Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
These decadent cheesecake brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownie layers with a creamy cheesecake swirl for a perfect dessert that satisfies both chocolate and cheesecake cravings. Easy to make with simple ingredients, they bake up moist and luscious with a beautiful marbled effect.
- Author: Tara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Brownie Layer
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
Optional
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter and unsweetened cocoa powder until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and vanilla extract into the cocoa mixture just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the brownies tender.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the large egg and mix until fully blended and lump-free.
- Layer Batter and Cheesecake: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Spoon half of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer. Repeat with the remaining brownie batter and then the rest of the cheesecake mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl the layers together, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is set but still slightly soft in the center when tested with a toothpick. Avoid overbaking to maintain a fudgy texture.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares for serving.
Notes
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, you can use dark cocoa powder.
- If desired, fold chocolate chips into the brownie batter before layering for added texture and chocolate bursts.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These brownies can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw completely before serving.
Keywords: cheesecake brownies, chocolate cheesecake swirl brownies, fudgy brownies, easy dessert, chocolate dessert, cheesecake dessert