Why I Love This Recipe
I love how easy these Halloween brownies are to make, especially since they start with a box mix. That shortcut lets me focus on the fun part—the orange and white cream cheese swirl. It’s such a simple addition, but it completely transforms the brownies into something festive and eye-catching. They’re rich, moist, and full of that deep chocolate flavor I crave, with the tangy swirl adding just the right contrast. Plus, they look amazing on a party platter, especially topped with Halloween sprinkles.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Orange food coloring
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Halloween sprinkles, for decoration
Directions
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I preheat the oven to the temperature specified on the brownie mix box and prepare the baking pan as directed.
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I make the brownie batter according to the instructions on the box and pour it into the prepared pan.
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In a separate bowl, I beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
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I add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the cream cheese mixture is well combined.
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I divide the cream cheese mixture in half and tint one half with orange food coloring, stirring until it’s evenly colored.
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I drop spoonfuls of both the white and orange cream cheese mixtures over the brownie batter.
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Using a knife or skewer, I swirl the cream cheese into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
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I bake the brownies according to the time listed on the brownie mix box, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs.
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I let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
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Just before serving, I top them with festive Halloween sprinkles for a finishing touch.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 16 brownies
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
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Total Time: 45–50 minutes
Variations
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Use homemade brownie batter: When I want more control over the flavor, I swap the box mix for my favorite from-scratch brownie recipe.
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Different colors: I switch out the orange food coloring for purple or green to fit other spooky themes.
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Add-ins: I like to stir chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or crushed Halloween candy into the brownie batter for extra texture.
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Frosted version: I sometimes top cooled brownies with a thin layer of chocolate ganache for even more indulgence.
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Mini brownie bites: I bake the batter in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If I want to enjoy them warm, I pop a square into the microwave for about 10 seconds to bring back that gooey texture. For longer storage, I freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They thaw beautifully at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, I often bake them a day in advance. Once cooled, I keep them tightly covered so they stay moist and fresh until serving time.
Do I need to use full-fat cream cheese?
I always get the best results with full-fat cream cheese—it gives the swirl a rich, smooth texture that doesn’t crack or dry out during baking.
Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?
Absolutely. Gel food coloring gives more vibrant color with less liquid, which I like because it doesn’t affect the texture of the cream cheese swirl.
How do I get perfect swirl patterns?
I use a skewer or butter knife to gently swirl the colors together in a figure-eight motion, being careful not to overmix so the colors stay distinct.
What’s the best way to cut clean brownie squares?
I let the brownies cool completely, then use a plastic knife or a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. That way, I get neat edges without smearing the swirl.
Conclusion
These Holiday Brownies with a wicked swirl are everything I love in a Halloween dessert: easy, eye-catching, and ridiculously delicious. Whether I’m baking them for a school party, a spooky movie night, or just to treat myself, they always deliver big flavor and festive vibes. The cream cheese swirl adds a hauntingly beautiful touch—and the best part? They come together fast with minimal effort. A Halloween must-bake for sure.
Print
Holiday Brownies: Unbelievably Wicked Swirl in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 45–50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These fudgy Halloween brownies with a wicked cream cheese swirl are ready fast and perfect for spooky celebrations. Just add Halloween sprinkles and share the magic!
Ingredients
1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Orange food coloring
Halloween sprinkles, for decoration
Instructions
Preheat oven to temperature indicated on the brownie mix box and prepare your baking pan as directed.
Prepare brownie batter according to package instructions.
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
Add egg and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and beat until fully combined.
Divide the cream cheese mixture evenly between two bowls.
Tint one half with orange food coloring and mix until the color is uniform.
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan.
Drop spoonfuls of both the plain and orange cream cheese mixtures over the brownie batter.
Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter to create a marbled effect.
Bake according to the brownie mix instructions, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Let brownies cool completely in the pan.
Once cooled, cut into squares and top with Halloween sprinkles before serving.
Notes
For the creamiest swirl, use full-fat cream cheese.
Don’t overbake! You want your brownies to be rich and fudgy, not cakey.
Swirl with a light hand to keep the colors defined.
Customize with different colors or themed sprinkles for other holidays.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
