Cheesecake Brownies are a match made in dessert heaven, combining the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the creamy, tangy goodness of cheesecake. This decadent dessert is perfect for those who can’t decide between their love for brownies and their passion for cheesecake. With a luscious layer of cheesecake swirled into a chocolatey brownie base, these bars are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Ideal for special occasions, potlucks, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, Cheesecake Brownies are sure to impress family and friends. This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, ensuring you can create a bakery-quality treat right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Cheesecake Brownies
To make these mouthwatering Cheesecake Brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Cheesecake Brownies
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal, and lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Brownie Batter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or a stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Assemble the Cheesecake Brownies:
- Pour about 2/3 of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom.
- Spoon the cheesecake batter over the brownie layer, spreading it out evenly.
- Dollop the remaining brownie batter on top of the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or a skewer to swirl the brownie and cheesecake layers together, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The cheesecake layer should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the cheesecake layer to firm up.
- Cut and Serve:
- Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and cut into squares.
- Serve the Cheesecake Brownies chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients
Butter:
Butter is a crucial ingredient in both the brownie and cheesecake layers. In the brownie layer, butter provides richness and helps create that dense, fudgy texture we love in brownies. It also helps to carry the flavors of the cocoa and sugar, enhancing the overall taste. Unsalted butter is typically preferred in baking to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
Sugar:
Granulated sugar is used in both layers of this recipe. In the brownie layer, sugar adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb. When combined with butter, it also aids in creating a smooth, glossy batter. In the cheesecake layer, sugar sweetens the cream cheese, balancing its tanginess and contributing to the creamy texture.
Eggs:
Eggs are essential for structure and stability in both the brownie and cheesecake layers. In the brownie batter, eggs help bind the ingredients together and add moisture, contributing to the chewy texture. In the cheesecake layer, eggs provide structure, helping the cheesecake set and maintain its shape while adding a creamy richness.
Vanilla Extract:
Vanilla extract is a key flavoring agent in this recipe. It enhances the overall flavor profile of both the brownie and cheesecake layers, adding a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. High-quality vanilla extract is recommended for the best results.
Cocoa Powder:
Unsweetened cocoa powder is the primary source of chocolate flavor in the brownie layer. It provides an intense, rich chocolate taste without adding extra sugar or fat. Sifting the cocoa powder helps prevent lumps and ensures it is evenly incorporated into the batter.
Flour:
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the brownie layer. The gluten in the flour helps hold the ingredients together and gives the brownies their chewy texture. It’s important to measure the flour accurately and avoid overmixing to prevent the brownies from becoming tough.
Cream Cheese:
Cream cheese is the star of the cheesecake layer, providing a creamy, tangy flavor and smooth texture. Softened cream cheese blends easily with the other ingredients, creating a lump-free, silky batter. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best texture and flavor.
Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful combination of two beloved desserts, offering the best of both worlds in each bite. The rich, fudgy brownie base pairs perfectly with the creamy, tangy cheesecake layer, creating a dessert that is as satisfying as it is beautiful. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of baking and the delicious results!
