Indulgent Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Introduction

Indulgent Cheesecake Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic brownies with a creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl. This irresistible dessert is perfect for anyone who loves the best of both worlds in a single bite.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Step 3: Sift in cocoa powder and flour; stir gently until just combined.
4. Step 4: In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
5. Step 5: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Add dollops of the cheesecake mixture on top and swirl with a knife. If using, sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the top.
6. Step 6: Bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick—it should come out slightly moist but not wet.
7. Step 7: Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Tips & Variations

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest cheesecake swirl.
• Add a handful of chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
• Try swapping chocolate chips for white chocolate or raspberry chips to change up the taste.
• Swirling the cheesecake mixture lightly keeps the marbled effect—avoid overmixing for best results.

Storage

Store cooled brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the cheesecake layer fresh. Bring to room temperature before serving or warm gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds. For longer storage, freeze brownies wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

While low-fat cream cheese can be used, full-fat cream cheese provides a richer, creamier texture and better flavor in the cheesecake layer.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. The cheesecake swirl may appear soft but will firm up as it cools.

Indulgent Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

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4.8 from 121 reviews

Indulgent Cheesecake Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownie batter with a creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl, creating a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion. These brownies are easy to make, baked to perfection with a moist and tender crumb encasing smooth cheesecake ribbons.

• Author: zara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies (about 2-inch squares) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Batter

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cheesecake Swirl

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (added to cheesecake mixture for enhanced flavor)

Optional

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the brownie batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully.
3. Add dry ingredients: Sift the unsweetened cocoa powder and all-purpose flour into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the brownies.
4. Prepare cheesecake mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until smooth and creamy with no lumps.
5. Assemble in pan: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Dollop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cheesecake mixture into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect. If using, sprinkle chocolate chips on top.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. To test doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.
7. Cool and serve: Allow the cheesecake brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This helps the brownies set and makes slicing easier.

Notes

• Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth incorporation into the cheesecake swirl.
• Avoid overbaking as this can dry out the brownies; check around 30 minutes with a toothpick test.
• You can substitute chocolate chips with nuts for added texture if preferred.
• Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• For easier slicing, refrigerate the brownies before cutting.

Keywords: cheesecake brownies, chocolate brownies, marbled brownies, dessert recipe, fudge brownie