Black cake with vanilla cream cheese and berries

Brownie with vanilla cream cheese and berries

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

In a world full of sophisticated desserts, sometimes the simplest recipes turn into the most delicious experiences. This brownie with vanilla cream cheese and berries is a perfect example. It is a dessert that combines the moist and rich texture of the brownie with a smooth cheese cream, enveloped in sweet and slightly tangy berry flavors.

The history of this recipe is based on the classic combination of chocolate and cheese, which has been reinvented over time, becoming a favorite among sweet lovers. Additionally, the berries not only add an attractive visual aspect but also a boost of vitamins and antioxidants. Let's begin the culinary journey!

Necessary ingredients:

For the brownie:
- 5 eggs
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- 5 tablespoons of flour
- 3 tablespoons of cocoa
- 250 g of high-quality dark chocolate
- 50 ml of Amaretto (or another preferred liqueur)
- 100 g of fresh blueberries
- 40 g of unsalted butter
- a pinch of baking powder

For the cream cheese:
- 400 g of cottage cheese (or mascarpone for a creamier texture)
- 100 ml of milk
- 100 ml of yogurt
- 150 g of sugar
- seeds from one vanilla pod (or a packet of vanilla sugar)
- 1 packet of gelatin (10 g)
- 600 g of berries (raspberries, blueberries, blackberries)

Preparing the brownie:

1. Preparing the berries: Start by washing the berries well. If you are using frozen berries, let them thaw and drain. This step is essential to avoid excessive moisture in the final dessert.

2. Melting the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, add the chocolate cut into small pieces and the diced butter. Place the bowl over a pot of hot water (bain-marie method) and stir until the chocolate and butter melt and combine evenly. Let it cool slightly.

3. Beating the eggs: In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until foamy. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you achieve a shiny meringue. This step will give the brownie an airy texture.

4. Combining the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour, cocoa, and baking powder. Gently fold the flour mixture into the meringue, being careful not to lose the air in the composition.

5. Adding the chocolate: Incorporate the melted chocolate and Amaretto into the flour mixture, stirring gently until combined.

6. Finalizing the composition: Add the washed and drained blueberries, mixing gently. They will create a delicious contrast in the brownie.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a rectangular baking dish with butter and line it with parchment paper. Pour the brownie mixture into the dish and level it. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly in the dish.

Preparing the cream cheese:

1. Hydrating the gelatin: In a glass, put 50 ml of water and add the gelatin. Let it hydrate for 5-10 minutes.

2. Making the cream: In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese with yogurt, milk, and sugar. Use a blender to obtain a smooth cream. Add the vanilla and mix again.

3. Incorporating the gelatin: Heat the gelatin in the microwave for a few seconds until it becomes liquid. Add the gelatin to the cream cheese and mix well.

4. Assembling: After the brownie has cooled, pour the cream cheese over it in the same dish. Sprinkle the blueberries and refrigerate for a few hours, preferably overnight, to set.

5. Finishing: Before serving, sprinkle raspberries and blackberries over the cream cheese. Leave in the fridge for another hour for the flavors to combine perfectly.

Serving suggestions:

For an extra touch of elegance, you can decorate each serving with a berry sauce or a fresh mint leaf. This dessert pairs wonderfully with a glass of sweet wine or a flavored fruit tea.

Tips and useful advice:

- Use high-quality chocolate for an intense flavor.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese. For example, mascarpone will make the cream richer and creamier.
- If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of sugar in the cream.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start preparing.

Nutritional benefits:

This dessert is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the berries which are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Cottage cheese provides essential proteins, and dark chocolate offers cardiovascular benefits when consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits instead of berries?
Yes, you can experiment with peaches, apples, or bananas, but the berries add a pleasant acidity that perfectly complements the sweetness of the brownie.

2. How can I make the dessert healthier?
You can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, and you can replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour.

3. Is it possible to prepare the dessert without alcohol?
Sure, you can omit the Amaretto or replace it with almond or vanilla extract.

In conclusion, this brownie with vanilla cream cheese and berries is an easy-to-make dessert but impressive in taste and appearance. I warmly recommend it for any occasion, from festive meals to a simple treat for yourself and your loved ones. Prepare it with love and enjoy every slice!