February 10: National Cream Cheese Brownie and Umbrella Day

Now, before you think that I have way too much free time and that all I ever do is bake, I would like you to know that I have a part-time job and operate my own business on Etsy. That being said, today I made my cream cheese brownies using a mix out of a box. I did however, make my own cream cheese topping and add it to the brownies.

Ingredients:
1 box of brownie mix and the accompanying ingredients (mine required oil, eggs, and water)

I decided to make mine low fat so I substituted the oil for the same amount of applesauce. My box mix required one egg so I used two egg whites instead. I also added in 1 tablespoon of instant espresso so that my brownies had a hint of a coffee taste to them.

 

I sprinkled a few extra chocolate chips on top because why not?

 Note: This is Willie. He likes to celebrate Christmas year around which is why there is a stocking hanging out of his mouth. He was the helper of the day.


Cream Cheese Topping:
4 oz. cream cheese
1 egg
3 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla

Beat together until smooth.

Pour 3/4 of the brownie mixture into the pan and top with the cream cheese mixture. Add the remaining brownie mix on top and using a toothpick swirl to get a nice white/brown design.

Bake according to your brownie box directions.

And the finished result! I actually think they look prettier before baking, but they still tasted delicious. I gave one to a friend, Sally. She is supposed to eat it and leave a comment letting everyone know how it was. Let's see if she does!

Today is also National Umbrella Day.

Note: It was not raining in my house. I also do not usually wear a raincoat or rainboots in the house.