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Blackberry Cream Cheese Brownies – Fudgy, Fruity, and Irresistibly Swirled

Brownies are already amazing. But when you take that dense, fudgy richness and swirl it with tangy cream cheese and sweet blackberry puree, you’re entering next-level dessert territory. These Blackberry Cream Cheese Brownies combine the best of three worlds: chocolate, cheesecake, and fresh berries. 🎂🍇🍫 Every bite is a blend of textures and flavors — the crackly top of the brownie, the luscious cream cheese layer, and the vibrant swirl of fresh blackberry puree. These bars look as impressive as they taste, making them perfect for parties, gifts, or just an indulgent weekend bake. Get ready to bake a batch that disappears in minutes. Let’s dive in!
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cooling & bake Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 brownies
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍇 Fruits et légumes
  • 1 cup blackberries fresh or thawed frozen
🧈 Produits laitiers
  • ½ cup unsalted butter 1 stick
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • ¼ cup milk optional, for thinning blackberry puree
🍳 Produits frais
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 egg yolk for extra richness
🧂 Aides culinaires et épices
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup cocoa powder unsweetened
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
🍫 Extras
  • ½ cup chocolate chips semi-sweet or dark

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Blackberry Puree
  1. In a small saucepan, combine:
  2. 1 cup blackberries
  3. 1 tbsp sugar
  4. Splash of water or milk if needed
  5. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until berries break down (about 5 minutes).
  6. Strain through a mesh sieve to remove seeds, then cool.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Melt ½ cup butter in a saucepan or microwave. Let it cool slightly.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk:
  4. Melted butter
  5. 2 eggs + 1 yolk
  6. ½ cup brown sugar
  7. ¼ cup granulated sugar
  8. ½ tsp salt
  9. ½ tsp vanilla extract
  10. Stir in:
  11. ⅓ cup cocoa powder
  12. ¾ cup flour
  13. Chocolate chips
  14. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
  1. In another bowl, beat:
  2. 8 oz cream cheese
  3. ¼ cup granulated sugar
  4. ½ tsp vanilla extract
  5. 1 egg
  6. Beat until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Brownies
  1. Pour most of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Reserve about ¼ cup for the top.
  2. Spread the cream cheese layer gently over the brownie base.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of blackberry puree on top of the cream cheese.
  4. Use a skewer or knife to swirl the blackberry and cream cheese layers gently.
  5. Add the reserved brownie batter in spoonfuls and swirl again lightly for a marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake
  1. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
  2. Let cool completely before slicing for best texture and clean cuts.

Notes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions
With Ice Cream: Serve warm with vanilla or blackberry ice cream
As a Dessert Platter: Pair with fresh berries and chocolate curls
For Brunch: Add a berry mimosa and fruit salad for a chic spread
Holiday Treats: Wrap individually for festive gifts or bake sales
🔄 Variations
🧁 Cheesecake Brownies Without Berries
Skip the blackberry swirl for a classic cheesecake brownie.
🍓 Mixed Berry Swirl
Use raspberries, strawberries, or a combo with blackberries.
🍫 Double Chocolate
Use a brownie base with melted dark chocolate and cocoa powder for extra fudginess.
🌾 Gluten-Free
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
🍊 Citrus Twist
Add orange zest to the cream cheese layer for a blackberry-orange flavor fusion.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing
Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Microwave: 15–20 seconds for a warm, gooey bite.
Oven: Warm at 300°F for 5–8 minutes.
❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes! Thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
2. Can I make this in a 9x13 pan?
You can, but the bars will be thinner and may bake faster. Watch your timing.
3. Do I need to swirl perfectly?
Nope! Imperfect swirls make each slice unique and beautiful.
4. Can I skip the cream cheese layer?
Yes, but then it becomes a classic brownie with berry swirl.
5. Why is my brownie dry?
It may be overbaked. Pull them out when the center is just set.
6. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese, butter, and chocolate chips.
7. What if I don’t have cocoa powder?
You can melt 2 oz unsweetened chocolate with the butter as a substitute.
8. Can I add nuts?
Yes! Walnuts or pecans add crunch and richness.
9. How do I cut clean slices?
Chill completely, then use a hot, sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
10. Can I add a glaze on top?
Absolutely — drizzle with melted white chocolate or a simple powdered sugar icing.
💡 Pro Tips for the Perfect Swirl Brownies
Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth swirl.
Don’t overmix brownie batter to keep it tender.
Swirl with a light hand to maintain separate layers.
Use a lined pan for easy lifting and cleaner slicing.
Let cool completely for the best texture and appearance.
🏁 Conclusion
These Blackberry Cream Cheese Brownies are the dessert you didn’t know you needed — fudgy, fruity, and totally unforgettable. With rich chocolate, tangy cheesecake, and a pop of berry flavor, every bite is a beautiful contrast of textures and tastes.
Whether you’re baking for a party, a picnic, or just because it’s Tuesday, this is a treat that hits all the right notes: indulgent, stunning, and surprisingly easy to make. 🍇🍫
Swirl, bake, and fall in love.