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If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if you combined the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, the answer is: absolute heaven. Cheesecake Brownies offer the best of both worlds—a decadent, dense brownie base paired with a smooth, velvety cheesecake topping that melts in your mouth. This recipe combines two classic desserts in one irresistible treat, making it a crowd-pleaser for parties, family gatherings, or any time you’re craving something special.
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Why Cheesecake Brownies?
When it comes to desserts, brownies have always been a fan favorite. They’re rich, chocolatey, and offer a comforting, fudgy texture. On the other hand, cheesecake is known for its smooth, creamy texture and tangy flavor, often balanced with sweetness. When you combine the two, you create a dessert that satisfies multiple cravings—whether you’re in the mood for something chocolatey or something creamy.
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The best part about cheesecake brownies is the perfect balance they offer. The brownie layer provides a deep chocolate flavor and chewy texture, while the cheesecake layer is soft and velvety, creating a contrast of textures in every bite. It’s like enjoying two desserts in one, with a swirl of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
How to Make Cheesecake Brownies
Making cheesecake brownies is relatively easy and straightforward. It requires only a few steps, and with a little patience, you’ll have a dessert that’s both visually stunning and delicious. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to baking your own homemade cheesecake brownies.
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Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pan
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the brownies bake through evenly while allowing the cheesecake layer to set just right.
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, or grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray. This will make it easier to remove the brownies once they’re done.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Base
- Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or over low heat on the stove, melt the butter until it’s fully liquefied. Let it cool slightly before using.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and the melted butter until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. The brownie batter should be thick and fudgy.
- Spread the Brownie Batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly to cover the bottom of the pan.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or stand mixer until it’s smooth and creamy. This should only take a couple of minutes.
- Add the Sugar and Egg: Add the sugar to the cream cheese and continue beating until fully incorporated. Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla extract. If you’re using sour cream, add it at this stage as well.
- Mix Until Smooth: Continue to beat the mixture until it’s fully smooth and creamy. There shouldn’t be any lumps in the mixture. It should have a thick, spreadable consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesecake Brownies
- Layer the Cheesecake Mixture: Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly over the top of the brownie layer.
- Swirl the Layers: For a marbled effect, use a butter knife or toothpick to swirl the cheesecake layer into the brownie batter. You can create a simple swirl pattern by gently dragging the knife through both layers in a figure-eight motion.
- Optional: Add Chocolate Chips: If you’re using chocolate chips for the swirl, melt them in the microwave or over low heat and then drizzle them over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife to swirl the melted chocolate into the cheesecake.
Step 5: Bake the Cheesecake Brownies
- Bake in the Preheated Oven: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The brownies are done when the edges are set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are fine). The cheesecake layer will firm up as it cools.
- Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Then, transfer them to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2-3 hours to allow the cheesecake layer to set fully. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the Brownies: Once the cheesecake brownies have chilled and set, slice them into squares using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for cleaner slices.
- Serve: These brownies are best served cold, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature if you prefer. You can garnish them with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra special touch.
Tips for Success
While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few key tips to ensure your cheesecake brownies turn out perfect every time:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature before using them. This ensures that the cheesecake layer blends smoothly without lumps.
- Don’t Overmix the Brownie Batter: Overmixing the brownie batter can cause them to be too dense. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated, and you’ll achieve the perfect fudgy texture.
- Chill Before Serving: Be sure to allow the brownies to cool completely and refrigerate them for at least a few hours. This allows the cheesecake layer to firm up and makes cutting them easier.
- Use Good Quality Chocolate: Since the brownie layer is the base, using high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate will enhance the flavor of the entire dessert.
- Swirl Carefully: When swirling the cheesecake and brownie layers together, be gentle. You don’t want to fully mix the two layers, as the swirl effect is key to the visual appeal and texture.
Variations
There are plenty of ways to put your own spin on these cheesecake brownies. Here are a few ideas:
- Berry Swirl: Add a fruity twist by swirling in raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry jam into the cheesecake layer before baking. The tartness of the berries pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the brownies.
- Nutty Brownies: Add chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the brownie batter for extra crunch. You can also sprinkle nuts on top of the cheesecake layer for added texture.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: For peanut butter lovers, swirl some creamy peanut butter into the cheesecake layer for a delicious contrast of flavors.
- Chocolate Ganache: After the brownies have cooled and chilled, top them with a layer of glossy chocolate ganache for an even more indulgent treat.
Conclusion
These Cheesecake Brownies are the perfect combination of two beloved desserts. With a fudgy, rich brownie base and a smooth, creamy cheesecake topping, they offer the best of both worlds. Easy to make, versatile, and incredibly satisfying, these brownies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special event, or just because, these cheesecake brownies are sure to be a hit. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Enjoy!
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Total Time
1 hour
Ingredients
- For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) 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 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Prepare the brownie base:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. - Mix the brownie ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, and mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the brownie batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
- Prepare the cheesecake layer:
Mix the cheesecake filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until combined. Stir in the sour cream (if using) until smooth. - Layer the cheesecake filling: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter. Using a spoon or knife, gently swirl the cheesecake layer into the brownie layer for a marbled effect. Be careful not to mix it too much; you want the layers to remain somewhat distinct.
- Bake the brownies:
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs (be careful not to overbake, as the cheesecake layer will set further as it cools). - Cool and chill: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecake layer to firm up before cutting into squares.
- Serve: Once chilled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
Notes
- Extra creaminess: If you want an even creamier cheesecake layer, use full-fat cream cheese and add a tablespoon of heavy cream to the filling.
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