If you have a soft spot for rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake, then you are in for a real treat with this heavenly Cheesecake Brownies Recipe. Combining the intense fudgy goodness of classic brownies with the tangy smoothness of cheesecake, these squares are an irresistible dessert that practically melt in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving a decadent snack, this recipe brings the best of both worlds together in perfect harmony. The swirled, marbled look is just as delightful as the taste, making these brownies the star of any gathering or a special indulgence just for yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the balance right in our Cheesecake Brownies Recipe depends on simple, high-quality ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the richness of butter and cream cheese, to the deep chocolate flavor of cocoa powder, every component enhances the texture, taste, and appearance of this dessert.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds a luscious, moist texture and rich buttery flavor to the brownie base.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter, balancing the cocoa’s bittersweet notes perfectly.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and help bind the brownie ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings depth and a warm aroma to the batter.
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the brownies their signature chocolatey color and bold taste.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Ensures the brownies hold their shape without being too cakey.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the brownies rise slightly for a tender crumb.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake layer, providing that smooth, tangy creaminess.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake topping to contrast the rich chocolate.
- 1 large egg: Gives the cheesecake layer just enough structure to hold its form.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Complements the cream cheese with a gentle vanilla flavor.
How to Make Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready to bake the brownies evenly. Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to make it easy to lift the brownies out once they’re baked. If you don’t have parchment paper, a light greasing will work just fine.
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Layer
In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1 cup of sugar until well combined and smooth. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract. Sifting in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder is key here — it helps avoid lumps and creates a beautifully smooth batter. Fold everything together gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can make brownies tough.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until silky smooth and free of lumps. Add the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, the egg, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until the mixture is creamy and evenly combined, making the perfect tangy layer to balance the rich chocolate underneath.
Step 4: Assemble the Brownies
Pour about two-thirds of the brownie batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Gently dollop the cheesecake mixture on top, smoothing it evenly across the batter. Now, drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the chocolate and cheesecake layers together in a pretty marbled pattern. This step creates that irresistible visual and flavor contrast you’ll love.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Bake in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know the brownies are done when a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached but not wet batter. This ensures they stay fudgy and soft, not dry. Once baked, allow the brownies to cool completely in the dish — patience here makes slicing much easier and prevents the layers from melding together too much.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully lift the brownies out using the edges of the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve. The creamy cheesecake contrasts beautifully with the dense, chocolatey brownie, making each bite a delightful treat.
How to Serve Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can elevate your cheesecake brownies to dessert-table stardom. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream add a refreshing pop that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the classic choice and never disappoints. For a slightly different pairing, try coffee-flavored ice cream or fresh fruit salad to keep things light and bright alongside these indulgent treats.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider serving your Cheesecake Brownies Recipe as bite-sized squares on a decorative platter or arrange them in a layered dessert trifle with whipped cream and raspberries. You can also place individual brownies in cupcake liners for easy grabbing and sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store cheesecake brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. After that, refrigeration is best to keep the cheesecake layer fresh, lasting up to five days.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
Reheating
Warm individual squares in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds if you like them slightly warmed. Be careful not to overheat, or the cheesecake layer might lose its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
While you can substitute low-fat cream cheese, the texture and richness of the cheesecake layer may be less creamy and slightly more dense. For best results, use full-fat cream cheese.
What if I don’t have an 8×8 inch pan?
An 8×8 inch baking dish is recommended for thickness and even baking, but if you have a 9×9 inch pan, the brownies will be thinner and bake slightly faster — start checking a few minutes earlier.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the brownie batter before baking adds a nice crunch and extra flavor dimension to your Cheesecake Brownies Recipe.
How do I tell when the brownies are perfectly baked?
The brownies should have set edges and a slightly soft center. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. This keeps them fudgy and irresistibly gooey without being raw.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
To make vegan or dairy-free cheesecake brownies, substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives, use vegan cream cheese, and replace eggs with flax eggs or commercial egg replacers. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the way chocolaty brownie and creamy cheesecake come together in this Cheesecake Brownies Recipe. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for a fun and satisfying dessert to wow family and friends, these brownies deliver on both flavor and charm. I can’t wait for you to try them and experience the perfect marriage of two favorite desserts in every bite!
Print
Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in rich, fudgy cheesecake brownies that combine the deep chocolate flavor of classic brownies with a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer. These decadent treats are perfect for dessert lovers craving a luscious twist on traditional brownies, combining moist cocoa-infused cake with swirls of smooth cream cheese in every bite.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 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
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking. Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter and 1 cup of sugar until well mixed. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth. Sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, gently folding to just combine without overmixing.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add 1/4 cup sugar, one large egg, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; mix thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and silky.
- Assemble the Brownies: Pour about two-thirds of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over this brownie layer. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer, then use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the two batters together for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Once baked, remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the dish.
- Serve: Use the parchment paper to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into 16 squares and serve. These brownies are delicious served at room temperature or chilled.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Do not overmix the brownie batter once the flour is added to maintain a tender crumb.
- Swirling the cheesecake and brownie batters creates a visually appealing marbled pattern—take your time with this step.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These brownies can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
