Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Decadent and rich Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies combining the fudgy texture of classic brownies with a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer, swirled together for a beautiful marbled effect. Perfect for dessert lovers who enjoy the best of both worlds in one bite.
- Author: zara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies (8x8 inch pan, cut into 16 squares) 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Brownie Layer
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 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
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make it easier to lift the brownies out later.
- Melt Butter and Mix Wet Ingredients for Brownie: In a medium saucepan, gently melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to evenly distribute the leavening agents and cocoa.
- Make Brownie Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the melted butter mixture, stirring until just combined to avoid overmixing. Fold in chocolate chips if using for extra chocolate bursts.
- Prepare Brownie Base: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly to create a smooth base layer.
- Make Cheesecake Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Layer Cheesecake on Brownie: Spoon the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie base, spreading gently with a spatula or spoon to cover the surface.
- Create Marble Effect: Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cheesecake layer into the brownie batter to create a beautiful marbled pattern without fully blending them together.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, indicating a fudgy texture.
- Cool in Pan: Remove from oven and let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 to 15 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out carefully.
- Cool Completely & Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing into squares. Serve warm for gooey texture or chilled for a firmer bite. Enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Do not overmix the brownie batter to keep the brownies fudgy and tender.
- Optional chocolate chips add extra chocolate flavor and texture but can be omitted for a simpler brownie.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Allow to come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Keywords: Chocolate cheesecake brownies, fudgy brownies, marbled brownies, dessert, chocolate dessert, cream cheese brownies