Indulge in these rich, fudgy brownies that are elevated with a creamy swirl of avocado-based vegan cream cheese. This unexpected twist adds a luscious texture and a subtle hint of flavor, making these brownies a standout dessert!

Ingredients

  • For the Brownies:
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1/2 tsp baking powder
    • 1/4 tsp salt
    • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
    • 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • 1/4 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • For the Avocado Cream Cheese Swirl:
    • 1 ripe avocado
    • 1/4 cup vegan cream cheese
    • 2 tbsp maple syrup
    • 1 tbsp lemon juice
    • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure there are no lumps.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and almond milk until smooth. Add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies fudgy.

In another bowl, prepare the avocado cream cheese mixture. Mash the ripe avocado until smooth, then add the vegan cream cheese, maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Blend everything together until creamy and well combined.

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the avocado cream cheese mixture on top of the brownie batter. Use a knife or a toothpick to swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter for a marbled effect.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares and enjoy the delicious fusion of chocolate and creamy avocado goodness!

These decadent vegan cream cheese brownies are perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days (if they last that long!).