Indulge your sweet tooth with a treat that’s the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts: cheesecake and brownies. Cheesecake brownies are a delightful combination of rich, fudgy brownies swirled with creamy, tangy cheesecake. This recipe is an ideal choice for those who crave a dessert that’s both decadent and easy to make. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a sweet treat at home, these cheesecake brownies are sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Brownie Batter:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Mix in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until smooth. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
3. Make the Cheesecake Layer:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla extract and continue to beat until well combined.
4. Assemble the Cheesecake Brownies:
Dollop the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cheesecake mixture into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.
5. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. The cheesecake layer should be set and the edges of the brownies slightly pulled away from the sides of the pan.
6. Cool and Serve:
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve.
Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Brownies
- Softening Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Swirling Technique: To get a beautiful swirl pattern, gently drag a knife or toothpick through both the brownie and cheesecake layers without over-mixing.
- Cooling Time: Allowing the brownies to cool
Cheesecake Brownies Recipe: The Perfect Fusion of Decadence and Creaminess
Are you craving a dessert that’s both indulgent and irresistible? Look no further than these Cheesecake Brownies! Combining the rich flavors of classic brownies with the creamy texture of cheesecake, this recipe is a surefire way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these Cheesecake Brownies are sure to impress. Read on for a detailed recipe, tips, and why this treat deserves a spot in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients:
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Brownie Batter:
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Beat in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined and smooth.
- Assemble the Brownies:
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
- Spoon dollops of the cheesecake batter over the brownie batter.
- Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cheesecake batter into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The cheesecake layer should be set but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Cheesecake Brownies:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that both the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth and lump-free cheesecake layer.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the brownie ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid dense brownies.
- Swirling Technique: For a beautiful marble effect, use a light hand when swirling the cheesecake batter into the brownie batter.
Why You’ll Love These Cheesecake Brownies:
1. Irresistible Combination: The rich, fudgy brownie base paired with the creamy, tangy cheesecake creates a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant.
2. Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a festive celebration. They’re also a great make-ahead treat for busy days.
3. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these Cheesecake Brownies in no time.
4. A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or guests, these brownies are sure to be a hit. The creamy cheesecake swirl adds a touch of sophistication to a classic treat.
5. Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit for a personalized twist.
1. Can I use a different type of cheese for the cheesecake layer?
For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to use cream cheese in this recipe. However, you can experiment with other types of cheese like mascarpone or ricotta for a slightly different taste. Just ensure that the cheese you choose is smooth and creamy to achieve the right consistency.
2. How do I store leftover Cheesecake Brownies?
Store leftover Cheesecake Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
3. Can I make these Cheesecake Brownies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these brownies ahead of time. They actually taste great after a day or two as the flavors meld together. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator, and they’ll be ready to enjoy when you are.
4. How can I make my Cheesecake Brownies even more decadent?
To enhance the flavor of your Cheesecake Brownies, consider adding chocolate chips or chunks to the brownie batter for extra richness. You can also drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the top for an indulgent finish. For added texture, try sprinkling some crushed nuts or toffee bits on top before baking.