Cheesecake Brownies: Easy & Delicious Recipe

Craving the Ultimate Dessert? Try These Cheesecake Brownies!

Imagine sinking your teeth into a rich, fudgy brownie, only to discover a luscious layer of creamy cheesecake swirled throughout. Sound heavenly? These Cheesecake Brownies are exactly that—an irresistible combination of textures and flavors that’s surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this showstopper dessert!

Why You’ll Love It

• The perfect marriage of fudgy brownie and creamy cheesecake in every bite.
• Impressively delicious yet simple to prepare – great for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
• They can be made ahead, making them ideal for parties or potlucks.
• Easily customizable with different flavors of cheesecake and brownie variations.
• A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both decadent and comforting.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This isn’t your average brownie recipe; the swirl technique used to incorporate the cheesecake layer is what sets it apart. Instead of just layering cheesecake on top, we’re creating beautiful, marbled patterns that are both visually stunning and flavorfully balanced. This method ensures each bite is a perfect blend of chocolate and cream cheese heaven.

Ingredient List

• For the Brownie Layer:
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (This provides the deep, chocolatey flavor!)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
• For the Cheesecake Layer:
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (The key to the smooth, creamy texture!)
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. Make the Brownie Batter: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Remove from the heat and stir in the granulated and brown sugars until combined. Let the mixture cool slightly. Whisk in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the sugar and mix until combined. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Assemble and Swirl: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Dollop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter. Then pour the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake mixture. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the cheesecake mixture into the brownie batter to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to over-swirl.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
6. Cool: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Elevate your cheesecake brownies with these delicious toppings!

• Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle a simple chocolate ganache over the cooled brownies for an extra layer of decadence. Mix ½ cup heavy cream and ½ cup chocolate chips; melt in microwave and stir until smooth.
• Sprinkles: Add festive sprinkles to the top before baking for a colorful touch.
• Nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add a delightful crunch to the brownies.

Expert Tips

• Use room temperature cream cheese to ensure a smooth cheesecake batter without lumps.
• Don’t overbake the brownies; they should still be slightly fudgy in the center.
• Let the brownies cool completely before cutting; this will help them set and prevent a messy cut.
• Use parchment paper to line the pan with an overhang; this makes removing the brownies easier.
• When swirling, go gently and avoid overmixing to maintain distinct layers and patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use a different type of flour?
  

  While all-purpose flour works best, you can substitute it with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version. Results may slightly vary in texture.

• Can I substitute the cream cheese?
  

  Yes, you can use neufchatel cheese as a lower fat alternative, but be aware that the texture will be slightly different.

• How should I store these brownies?
  

  Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

• Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
  

  Yes, the brownies can be made a day ahead. Simply store them, well covered, at room temperature or in the fridge.

• Can I freeze these brownies?
  

  Absolutely! Let the brownies cool completely, then cut into squares and wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to switch things up? Try these variations!

• Peanut Butter Swirl: Add dollops of peanut butter to the top of the cheesecake layer and swirl with the knife.
• Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of mint extract to the brownie batter and use mint chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips.
• Oreo Cheesecake Brownies: Place a few oreo cookies on top of the brownie batter, before baking, or mix crushed oreo into the cheesecake batter.
• Raspberry Swirl: Use raspberry jam, dolloping on top of the cream cheese layer, before swirling.

Serving Suggestions

These cheesecake brownies are delicious on their own, but for an extra touch, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They also pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. For a more formal setting, arrange them on a platter with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Conclusion

These Cheesecake Brownies are the perfect treat for any occasion. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and sure to impress everyone who tries them. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and bake up a batch of these irresistible goodies today! We’d love to see your creations – share your photos with us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes!