Chocolate Layered Brownie Delight is a decadent dessert featuring rich, fudgy brownie layers topped with creamy frosting or ganache and a luscious glaze or topping. This treat combines textures and flavors that chocolate lovers dream of, making it a showstopping addition to any dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert delivers everything you want in a chocolate treat—moist brownie layers, silky cream or ganache, and a sweet, glossy topping. It is incredibly indulgent yet easy to make, and perfect for gatherings, holidays, or any occasion that calls for something extraordinary.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the brownie base:
- Unsalted butter
- Semi-sweet chocolate (chopped or chips)
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Salt
For the creamy layer:
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Powdered sugar
- Heavy cream or milk
- Vanilla extract
For the topping/glaze:
- Chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- Heavy cream
- Optional: crushed cookies, sprinkles, or chocolate shavings
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Melt butter and chocolate together in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in sugar.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Let cool completely.
- For the creamy layer, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream. Beat until fluffy.
- Spread the cream mixture evenly over the cooled brownie base.
- For the glaze, heat cream until just simmering, pour over chocolate, let sit, then stir until smooth.
- Pour glaze over the top and gently spread. Optionally, top with cookie crumbs or chocolate pieces.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 12–16 squares
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Bake time: 30 minutes
- Chill time: 1 hour
- Total time: about 2 hours
Variations
- Peanut butter twist: Add a layer of peanut butter between the brownie and cream layers.
- Mint chocolate: Mix peppermint extract into the cream layer and top with crushed mint candies.
- Nutty version: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter.
- Fruit infusion: Add a layer of raspberry or cherry jam beneath the cream layer.
Storage/reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These brownies are best served chilled or at room temperature. Freezing is also an option—freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a boxed brownie mix?
Yes, for convenience you can use a boxed mix for the base and follow the remaining steps as directed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. This dessert actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.
What chocolate is best for the ganache?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate is recommended for a balanced sweetness.
Can I use whipped topping instead of the cream layer?
Yes, though the texture and richness will be slightly lighter.
How do I slice these neatly?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts for clean slices.
Can I omit the cream cheese?
You can substitute with a whipped chocolate mousse or buttercream if preferred.
Is this dessert freezer-friendly?
Yes, wrap slices individually and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
What pan size works best?
A 9×13-inch pan is standard, but you can adjust thickness by using a smaller or larger pan.
Can I add coffee to enhance flavor?
Yes, a tablespoon of brewed espresso or instant coffee intensifies the chocolate taste.
What toppings go well?
Chopped nuts, chocolate curls, sea salt flakes, or caramel drizzle all add a great finish.
Conclusion
Chocolate Layered Brownie Delight is the ultimate indulgence for any dessert lover. With its rich brownie foundation, velvety cream layer, and glossy chocolate topping, it offers a luxurious and satisfying bite every time. Whether for a special event or just a chocolate craving, this dessert never disappoints.
PrintChocolate Layered Brownie Delight
Chocolate Layered Brownie Delight is a decadent dessert made with fudgy brownie layers, a creamy middle layer, and a smooth ganache topping. It’s a showstopper for any chocolate lover.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12–16 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- For the brownie base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped or chips
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- For the creamy layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the topping/glaze:
- 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Optional: crushed cookies, sprinkles, or chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
- Melt butter and chocolate in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and mix in sugar.
- Whisk in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
- Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until just combined.
- Spread batter in prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. Let cool completely.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Spread cream mixture evenly over cooled brownies.
- Heat cream for the glaze until just simmering, then pour over chocolate. Let sit 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Pour glaze over cream layer and spread gently. Top with desired toppings.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Add peanut butter or fruit preserves between the layers for extra flavor.
- Use dark chocolate for a more intense ganache.
- Slice with a warm, clean knife for neat edges.
- Store chilled for firmer layers and clean presentation.
- Customize the topping with nuts, candy, or sea salt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg