These Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting are something else – gooey, rich chocolate brownies topped with a delicious cream cheese topping – YUM! They’re made with simple ingredients, are easy to make AND they’re secretly healthy!
So, we’ve definitely all had a brownie before; but have you had a brownie with cream cheese frosting? Let me tell you: it’s something else. The rich chocolate flavor works surprisingly well with the creamy, cream cheese topping. It’s kind of revolutionary.
They’re seriously so easy to make, I’d go as far as to say, they’re actually foolproof. It’s just a case of making the brownie batter (where you’ll have to test your willpower to not eat it all before it goes in the oven), bake the brownies to gooey perfection then top with an easy and healthy two-ingredient cream cheese frosting.
The most shocking part about this recipe is not how moreish and delicious they are, but the fact that they’re healthy!? Honestly, you would never be able to tell they’re healthy because they’re just so absolutely stunning.
The ingredients used are nourishing and simple including yogurt, dark chocolate, wholemeal flour, coconut sugar, and a couple of other basic ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen!
I seriously cannot wait for you to experience these Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Why you’ll love these Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Gooey Brownies? Topped with Cream Cheese Frosting? Enough said.
- They’re easy to make and require minimal work!
- No fancy equipment or technical skills needed.
- They’re egg-free, nut-free, refined sugar-free and can easily be made dairy-free, vegan and even gluten-free!
- They’re made with simple, nourishing ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
- They’re so so so delicious!
- They’re good for your soul and your body!
How are these Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting “Healthy”?
These brownies might taste indulgent, but they’re packed with nutritious ingredients that make them a healthier option compared to traditional brownies. Here’s how:
1. Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate is a powerful antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also known for its ability to improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow. Using refined sugar-free dark chocolate ensures that you get the maximum health benefits without unnecessary additives.
2. Yogurt: Yogurt adds creaminess and moisture to the brownies without needing large amounts of oil or butter. It’s a good source of protein and calcium, which are essential for bone health. Greek yogurt or other thick yogurts are especially beneficial as they contain higher protein levels and probiotics, promoting digestive health.
3. Coconut Sugar: Coconut sugar is a natural sweetener that retains more nutrients than refined white or brown sugar. It has a lower glycemic index, which means it won’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This helps in maintaining steady energy levels and preventing sugar crashes.
4. Wholemeal Flour: Wholemeal (whole wheat) flour is a healthier alternative to refined white flour. It contains more fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which aid digestion, help maintain a healthy weight, and reduce the risk of heart disease. The extra fiber also contributes to a feeling of fullness, which can help with appetite control.
5. Cocoa Powder: Using unsweetened cocoa powder adds a rich chocolate flavor while providing several health benefits. Cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and protect against diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. It also supports improved cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
6. Cream Cheese: When choosing cream cheese for the frosting, opting for one made without additives or artificial ingredients ensures you’re consuming a more natural product. Cream cheese provides a source of protein and healthy fats, essential for a balanced diet. Using a natural liquid sweetener for the frosting keeps it refined sugar-free, adding sweetness without compromising health.
7. Customizable for Dietary Needs: These brownies can easily be adapted to fit various dietary requirements. They are egg-free and nut-free, and with simple substitutions, they can be made dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free. This versatility ensures that more people can enjoy a delicious treat without compromising their dietary restrictions.
By using these wholesome ingredients, these brownies deliver not only on flavor but also on nutritional value, making them a smart choice for a healthier dessert. Enjoy the decadent taste without the guilt!
Ingredients Needed:
These are the ingredients you’ll need to make these Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting. You can find the exact measurements in the recipe card at the bottom of this page.
- Dark Chocolate: The secret to gooey, decadent brownies is melted dark chocolate in the batter. Like cocoa powder, dark chocolate is a great antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredient; and YES – it is healthy! Try to use a refined sugar-free dark chocolate like this one. You can use any chocolate you have.
- Yogurt: Yogurt adds delicious gooeyness to these brownies without needing an excessive amount of oil or butter. It also adds extra protein and calcium to your diet – BONUS! Try to use thick yogurt like Greek yogurt or Double Cream yogurt, and make sure there are no additives or artificial sweeteners. You can use a dairy-free alternative like soy or coconut yogurt to make vegan chocolate brownies.
- Sugar: I usually use coconut sugar as it’s an unrefined sugar that’s a lot more nutritious than regular white or brown sugar. I recently discovered panela sugar and this is now my favorite! You can use any sugar you like, however the change might slightly affect the texture of the cookies.
- Milk: To bring the brownie batter to the correct consistency. Milk also adds extra protein and calcium. You can use a dairy-free milk alternative for vegan brownies.
- Plain Wholemeal Flour: I use whole wheat flour as it contains more nutrients, protein, and fiber compared to refined white flour. You could alternatively use All-Purpose Flour or for a gluten-free version you can use oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Baking Soda or Bicarbonate of Soda: This reacts with the cocoa powder to give the brownies a slight lift whilst keeping them gooey and delicious instead of cakey.
- Cocoa Powder: I recommend using Dutch-process cocoa powder as it has a lovely rich chocolaty flavor. Make sure your cocoa powder is unsweetened. Cocoa powder contains antioxidants that help to improve cholesterol and blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It also helps to reduce inflammation and can protect you from diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. You can also use cacao powder.
- Cream Cheese: You cannot make cream cheese frosting without cream cheese! I recommend using cream cheese made with just milk and no extra additives, gums, or sweeteners. You can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for vegan brownies or try my Vegan Cream Cheese Recipe.
- Liquid Sweetener of Choice: To add sweetness while keeping this frosting refined sugar-free, I recommend using a natural liquid sweetener like honey, maple syrup, agave, or date syrup.
Equipment Needed
- Digital Food Scale: For accurate measurements and perfect results.
- Loaf Pan or other small pan: Mine is 10cm x 20cm (read on for tips if using a bigger or smaller tin)
- Parchment Paper
- Mixing Bowl: One large bowl for the brownie batter and one small bowl to melt the chocolate and make the cream cheese frosting.
- Whisk or Fork and Spatula
How to make Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Here is a detailed summary of how to make these Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting. I’ve also included some photos, and you can watch the recipe video in the recipe card.
Step one:
Start by preheating your oven and lining your baking tin with a sheet of parchment paper leaving some paper overhanging the pan for easy removal.
Step two:
Start by melting your chocolate. You can do this in a double boiler or in the microwave, stopping every 30 seconds to stir and prevent burning.
Step three:
Add your room-temperature yogurt, milk, and sugar to your large mixing bowl. Whisk with a whisk or fork until combined.
Step four:
Add the melted chocolate and whisk until smooth.
Step five:
Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold with a spatula.
Step six:
Transfer the brownie batter to the baking tin and smooth out the top.
Step seven:
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. The brownies will rise quite a bit, but as they cool it will fall flat and create the gooiest brownies.
Step eight:
Whilst the brownies are cooling in the tin you can make your cream cheese frosting by combining the cream cheese and liquid sweetener. Place in the fridge until the brownies have completely cooled.
Step nine:
Once the brownies have cooled, remove from the tin and spread the cream cheese frosting on top. You can refrigerate for a further half an hour for the frosting to set further before slicing with a sharp, clean knife.
Tips and Notes for Perfect Brownies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Choosing the Right Chocolate:
Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and texture. If using chocolate chips, ensure they are designed to melt smoothly.
Consistency of Yogurt:
Use thick yogurt like Greek yogurt or Double Cream yogurt for a creamier texture. If your yogurt is too thin, strain it through a cheesecloth to remove excess liquid.
Mixing Technique:
Avoid over-mixing the batter after adding the flour. Over-mixing can develop the gluten too much, leading to tougher brownies. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients gently.
Baking Time:
Keep an eye on the brownies as they bake. Ovens can vary, so start checking a few minutes before the suggested baking time. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooling:
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the tin before removing. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle when applying the frosting.
Frosting:
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing with the liquid sweetener. This ensures a smooth and creamy frosting without lumps.
– For a firmer frosting, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes before spreading it on the brownies.
Cutting the Brownies:
For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. Refrigerate the brownies for about 30 minutes before slicing to make cleaner cuts.
Customizing:
- Add mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the batter for extra texture and flavor. Just be sure not to add too many as it could affect the baking time and texture.
- You can also add some cocoa powder to the frosting for a chocolate cream cheese frosting.
- Experiment with different flavors of yogurt and liquid sweeteners to create unique variations of these brownies. For example, try using a flavored yogurt or adding a splash of vanilla extract to the batter.
Using a Different Size Baking Tin
- Smaller Tin: If using a smaller tin, the batter will be thicker, so you may need to increase the baking time. Start by adding 5-10 minutes to the suggested baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Larger Tin: If using a larger tin, the batter will be thinner, so reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes. Check for doneness a few minutes before the original baking time.
These tips and notes will help you achieve the best results and enjoy the most delicious, healthy brownies with cream cheese frosting.
How to store brownies with cream cheese frosting
Proper storage will keep your brownies fresh and delicious for longer.
Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the brownies within a day, you can store them at room temperature. Place the brownies in an airtight container to keep them from drying out, and they will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, it’s best to keep the brownies in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent them from absorbing any odors from the fridge. Refrigerated brownies will stay fresh for up to one week. If the brownies have cream cheese frosting, refrigeration is essential to keep the frosting fresh and safe to eat.
Freezing: To store brownies for an extended period, you can freeze them. It’s best to freeze them without the frosting and add the frosting after thawing. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container to prevent freezer burn and keep them fresh. Label the container with the date to keep track of how long they’ve been stored. Brownies can be frozen for up to three months.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen brownies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, you can add the cream cheese frosting if it wasn’t applied before freezing. For a freshly baked taste, you can warm the brownies in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes after thawing.
By following these storage instructions, you can enjoy your delicious brownies with cream cheese frosting for days to come!
FAQ
Can I make these brownies vegan?
Yes, you can make these brownies vegan. Substitute the yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like soy, coconut, or almond yogurt. Use dairy-free dark chocolate and plant-based milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk. Ensure the cream cheese for the frosting is a vegan variety, and use a liquid sweetener like agave or maple syrup.
How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free brownies, substitute the plain wholemeal flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes a binder like xanthan gum to help with texture. You can also use almond flour or oat flour, but this may alter the texture slightly.
What can I use instead of coconut sugar?
You can use panela sugar, date sugar, or maple sugar as alternatives to coconut sugar. If you’re looking for a low glycemic index option, try monk fruit sweetener or erythritol. Keep in mind that different sugars may slightly affect the texture and flavor. You can also use white or brown sugar if you prefer to.
Can I freeze the brownies with the frosting already on them?
It’s best to freeze the brownies without the frosting and add the frosting after thawing. This helps maintain the texture and freshness of both the brownies and the frosting. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
How long can I store the brownies at room temperature?
Brownies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate them to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage, especially if they have cream cheese frosting.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the brownies. The brownies are done when the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Keep in mind that baking times may vary depending on your oven and the size of the baking tin.
Can I add mix-ins to the brownie batter?
Yes, you can add mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the batter for extra texture and flavor. Just be careful not to add too many as this could affect the baking time and texture.
What type of dark chocolate should I use?
Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor and texture. Choose a refined sugar-free dark chocolate to keep the recipe healthy. Ensure the chocolate is designed to melt smoothly, which is essential for achieving the perfect gooey texture in the brownies.
more healthy recipes for chocolate lovers
- Chocolate orange cake recipe: easy, fudgey, healthy
- The EASIEST Chocolate Orange Cheesecake
- Easy & Healthy No-Bake Mini Triple Chocolate Cheesecakes
- Easy and Healthy Chocolate Bagels (made without yeast)
Hey! If you make this recipe, I would love it if you could leave me some feedback and a rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ in the comment section at the bottom of the page! Also, let me know on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and see your photos!
Brownie with Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- Loaf Tin 20cm x 10cm baking tin – read notes for alternative sizes
Ingredients
- 240 g Yogurt (1 cup)
- 85 g Coconut Sugar (½ cup)
- 125 ml Milk (½ cup milk)
- 90 g Dark Chocolate
- 90 g Plain Wholemeal Flour (1 cup)
- 50 g Cocoa Powder (½ cup)
- ¼ tsp Baking Soda
- ¼ tsp Salt
Healthy Cream Cheese Frosting
- 100 g Cream Cheese (½ cup)
- 100 g Yogurt (½ cup)
- 40 g Liquid Sweetener (2 tbsp)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10cm x 20cm loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Melt the dark chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to prevent burning.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yogurt, milk, and coconut sugar until well combined.
- Pour the melted chocolate into the yogurt mixture and whisk until smooth.
- Sift the wholemeal flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt into the wet mixture. Gently fold with a spatula until just combined.
- Transfer the brownie batter to the prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. The brownies will rise and then settle as they cool.
- While the brownies are cooling, mix the cream cheese and liquid sweetener in a small bowl until smooth. Place the frosting in the fridge until ready to use.
- Once the brownies are completely cool, remove them from the tin using the parchment paper overhang. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the brownies. For best results, refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to set the frosting before slicing.
- Slice the brownies with a sharp, clean knife and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Smaller Tin: If using a smaller tin, the batter will be thicker, so you may need to increase the baking time. Start by adding 5-10 minutes to the suggested baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Larger Tin: If using a larger tin, the batter will be thinner, so reduce the baking time by 5-10 minutes. Check for doneness a few minutes before the original baking time.
- Melt Chocolate Carefully: Use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to avoid burning the chocolate.
- Avoid Over-mixing: When folding in the dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the brownies tender and fudgy.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the yogurt and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth, even batter and frosting.
- Lining the Tin: Use parchment paper with an overhang for easy removal of the brownies from the tin.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. They are done when it comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- Cool Completely: Let the brownies cool fully in the tin to set properly and make them easier to frost.
- Clean Cuts: For clean slices, refrigerate the brownies after frosting and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between each cut.
Nutrition
Please leave a comment down below if you made these Brownies with Cream Cheese frosting!
