Name: Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick); 8 oz semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 Milky Way candy bars, chopped into bite-sized pieces; 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for a smoother caramel)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re a fan of indulgent treats that combine rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and gooey caramel, then you absolutely must try these Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies. They bring together the decadent flavors of a classic brownie with a luscious cheesecake layer, studded with chunks of Milky Way candy bars and swirled with velvety caramel. Every bite is a delightful adventure in texture and taste, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth craving or impressing guests at your next gathering.

Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of fudgy brownie, creamy cheesecake, and gooey caramel. From the rich chocolate to the soft cream cheese and those star Milky Way bars, every component contributes to making these brownies utterly irresistible.

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick): Adds richness and helps melt the chocolate for a smooth brownie base.
8 oz semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped: Provides deep, intense chocolate flavor essential for fudgy brownies.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownie layer while keeping the texture just right.
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note to the brownie.
3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and create structure for the brownies.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors wonderfully.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Gives the brownies just enough body without being cakey.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies chocolate flavor.
1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the brownie base rise slightly to a lovely fudgy texture.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake layer, adding creamy tang and smoothness.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling perfectly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and complexity to the cheesecake filling.
1 large egg: Ensures the cheesecake layer sets just right.
1/4 cup sour cream: Keeps the cheesecake silky and light.
2 Milky Way candy bars, chopped into bite-sized pieces: Bursts of caramel and nougat for that iconic Milky Way flavor distributed throughout.
1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade): Creates luscious swirls and extra gooeyness on top.
1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for a smoother caramel): Makes the caramel sauce extra silky and spreadable.

How to Make Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Preparing the Brownie Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or cooking spray for easy removal later. Melt the butter and chopped chocolate slowly over medium heat, stirring to ensure a smooth mix. Once melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly so it doesn’t scramble the eggs. In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined. Add the melted chocolate mixture and stir to combine, then sift in the flour, salt, and baking powder, mixing just until incorporated. Pour this rich brownie batter into your prepared pan, setting up the decadent foundation for the cheesecake layer.

Step 2: Creating the Cheesecake Layer

For the cheesecake topping, beat the softened cream cheese until ultra smooth and creamy – this ensures a perfect texture. To the cream cheese, add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg, mixing thoroughly until everything is silky. Blend in the sour cream last to keep the filling luxuriously smooth. Spoon and spread this luscious cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie base, creating a beautiful contrast between the chocolate richness and creamy tang.

Step 3: Adding the Milky Way and Caramel Swirls

Next, sprinkle the chopped Milky Way candy bars evenly across the cheesecake layer, gently pressing them down just a little so they nestle into the batter without sinking. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top and use a knife or toothpick to swirl it in gentle, artistic loops – this final touch creates that inviting marbled effect and ensures caramel pockets throughout the brownies.

Step 4: Baking Your Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Bake in your preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for a set brownie layer and cheesecake topping that still jiggles slightly in the center – that’s exactly how you want it for creamy texture. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean with a hint of cheesecake or caramel. Once baked, let the pan cool for 10 to 15 minutes, then transfer it to the fridge to chill completely for at least one hour. The cooling step helps the cheesecake layer firm up so you can cut perfect squares.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

After chilling, slice your Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies into generous squares. They can be enjoyed straight from the fridge for a firmer bite, or at room temperature if you prefer them softer and more molten. For an extra indulgent finish, drizzle with more caramel sauce or add a dollop of whipped cream before serving. Each bite bursts with chocolate, creamy cheesecake, chewy caramel, and irresistible candy chunks that will have everyone begging for more.

How to Serve Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Garnishes

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top helps to balance the sweetness and intensify chocolate and caramel flavors. Crushed Milky Way pieces or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce make beautiful and tasty garnishes that highlight all the layers of this dessert. Adding a few toasted nuts like pecans provides a lovely crunchy contrast that’s totally optional but definitely delicious.

Side Dishes

Serve these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add cool creaminess that complements the dense, rich layers. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add brightness and a pop of color to balance the indulgence. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk also pairs wonderfully, helping to wash down all that luscious sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at parties or gatherings, serve Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies in a mini dessert glass layered with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and more candy pieces for a deconstructed sundae feel. Alternatively, cut smaller bite-sized squares and place them on a dessert platter with colorful toppings to allow guests to customize their treats. These decadent brownies also make charming gifts when wrapped individually with a pretty ribbon.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled not only preserves freshness but also helps maintain the cheesecake’s creamy texture and the gooey caramel swirls.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these brownies can be frozen wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To avoid damaging the creamy cheesecake layer, freeze the whole pan or large blocks rather than individual slices. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat brownies gently at room temperature or in the fridge for softer caramel and chocolate. Warm them briefly in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds if preferred warm, but avoid overheating as the cheesecake may become grainy. A quick blast in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 8 minutes also works well to refresh the fudgy texture and melt the caramel sauce slightly.

FAQs

Can I use different candy bars instead of Milky Way for these brownies?

Absolutely! While Milky Way bars provide that classic caramel and nougat combo, other caramel-filled candy bars like Twix or Snickers can be substituted to create your own unique twist on these brownies.

Why does the cheesecake layer sometimes crack when I bake it?

Cracks occur when the cheesecake is overbaked or the oven temperature is too high. Keeping a watchful eye and baking until just set, with a slight jiggle in the middle, helps maintain a smooth, crack-free layer.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend appropriate for baking. Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients also meet gluten-free standards.

Is it possible to make the caramel sauce from scratch?

Definitely. Homemade caramel sauce made from sugar, butter, and cream is easy to prepare and tastes incredible drizzled over these brownies. Using homemade caramel allows you to control the sweetness and texture perfectly.

How can I make these brownies extra fudgy?

For an even fudgier brownie base, you can slightly reduce the flour or add an extra egg yolk. Just be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the dense, rich texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to wow your friends, family, or yourself with a truly decadent dessert, Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are an unbeatable choice. The irresistibly rich chocolate, luxuriously creamy cheesecake, and dreamy caramel swirls studded with classic Milky Way candies make this a dessert to remember. Give this recipe a try—you’re going to love every luscious bite!

Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 18 reviews

Author: Sarah
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in rich, fudgy brownies layered with creamy cheesecake, studded with chopped Milky Way candy bars and swirled with luscious caramel sauce. These Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies combine the perfect balance of chocolate, caramel, and cheesecake textures for an irresistible dessert treat.

Instructions

Prepare the brownie base: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or cooking spray. In a medium saucepan, melt butter and chopped chocolate over medium heat, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture. Sift the flour, salt, and baking powder into the bowl and mix until just combined. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan.
Make the cheesecake layer: Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg, beating until fully combined. Stir in the sour cream until smooth and creamy. Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the brownie base, spreading evenly.
Add the Milky Way and caramel: Gently drop chopped Milky Way pieces into the cheesecake layer, pressing them slightly into the batter. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and swirl with a knife or toothpick to create a marbled effect.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the brownie layer is set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean (a little cheesecake or caramel on the toothpick is okay). The cheesecake layer should be slightly jiggly in the middle. Let the brownies cool for 10-15 minutes in the pan before transferring to the fridge to cool completely for at least 1 hour.
Serve: Once chilled, cut into squares and serve. These brownies can be served cold or at room temperature. Optionally, drizzle with extra caramel sauce or top with whipped cream.

Notes

Use parchment paper for easy removal of the brownies from the pan.
Check for doneness with a toothpick; some cheesecake residue is normal.
For a smoother caramel drizzle, warm and mix caramel sauce with heavy cream before drizzling.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Allow the brownies to fully chill before slicing to prevent crumbling.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American