Name: Cream Cheese Brownie Tart: Decadent Indulgence at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 73 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Semi-sweet baking chocolate (Try using Mexican chocolate for a unique twist.); 1/4 cup Coffee or water (Using coffee adds a deeper flavor profile.); 1 cup Granulated sugar; 1/2 cup Butter (salted) (Substitute with unsalted butter if desired.); 1 tbsp Vanilla extract (Essential, no substitutions.); 1/2 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder (Adjust quantity to taste.); 3 large Eggs (Room temperature.); 1/4 tsp Kosher salt (Can replace with table salt.); 1 cup All-purpose flour (Replace with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.); 8 oz Cream cheese (full-fat or reduced-fat) (Avoid no-fat varieties.); 1/2 cup Caramel sauce (Homemade or store-bought.); 1 large Egg (Room temperature.); 1 tbsp Vanilla extract (No substitutions.); 1/4 tsp Kosher salt (Can use table salt.)

The first whiff of freshly baked brownies has a way of wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia. What if I told you that you can elevate that cherished moment with a Caramel Cream Cheese Brownie Tart? This ridiculously easy recipe marries the plushness of a brownie with the velvety embrace of cream cheese and a luscious caramel swirl. Perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering or simply treating yourself to a slice of homemade joy, it takes mere minutes to prepare. Plus, with the option to go gluten-free or make your own caramel sauce, you can customize it to fit your needs without breaking a sweat. Are you ready to bring a bakery-quality delight to your table?

Why Is This Tart a Game Changer?

Decadent Indulgence: The Caramel Cream Cheese Brownie Tart beautifully balances rich chocolate flavor with creamy texture, creating a dessert that feels indulgent yet accessible.

Ridiculously Easy: With minimal steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for novice bakers and busy cooks alike.

Gluten-Free Flexibility: Enjoy a delicious dessert without gluten by easily substituting with gluten-free flour.

Impressive Presentation: The gorgeous swirls of caramel and cream cheese not only taste divine but also make a stunning centerpiece for any occasion.

Versatile Options: Customize your tart by experimenting with homemade caramel or even add nuts for an extra crunch! If you’re in the mood for more delightful treats, check out my Fudgy Cosmic Brownie recipe for a chocolatey twist.

Cream Cheese Brownie Tart Ingredients

For the Brownie Base

Semi-sweet baking chocolate – Provides a rich chocolatey flavor; try using Mexican chocolate for a unique twist.
Coffee or water – Acts as a melting agent to enhance the chocolate’s richness; using coffee adds a deeper flavor profile.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the brownie base, ensuring a perfect balance; no substitutions needed.
Butter (salted) – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with unsalted butter if desired but adjust the salt in the recipe.
Vanilla extract – Elevates the overall flavor; this ingredient is essential and has no substitutions.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Deepens the chocolate’s flavor; while no substitutions are available, you can adjust the quantity to taste.
Large eggs – These are vital for structure and moisture; be sure they are at room temperature for even mixing.
Kosher salt – Enhances overall flavor; you can replace it with table salt in a pinch.
All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the brownie base; replace it with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.

For the Cream Cheese Layer

Cream cheese (full-fat or reduced-fat) – Forms the creamy layer; avoid no-fat varieties as they won’t set properly.
Caramel sauce – This swirled addition adds flavor and visual appeal; consider making homemade caramel or using store-bought dulce de leche.
Large egg (for cream cheese mixture) – Binds the cream cheese layer together; ensure it’s also at room temperature.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor in the cream cheese mixture; as with the brownie base, no substitutions are needed.
Kosher salt (for cream cheese mixture) – Adds depth and balance; just like before, you can use table salt if that’s what you have on hand.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cream Cheese Brownie Tart

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, take a tart pan and grease it well with butter or cooking spray. Line the bottom and sides with parchment paper for easy removal later. This step ensures your Cream Cheese Brownie Tart comes out beautifully without sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet baking chocolate, coffee (or water), granulated sugar, and salted butter. Microwave this mixture for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes, ensuring it’s not too hot for the next ingredients, as this creates a rich base for the brownie.

Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter
Once the chocolate mixture has cooled, whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder until well combined. Next, add the room temperature eggs, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly before gradually incorporating the all-purpose flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix to achieve a fudgy texture for your Cream Cheese Brownie Tart.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese until it’s completely smooth and free of lumps. Then, incorporate the caramel sauce, one room-temperature egg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of kosher salt. Mix well until this creamy layer is luscious and uniform, ready to swirl into the brownie batter.

Step 5: Assemble the Tart
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared tart pan, spreading it evenly to cover the base. Reserve about ¼ cup of the batter and set it aside. Next, gently add the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer, smoothing it out. Finally, dollop the reserved brownie batter on top, then use a skewer or knife to create swirls throughout for that delightful marbled look.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled Cream Cheese Brownie Tart in the preheated oven and bake for 22–28 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are set and the center looks slightly puffed but still has a little jiggle. Keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking, as you want that fudgy texture!

Step 7: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool to room temperature in the pan. Once cooled, carefully lift the tart out using the parchment paper and transfer it to a serving platter. Slice it up, and it’s ready to serve. For an added treat, drizzle with extra caramel sauce and enjoy your decadent Cream Cheese Brownie Tart!

Expert Tips for Cream Cheese Brownie Tart

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, well-emulsified batter for your tart.
Mix Carefully: Avoid overmixing the brownie batter after adding flour; this helps maintain a fudgy texture ideal for your Cream Cheese Brownie Tart.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the tart while baking; overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so aim for a slight jiggle in the center.
Swirl with Precision: When dolloping the reserved brownie batter, use a gentle hand to create beautiful swirls. Over-mixing can muddy the lovely marble effect you want!
Cool Completely: Allow the tart to cool fully before slicing to ensure cleaner cuts and better presentation. A warm tart can be more challenging to serve.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different caramel types or even add chopped nuts to the brownie base for an extra crunch!

Cream Cheese Brownie Tart: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this delightful tart your own by exploring these creative variations that will elevate your dessert experience!

Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, allowing everyone to enjoy this chocolaty treat.
Using gluten-free flour doesn’t compromise the taste; it keeps the rich fudginess intact while making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter and dairy-free cream cheese for a completely dairy-free version.
This swap will still deliver that creamy texture, perfect for those avoiding dairy but still craving indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the brownie batter for added texture and flavor.
The nutty crunch pairs beautifully with the smooth cream cheese layer, adding delightful contrasts to each bite.
Flavor Boost: Swap regular vanilla extract for an espresso or almond extract to enhance the flavor profile.
These extracts bring an exciting twist, with espresso deepening the chocolate taste and almond adding a sweet nuttiness.
Homemade Caramel: Create your own luscious caramel sauce using sugar, butter, and cream to personalize your tart.
Homemade caramel adds a touch of love and warmth, delighting your guests with the extra effort that’s well worth it.
Extra Chocolate Chips: Stir in chocolate chips into the brownie batter for a gooey, chocolaty surprise with every slice.
The extra chocolate not only intensifies the flavor but also brings a melty richness that is hard to resist.
Seasonal Twist: Add seasonal fruits like raspberries or cherries to the cream cheese layer for a fruity surprise.
This fruity addition not only adds vibrant colors but also introduces a refreshing contrast to the rich brownie base.
Caramel Swirl Variations: Instead of traditional caramel, try using flavored sauces like chocolate or butterscotch for different flavor highlights.
This little twist can turn your tart into a unique creation that keeps it exciting every time you make it.

Experiment with these delicious variations and make this Cream Cheese Brownie Tart truly yours! And if you’re looking for more ways to satisfy your sweet tooth, don’t forget to check out my Cookies & Cream Cupcakes or the rich Philly Cheese Steak Sloppy Joes. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

What to Serve with Caramel Cream Cheese Brownie Tart

Imagine a cozy evening with friends, where each bite of a rich, creamy dessert transports you to chocolate heaven.

Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries like raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing contrast that enhances the tart’s sweetness, making each bite delightful. They also bring a pop of color to your plate.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the warmth of the tart, creating a heavenly combination that melts in your mouth. It’s like a classic sundae but elevated!
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies: These cookies introduce a delightful crunch along with a hint of mint, providing a fresh twist that complements the chocolate flavors of the tart beautifully.
Espresso: A bold shot of espresso can cut through the sweetness, enhancing the dessert’s richness while providing a warm, inviting experience. It’s a sophisticated pairing that feels like a café treat.
Caramel Drizzle and Sea Salt: Drizzling extra caramel sauce adds an indulgent touch, while a sprinkle of sea salt elevates the flavors, enhancing the tart’s happy balance of sweet and savory.
Chocolate Ganache Tart: For the ultimate chocolate lover, pairing a slice of rich chocolate ganache tart alongside your cream cheese brownie tart creates a chocolatey dream team on your dessert table.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a luxurious texture that elevates each bite, inviting you in for just one more slice. It’s a classic that never disappoints!
Chardonnay: The crisp, fruity notes of a chilled Chardonnay complement the rich flavors beautifully, providing a sophisticated sip alongside your indulgent dessert. It’s an elegant choice for a dinner party setup.

How to Store and Freeze Cream Cheese Brownie Tart

Fridge: Store your Cream Cheese Brownie Tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain its moisture and flavor while keeping it fresh for you to enjoy.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating: If you prefer your tart warm, gently reheat it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds just until warm, but be careful not to overheat as it may affect the cream cheese texture.

Serving Suggestion: For a delightful treat, serve chilled or at room temperature with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a dollop of whipped cream.

Make Ahead Options

These luscious Caramel Cream Cheese Brownie Tarts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the brownie base and the cream cheese layer separately up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the brownie layer and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. You can also prepare the cream cheese mixture, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and just before serving, dollop it onto the brownie base and bake. This ensures your tart remains just as delicious and fresh, effortlessly saving time on busy days while letting you impress with minimal effort!

Cream Cheese Brownie Tart Recipe FAQs

What kind of chocolate should I use for the Cream Cheese Brownie Tart?
I recommend using semi-sweet baking chocolate for a rich flavor, but if you’re looking for a unique twist, you can substitute Mexican chocolate. The latter offers a deeper flavor, which can enhance your dessert’s profile!

How long can I store the Cream Cheese Brownie Tart?
You can store your Cream Cheese Brownie Tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and flavorful. If you’re not going to finish it in that timeframe, consider freezing it!

Can I freeze the Cream Cheese Brownie Tart?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap your tart tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to serve!

What should I do if my brownie tart is too dry after baking?
If your tart turns out a bit dry, it’s likely due to overbaking. Be sure to watch it closely towards the end of the baking time. The center should still jiggle slightly when you remove it from the oven. If you’ve already baked it, consider serving it with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream to add moisture.

Are there any ingredients I should be cautious of if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes! For those with gluten sensitivities, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Also, if you have a dairy allergy, you might experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter, but ensure they have a similar texture for the cream cheese layer to set properly.

How can I tell if my cream cheese is at the right temperature?
Ideal cream cheese should be softened to room temperature, which you can achieve by letting it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes before using it. This ensures a smooth mix without lumps, essential for the creamy layer in your tart.