Irresistible Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Introduction
Cheesecake brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic chocolate brownies with the creamy, tangy smoothness of cheesecake. This irresistible treat is perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings while adding a delightful twist that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Choose high-quality for best results.)
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Balances the richness of cocoa and cream cheese.)
- 2 Large Eggs (Use fresh ones for optimal texture.)
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Essential for the perfect bite.)
- 1/2 cup Melted Unsalted Butter (Don’t skip this for creamy brownies.)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances and deepens the overall flavors.)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (Opt for full-fat to maximize creaminess.)
- 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar (Creates a delightful creamy texture.)
- 1 cup Chocolate Chips (For extra chocolate flavor.)
- 1 cup Nuts (Add crushed walnuts or pecans for crunch.)
- 1/2 cup Peanut Butter (Swirl in for a nutty upgrade.)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth and glossy.
- Step 3: Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder and all-purpose flour. Gently stir until just combined to maintain that fudgy texture.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Step 5: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture over it, then add the remaining brownie batter on top. Use a knife to swirl the layers together.
- Step 6: Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check using a toothpick—it should come out slightly moist but not wet.
- Step 7: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares for neat portions.
Tips & Variations
- For a nutty upgrade, swirl in the peanut butter gently along with the cheesecake layer before swirling the brownie batter.
- Use crushed walnuts or pecans in place of nuts for a different texture and flavor.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the brownies fudgy.
- Try using bittersweet chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.
Storage
Store cheesecake brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a soft, warm treat.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?
While you can use low-fat cream cheese, the texture will be less creamy and rich. Full-fat cream cheese yields the best taste and smoothness.
How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from sinking?
Make sure the cheesecake mixture is smooth and slightly thick before adding it to the brownie batter. Gently swirl rather than mix the layers too much to keep the swirls distinct and prevent sinking.
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Irresistible Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies (8×8 inch pan, cut into 4x4 grid) 1x
Description
These Irresistible Cheesecake Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownie layers with a creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl, creating a decadent dessert that’s both visually stunning and delicious. Perfectly balanced with bittersweet cocoa, smooth cream cheese, and a hint of vanilla, these brownies bake to a moist, luscious texture that delights every chocolate lover.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 2 Large Eggs
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1/2 cup Melted Unsalted Butter
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 cup Chocolate Chips
- 1 cup Nuts (crushed walnuts or pecans)
- 1/2 cup Peanut Butter
Cheesecake Swirl
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (full-fat)
- 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Prepare brownie batter base: In a large bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until well combined and smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until the batter is glossy.
- Add dry ingredients: Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder and all-purpose flour to the wet mixture. Gently stir using a spatula until just combined to preserve a fudgy texture without overmixing.
- Prepare cheesecake swirl: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, creating a creamy texture.
- Assemble layers: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture evenly over the batter. Add the remaining brownie batter on top and gently swirl the layers together using a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle chocolate chips, chopped nuts, and drop peanut butter in small dollops on top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Test doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to firm up before slicing into squares. This ensures clean cuts and maintains the creamy cheesecake swirls.
Notes
- Use high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the richest chocolate flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to keep brownies fudgy.
- Full-fat cream cheese yields the creamiest cheesecake swirl.
- Allow brownies to cool fully before slicing to avoid crumbling.
- Optional: substitute nuts with your favorite mix-ins like dried fruit or seeds.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cheesecake brownies, chocolate brownies, fudgy brownies, cream cheese swirl, chocolate dessert, easy brownies, homemade brownies
