Zebra Brownies

Zebra Brownies will certainly be in our picnic basket tomorrow. It's my most requested treat; I could probably whip up a batch in my sleep because I' ve made them so many times. Here is the recipe:

One package of brownie mix (20 oz.)
8 oz. pkg. of cream cheese, softened
1/3 c. sugar
1 egg
1/2 t. vanilla
1/2 c. semisweet chocolate chips

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare brownie mix as directed on the package (cake-like option). Pour most of the batter into a greased 13-by-9-inch baking pan, but reserve a little of the batter for the topping.

Next, beat the cream cheese and sugar in small bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended. Add the egg and vanilla and beat well. Pour the cheese mixture over brownie mixture. Top with dollops of the remaining brownie batter that has been reserved. Cut through the batter with a knife for a marbled effect.

Sprinkle with chips. Bake 35 minutes or until cream cheese mixture is lightly browned.

Makes 18 servings.

***Here is my best brownie tip. Use a plastic knife to cut the brownies. The knife will glide right through without gunking up like a metal knife will.

Enjoy!