Chocolatey Fruit Brownie (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Brownie Layer

01 - 1 box (18-ounce) of brownie mix (and ingredients like eggs, water, and oil as directed on the package)
02 - Nonstick spray or parchment sheet

→ Creamy Cheese Topping

03 - 8 ounces of softened cream cheese
04 - 1/2 cup confectioner's sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon of vanilla essence

→ Fruit Decoration

06 - A variety of fresh fruits such as raspberries, grapes, strawberries, kiwi, and blueberries, sliced and cleaned
07 - 1/4 cup melted fruit jelly or apricot preserves for optional shine
08 - Fresh mint sprigs as optional garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Set your oven temperature as per the brownie box instructions. Follow the package steps to prepare the batter. Coat a round pizza pan or baking tray lightly with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper. Spread the batter evenly, shaping it into a round or square base.
02 - Place the tray in the oven and bake following the brownie mix instructions, usually for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let it cool on a cooling rack afterward.
03 - Grab a bowl and beat the cream cheese until it’s smooth. Toss in the vanilla and powdered sugar, and continue mixing until the frosting gets light and fluffy. Set it aside for later.
04 - After the brownie has fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Leave a bit of space around the edges for a border.
05 - Arrange the fruit slices however you’d like on the frosted brownie, covering as much or as little as you prefer.
06 - For a shiny finish, brush some warm melted fruit preserves gently over the fruit layer. This step is totally up to you.
07 - Pop the dessert into the fridge for at least an hour to let the frosting firm up. If you’d like, add mint on top before slicing into pieces. Best served chilled.

# Notes:

01 - Stick with a store mix if you’re short on time, or go with homemade brownie dough for a more personal touch.
02 - Play around with fruit choices and patterns to make your dessert a real head-turner.
03 - For something lighter, swap cream cheese frosting for whipped cream or even thick Greek yogurt.