Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Imagine sinking your fork through a fudgy brownie and discovering a luscious, tangy swirl of cheesecake inside – that’s exactly what you get with these Cheesecake Brownies! This irresistible mash-up is a dream come true for anyone who can’t choose between two iconic treats. Every bite is pure bliss: rich chocolate, velvety cheesecake, a hint of vanilla, and just the right touch of gooey decadence.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s honestly amazing how such modest, pantry-friendly ingredients give Cheesecake Brownies their addictive flavor and striking, marbled look. Each ingredient has its moment to shine – from the deep, cocoa-rich brownie base to the tangy, cloud-like cheesecake swirl.

• Dark chocolate (72%): This is the backbone of our brownie layer — it promises deep, complex chocolatey flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Melted into the chocolate, it adds moistness and richness, making every bite luscious.
• Dutch process or unsweetened cocoa powder: Sifting it ensures zero lumps and gives your brownies that extra chocolaty kick.
• Large eggs: Eggs act as a binder and also help aerate the batter for a soft-yet-fudgy crumb.
• Caster sugar (or granulated): Caster sugar dissolves better to help you get that coveted shiny, crackly brownie top.
• Light or dark brown sugar: Brown sugar adds subtle molasses depth and helps keep the brownies super fudgy.
• Salt: Just a whisper of salt wakes up all those chocolate and cheesecake flavors.
• Vanilla extract or paste: Adds warmth and rounds out both batter and swirl with fragrant complexity.
• All-purpose flour: Sifted flour helps avoid lumps and gives the perfect, chewy body to the brownie base.
• Full-fat cream cheese: The heart of the cheesecake layer — full fat is key for ultra-smooth, creamy results.
• Caster sugar (in cheesecake layer): Lightly sweetens the tangy cheese without overpowering it.
• 1 large egg (for cheesecake): Binds the layer to keep it plush yet sliceable.
• Vanilla (optional, for cheesecake): Enhances the cream cheese and gives the swirl a classic cheesecake flavor.

Variations

One of the most delightful things about Cheesecake Brownies is how customizable they are. With a few small tweaks, you can easily make them your own — adjust for what you have in your pantry, your favorite add-ins, or even your dietary needs!

• Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop small spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter on top before baking and swirl with the cheesecake for irresistible richness.
• Espresso Kick: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the brownie batter for a mocha twist that intensifies the chocolate flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free treat.
• Berry Burst: Gently press in a handful of raspberries or swirl in some raspberry jam for fruity contrast to the chocolate and cheesecake layers.

How to Make Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Preheat

Start by greasing and lining a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides to act as a sling. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) — this will ensure a quick transfer once your batters are ready and prevent any temperature surprises later!

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter

Combine your chopped dark chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, stirring until smooth and glossy. You can also microwave in short bursts, mixing between each, to avoid burning. Sift your cocoa right over the melted mixture and blend well for a double hit of chocolate.

Step 3: Aerate Eggs and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine your eggs, caster sugar, and brown sugar. Beat on medium-high for 2-3 minutes until pale, fluffy, and increased in volume. This key step creates that irresistible crackly brownie top!

Step 4: Combine Brownie Batter

Pour the melted chocolate-butter-cocoa blend into the whipped egg-sugar mixture, then fold through the salt, vanilla, and finally the sifted flour. Mix just until smooth — try not to over-do it, to keep the texture tender. Pour into your lined pan and bang the pan on the counter a couple of times to pop any sneaky air bubbles.

Step 5: Make the Cheesecake Swirl

Using a hand mixer or sturdy whisk, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla (if using) until satiny and lump-free. Dollop about ¾ of this cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter, then gently swirl with a toothpick or knife. Add the remaining cheesecake and create extra marbled drama!

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake for 22 to 28 minutes, checking at the 20-minute mark. The edges should be set, but the center just barely resists a toothpick test — think moist crumbs, not raw batter! Let the Cheesecake Brownies cool in the pan, then use the parchment to lift them onto a rack for easy, neat slicing.

How to Serve Cheesecake Brownies

Garnishes

Dress up your Cheesecake Brownies with a light dusting of powdered sugar, some luscious fresh berries, or — for true decadence — a drizzle of warm chocolate or salted caramel sauce just before serving.

Side Dishes

Serve these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of softly whipped cream for the ultimate dessert plate. For a lighter touch, a mug of black coffee or strong espresso cuts beautifully through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, cut your Cheesecake Brownies into mini bites and nestle them in petite cupcake liners. Or cut into heart or star shapes for holidays and pack in a bakery box for irresistibly cute homemade gifts!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Cheesecake Brownies fresh by storing them in an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious at room temperature for up to two days, but you can pop them in the fridge for up to four days if you want them extra fudgy and cool.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap individual brownie squares in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

Want a warm, gooey treat? Pop a brownie square in the microwave for 10-15 seconds — just enough to take the chill off without melting the swirl, and you’ll have a bakery-fresh bite in no time.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re a chocolate or cheesecake lover, these Cheesecake Brownies truly deliver the best of both worlds—so don’t wait! They’re easy, visually stunning, and guaranteed to disappear the moment you serve them. I can’t wait for you to take a bite and fall in love with every decadent, swirly square.

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