Hershey’s Cream Cheese Brownies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love these Hershey’s Cream Cheese Brownies! First, they combine the best of both worlds—fudgy chocolate brownies with a silky-smooth cream cheese swirl. The combination of sweetness from the Hershey’s chocolate and the slight tang of the cream cheese makes for a perfect balance of flavors. Topped with melted Hershey’s chocolate bars, these brownies are the ultimate indulgence. Not only are they delicious, but the recipe is easy to follow, making them a great option for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

Ingredients

Brownie Layer:

• 3 oz (85 g) Hershey’s milk chocolate chips

• 10 tablespoons (140 g) unsalted butter

• 2 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons (15 g) Hershey’s unsweetened cocoa powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup (95 g) all-purpose flour

Cream Cheese Swirl:

• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened

• ⅓ cup (65 g) granulated sugar

• Pinch of salt

• 1 large egg

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Topping:

• 5 (1.55 oz / 44 g) Hershey’s milk chocolate bars

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

Directions

Prepare Brownie Batter:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch (23x23 cm) baking pan or line with parchment paper.

2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the Hershey’s milk chocolate chips and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, vanilla extract, and sugar until well combined.

4. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture, stirring until smooth.

5. In another bowl, sift together cocoa powder, salt, and flour.

6. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

7. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

Prepare Cream Cheese Swirl:

1. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add sugar, salt, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until fully incorporated and creamy.

3. Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter in dollops.

4. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.

Bake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 45–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

2. Remove from the oven and immediately place the Hershey’s chocolate bars on top of the hot brownies.

3. Return the pan to the still-warm (but turned off) oven for a few minutes until the chocolate bars soften.

4. Use a spatula to gently spread the melted chocolate over the top as a glaze.

5. Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

6. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45–60 minutes

• Chill/Rest Time: 1 hour

• Yield: 16 brownies

Variations

• Nutty Brownies: Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the brownie batter for an added crunch.

• Peanut Butter Swirl: For a peanut butter twist, replace the cream cheese swirl with a peanut butter mixture. Mix ½ cup peanut butter with 2 tablespoons sugar and 1 egg, and swirl it into the batter.

• Dark Chocolate: Swap the Hershey’s milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.

• Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cream cheese mixture for a mint-chocolate flavor combination.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week.

• Reheating: To reheat, place a brownie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until heated through.

FAQs

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If it comes out wet with batter, bake for a few more minutes.

Can I use a different type of chocolate in the recipe?

Yes, you can substitute Hershey’s milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake and cool the brownies in advance. Just be sure to refrigerate them for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, these brownies freeze well. Wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for a few hours.

How long do these brownies stay fresh?

These brownies will stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week if stored in the refrigerator.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

You can use low-fat cream cheese, but it may affect the texture slightly. Full-fat cream cheese creates a creamier, smoother swirl.

What if I don’t have a 9x9-inch pan?

If you don't have a 9x9-inch pan, you can use an 8x8-inch pan, but the brownies may take a little longer to bake.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 13x9-inch pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as needed.

What should I do if I can’t find Hershey’s chocolate bars?

If you can’t find Hershey’s chocolate bars, you can use another type of milk chocolate bar or even chocolate chips.

How can I make the cream cheese swirl more prominent?

To get a more noticeable swirl, you can increase the amount of cream cheese filling or add more dollops before swirling.

Conclusion

Hershey’s Cream Cheese Brownies are an irresistible combination of fudgy chocolate and creamy cheese that will satisfy any sweet tooth. With simple ingredients and a relatively easy process, these brownies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family gathering, or just because, they are sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy the rich, chocolatey goodness and the delightful cream cheese swirl that elevates them to the next level!

Print