase. I will never recommend a product that I don’t support 100%.

You'll love these brownies with cream cheese frosting

They're easy to make. I use a boxed brownie combination that is so delicious and give you the most fudgy brownies. You won't go through the hassle of making homemade brownies ever again.

They're delicious. These are truly the most decadent brownies and the cream cheese frosting is the perfect finishing touch. If you are having chocolate cravings, you'll love having these around. 

They're perfect for any occasion. You can dress these up for any occasion! Swap out a birthday cake for these chocolatey brownies, add some holiday sprinkles to make them for your next Christmas party or anything in between.

Ingredients

With a few simple ingredients, you can make some of the best brownies you've ever had. Here's what you need. 

Boxed Brownie Mix. The trick to getting the best homemade brownies out of boxed brownies is using Ghiradelli. However, you have to use one box of Dark Chocolate and one box of Triple Chocolate brownies mix. I've included some more boxed brownie hacks below! 

Cream Cheese. Homemade cream cheese frosting is so easy to make! You'll need one block of plain cream cheese, and be sure you've brought it down to room temperature. 

Butter. Butter is essential for any homemade frosting. Similar to the cream cheese, you want to make sure that this is brought to room temperature. An easy way to remember to do this is by just pulling your cream cheese and butter out of the fridge when you put the brownies in the oven to bake. 

Vanilla Extract. You'll need vanilla extract for not only the frosting, but you always have to add a splash to the brownies!

Powdered Sugar. Similar to butter, powdered sugar is essential to any homemade frosting recipe. 

How to make brownies with cream cheese frosting

With a few simple ingredients, you can make these cream cheese brownies in no time.

1. Preheat your oven to what the directions state on the box of brownies you're using. Ghiradelli says to preheat to 325F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together your brownie mix, eggs, milk (not water!), oil, and vanilla. 
3. Spray a 9x11 sheet pan with cooking spray.
4. Pour batter into a prepared 9x11 sheet pan.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Once your brownies are done, allow them to cool.
7. While they are cooling make your cream cheese frosting.
8. Using either a stand mixer or a hand mixer, beat together your cream cheese and butter over medium speed.
9. Slowly add in the powdered sugar. 
10. Lastly, add in the vanilla extract and whip until fluffy. 
11. Spread on your cooled brownies, slice and enjoy!

The best way to cut brownies with cream cheese frosting

You'll want to wait at least 30 minutes to let your brownies cool before slicing them. To get the most clean-cut brownies, cut them with a straight-edged knife. Cutting brownies with cream cheese frosting will naturally be messy, but this will give you the best results.

Tip: you can also chill the brownies with cream cheese frosting before cutting and slice them cold!

Ways to upgrade boxed brownies

Espresso Powder. Adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to your brownie mix absolutely elevates the chocolate flavor to a whole other level. 

Milk, not Water. Use milk, not water! It adds a richer flavor for a decadent dessert. 

Chocolate Chips. I love biting into a brownie and having a melty gooey chocolate chip in there! If you are a chocolate lover like me, this is a must. 

Use Vegetable Oil. Don't use butter! Oil is 100% fat content, so if you want those fudgy chocolate brownies, you have to use oil. Butter will make your brownies a little cakey. 

You can find more tips and tricks in my boxed brownie hacks post!

Substitutions and variations

Red Velvet Brownies. If you want to make these for Valentine's Day, making them into delicious red velvet brownies would be so perfect! 

Homemade Brownies. If you want to make homemade brownies, you can totally do that! Here's a great recipe for homemade sheet pan brownies. 

Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting. If you want to make these extra chocolatey, you can make chocolate cream cheese frosting for these fancy brownies. 

Sprinkles.​ Grab your favorite sprinkles for a fun and easy garnish that's perfect for any time of year. 

Tips for making the best cream cheese frosting

If you are looking to make the best creamy cream cheese frosting, here are some tips. 

1. Make sure the cream cheese and butter are room temperature before mixing.
2. Use full-fat cream cheese
3. Use an electric mixer, whether that be a stand mixer or a hand mixer for the best results. 

Storing these brownies with cream cheese

Store the brownies in an airtight container in the fridge. 

FAQs

Do cream cheese frosted brownies need to be refrigerated?

Yes, they do! Because the cream cheese mixture has dairy in it, it needs to be microwaved. 

How do I substitute cream cheese for frosting?

You can substitute greek yogurt or sour cream. You may need to add more sugar to ensure you have a sweet "cream cheese" frosting, but taste as you go! 

What can I add to store-bought cream cheese frosting?

You can add a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, cocoa powder, or brown sugar.

Pin it for later!