Cream Cheese Brownies

Not Greek, yet still delicious! 

Originally, I planned on making these to take to someone’s house, but since the weather was terrible I ended up staying home. Luckily for me and my husband, I only made a small batch that we finished over the weekend. 

In the Greek culture you never show up empty handed, anywhere. Whether you are just dropping in or have a set date with someone, you should always come bearing a small gift. This is traditionally sweets, wine, or flowers. I wanted to bring something a bit more to my Greek/Australian friend, but it looks like she will be getting something else. So, these brownies will be to share with you now, they are the perfect combination of fudgey and cakey all topped with a light cream cheese flavor. 

Cream Cheese Brownies 1/4 cup AP flour 1/4 cup whole wheat flour 1/4 cup instant oats, slightly blended 1/4 cup dark cocoa powder Dash of cinnamon or instant espresso Dash of salt 175 g. baking chocolate bar (~ 6-8 small pieces), chopped 1/2 cup butter, softened 2 large eggs, slightly beaten 1 tsp. vanilla 1/2 -3/4 cup sugar Melt the butter and chocolate in a large bowl over water (or double boiler), in a separate bowl sift flours, oats, cocoa, and salt together. Once the butter and chocolate are melted, add the sugar and continue to stir. Once smooth and consistent, remove from heat and cool slightly. Begin whisking the chocolate mix while slowing adding the beaten eggs, vanilla, and espresso cinnamon. Fold in the dry mixture and stir until just moistened. Pour into prepared pan and top with cream cheese, using a knife to make swirls. ake 35-40 minutes. If you prefer a more fudgey brownie, remove when toothpick has slight batter; if you prefer more cakey, cook until toothpick is removed clean.

Make these next time you are meeting with some friends or family and see how they light up at the sight of chocolate and cream cheese brownies! And try your best not to take a bit out of them before sharing 🙂