Indulge in a dessert that combines the best of both worlds with our Cheesecake Brownies. These decadent treats blend the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with a creamy, velvety cheesecake layer, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, these Cheesecake Brownies are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the 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
For the Cheesecake Layer:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 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 granulated sugar. Stir until well combined.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture, and mix until smooth.
Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until just combined.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Assemble the Brownies:
Pour about two-thirds of the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer.
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the brownie and cheesecake layers together for a marbled effect.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting.
Serve:
Once cooled, lift the brownies out of the baking dish using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve.
Serving Tips:
Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting. This helps the layers set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
Chill for Neater Cuts: For even cleaner cuts, refrigerate the brownies for about an hour before slicing. Chilling helps the brownies firm up and makes them easier to cut into neat squares.
Use a Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into squares. For best results, wipe the knife clean between cuts to prevent sticking.
Presentation: Serve brownies at room temperature or slightly warmed. You can add a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra flair.
Pairings: These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries also add a nice touch.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: Store Cheesecake Brownies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. They should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the brownies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other odors.
Freezing: To extend their shelf life, freeze Cheesecake Brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating: If you prefer your brownies warm, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
Avoid Overstacking: When storing brownies, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other to prevent them from sticking together. Use parchment paper between layers if necessary.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of cheese for the cheesecake layer?
While cream cheese is the traditional choice for the cheesecake layer due to its smooth texture and mild flavor, you can experiment with other soft cheeses like mascarpone for a slightly different taste. However, substituting cream cheese with other cheeses may affect the texture and consistency of the cheesecake layer.
Can I make these brownies in advance?
Yes, Cheesecake Brownies can be made in advance. Once baked and completely cooled, they can be stored at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
Can I use a different size pan for this recipe?
The recipe is designed for an 8×8 inch baking dish. If you use a different size pan, you may need to adjust the baking time. A larger pan will result in thinner brownies and may require less baking time, while a smaller pan will make thicker brownies and may need a bit more time. Keep an eye on them and use a toothpick to check for doneness.
How can I achieve a better swirl effect between the brownie and cheesecake layers?
To create a more pronounced swirl effect, drop spoonfuls of the brownie batter over the cheesecake layer, and then use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the two batters together. Be careful not to over-swirl, as this can cause the layers to blend together completely. Light, gentle swirling will give you a nice marbled appearance.
Conclusion:
Enjoy the perfect fusion of creamy cheesecake and rich brownies with this indulgent recipe. Ideal for any dessert lover, these Cheesecake Brownies are a must-try treat that will leave you craving more!
📖 Recipe:
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Cheesecake Brownies
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with these Cheesecake Brownies. This recipe marries rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy cheesecake layer, creating a decadent treat perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these Cheesecake Brownies are a must-try for dessert lovers looking for a delightful twist on classic brownies.
Ingredients
For the 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
For the Cheesecake Layer:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: In a medium bowl, mix melted butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth. Sift in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder; mix until just combined.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until creamy and well combined.
- Assemble the Brownies: Pour two-thirds of the brownie batter into the prepared dish. Spread cheesecake mixture evenly over brownie layer. Drop spoonfuls of remaining brownie batter over cheesecake, and swirl with a knife or toothpick.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely in the dish.
- Serve: Lift out using parchment paper, cut into squares, and enjoy.
Notes
Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
For a cleaner cut, refrigerate the brownies for an hour before slicing.
Use a sharp knife for best results, and wipe it between cuts if needed.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16 brownies
- Calories: 250 kcal per brownie
