Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent, buttery blondie with a luxurious cream cheese swirl that creates the most Instagram-worthy dessert you've ever seen. These Cream Cheese Swirled Blondies are not just a treat; they're a culinary experience that combines the rich, caramel-like sweetness of a classic blondie with the tangy, smooth elegance of cream cheese. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to elevate your dessert game and impress everyone from family gatherings to potluck parties.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 blondies
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined and slightly smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Pour blondie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Drop spoonfuls of cream cheese mixture on top of the blondie batter. Use a knife to create swirl patterns by gently dragging the cream cheese through the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, about 1 hour.
- Use parchment paper overhang to lift blondies out of the pan. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't Overmix: When combining flour, mix just until ingredients are incorporated to keep blondies tender.
- Swirl Technique: For beautiful marbling, use a knife or toothpick to create gentle, random swirl patterns in the cream cheese.
- Check for Doneness: A few moist crumbs on the toothpick are perfect - this ensures a soft, chewy blondie.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let blondies cool completely before cutting to help them set and make clean, neat squares.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 55mg
