Keto Cream Cheese Brownie Bars

If you’re a fan of rich, fudgy brownies but also want to stick to a keto lifestyle, then you’re in for a treat. These Keto Cream Cheese Brownie Bars combine the lusciousness of cream cheese with the deep, chocolatey goodness of brownies, creating a dessert that is not only satisfying but also low in carbs. Perfect for a quick snack or as a delightful end to your meal, these brownie bars will have everyone reaching for seconds.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe stands out because it merges two classic dessert elements: brownies and cream cheese. The cream cheese adds a creamy texture and a slight tang that perfectly balances the rich chocolate flavors. Additionally, using almond flour keeps the carbs low while providing a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate. The use of erythritol as a sweetener means you can indulge without worrying about sugar spikes. These Keto Cream Cheese Brownie Bars are not just keto-friendly; they are also perfect for those who want a delicious treat without the guilt.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you start baking, here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need:

• Fine almond flour – 1 cup (for a nut-free option, consider using this recipe for Vegan Brownies)
• Cocoa powder – 1/4 cup (Dutch cocoa for an extra rich flavor)
• Baking powder – 1 tsp
• Salt – 1/4 tsp (to enhance the flavors)
• Granulated erythritol – 2/3 cup (or regular sugar if not strictly keto)
• Melted coconut oil or butter – 1/3 cup (for a rich texture)
• Water or additional oil – 3 tbsp (to adjust consistency)
• Eggs – 2 (or 2 flax eggs for a vegan version)
• Cream cheese – 8 oz (or vegan cream cheese)
• Yogurt or coconut cream – 2/3 cup (for moisture and creaminess)
• Erythritol – 1/4 cup (or sugar/maple syrup for non-keto)
• Almond flour – 1 1/2 tbsp (to thicken the cream cheese layer)

Setup & Equipment

Before diving into the baking process, gather the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
• Whisk – to blend ingredients smoothly
• Spatula – for scraping the sides of the bowl
• 9×9 inch baking pan – for baking the brownie bars
• Parchment paper – to line the baking pan for easy removal
• Oven – preheated to 350°F (175°C)

Mastering Keto Cream Cheese Brownie Bars: How-To

Follow these steps to create your Keto Cream Cheese Brownie Bars:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownie bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This will keep your brownies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of fine almond flour, 1/4 cup of cocoa powder, 1 tsp of baking powder, and 1/4 tsp of salt. Whisk together until well mixed.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2/3 cup of granulated erythritol and 1/3 cup of melted coconut oil (or butter). Add in the 3 tbsp of water (or additional oil) and mix until combined. Then, crack in the 2 eggs (or flax eggs) and mix again until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and mix until fully combined. The batter should be thick and fudgy.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In another bowl, beat together 8 oz of cream cheese (or vegan cream cheese) with 2/3 cup of yogurt (or coconut cream) and 1/4 cup of erythritol (or sugar/maple syrup). Mix until smooth and creamy. Stir in 1 1/2 tbsp of almond flour to thicken it slightly.

Step 7: Layer the Brownie Batter

Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth it evenly across the bottom.

Step 8: Add the Cream Cheese Layer

Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer, spreading it evenly.

Step 9: Top It Off

Dollop the remaining brownie batter over the cream cheese layer and swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.

Step 10: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Step 11: Cool the Brownies

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift out the brownies using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Quick Replacement Ideas

If you’re missing an ingredient or prefer alternatives, here are some quick replacement ideas:

• For almond flour, use sunflower seed flour for a nut-free option.
• Replace coconut oil with unsalted butter or ghee if you prefer.
• Use Greek yogurt in place of regular yogurt for added protein.
• Substitute erythritol with monk fruit sweetener for a different low-carb option.

Errors to Dodge

When making your Keto Cream Cheese Brownie Bars, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Overmixing the brownie batter can result in a denser texture.
• Baking for too long may dry out the brownies; monitor closely.
• Not letting the brownies cool completely before slicing can lead to messy bars.
• Using too much cream cheese can overwhelm the brownie flavor; stick to the recommended amount.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

To keep your Keto Cream Cheese Brownie Bars fresh and delicious:

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
• To rewarm, simply microwave a bar for 10-15 seconds or enjoy it cold.

Questions People Ask

Can I use a different sweetener instead of erythritol?

Yes, you can use other sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, but make sure to adjust the quantities according to their sweetness levels.

How can I make these brownies vegan?

To make these Keto Cream Cheese Brownie Bars vegan, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese.

What is the best way to cut these brownie bars?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it with a damp cloth between cuts. This will help prevent sticking and crumbling.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to add sugar-free chocolate chips or nuts to the brownie batter for extra texture and flavor.

Try These Next

If you loved making Keto Cream Cheese Brownie Bars, you might also enjoy these recipes:

• Keto Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Keto Pumpkin Bread
• Keto Coconut Macaroons
• Keto Cheesecake

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! These Keto Cream Cheese Brownie Bars will surely become a favorite in your household. With their rich flavor and creamy texture, they are the perfect treat for anyone following a keto diet or simply looking for a delicious dessert. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!