Introduction

Indulge in the perfect combination of rich, fudgy brownies and creamy cheesecake with these irresistible cheesecake brownies. The swirl of tangy cream cheese and chocolate makes every bite a delightful treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Irresistible Cheesecake Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Choose high-quality for best results)
1 cup Granulated Sugar (Balances the richness of cocoa and cream cheese)
2 Large Eggs (Use fresh ones for optimal texture)
1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Essential for the perfect bite)
1/2 cup Melted Unsalted Butter (Don’t skip this for creamy brownies)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances and deepens the overall flavors)
8 oz Cream Cheese (Opt for full-fat to maximize creaminess)
1/2 cup Powdered Sugar (Creates a delightful creamy texture)
1 cup Chocolate Chips (For extra chocolate flavor)
1 cup Nuts (Add crushed walnuts or pecans for crunch)
1/2 cup Peanut Butter (Swirl in for a nutty upgrade)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder and all-purpose flour. Gently stir until just combined to maintain that fudgy texture.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
Step 5: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture over it, then add the remaining brownie batter on top. Use a knife to swirl the layers together.
Step 6: Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check using a toothpick—it should come out slightly moist but not wet.
Step 7: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares for neat portions.

Tips & Variations

Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to balance the sweetness.
Swap the nuts for your favorite mix-ins like dried cherries or toffee bits.
For a peanut butter twist, swirl in additional peanut butter along with the cream cheese mixture.
Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.

Storage

Store cheesecake brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To enjoy softer brownies after refrigeration, let them come to room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of full-fat?

While you can use low-fat cream cheese, full-fat cream cheese provides a creamier texture and richer flavor, making it the best choice for this recipe.

How do I know when the brownies are done without overbaking?

Insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Overbaking can make the brownies dry, so keep a close eye near the end of baking time.

Irresistible Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

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These irresistible cheesecake brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate with a creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl for the perfect decadent dessert. Featuring a moist cocoa-infused brownie base layered and swirled with a smooth cream cheese mixture, they offer a delightful contrast in textures and flavors. Enhanced with chocolate chips and crunchy nuts, these brownies are a must-try for chocolate and cheesecake lovers alike.

Author: Tara
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Batter

1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Choose high-quality for best results.)
1 cup Granulated Sugar (Balances the richness of cocoa and cream cheese.)
2 Large Eggs (Use fresh ones for optimal texture.)
1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Essential for the perfect bite.)
1/2 cup Melted Unsalted Butter (Don’t skip this for creamy brownies.)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances and deepens the overall flavors.)
1 cup Chocolate Chips (For extra chocolate flavor.)
1 cup Nuts (Add crushed walnuts or pecans for crunch.)
1/2 cup Peanut Butter (Swirl in for a nutty upgrade.)

Cheesecake Swirl

8 oz Cream Cheese (Opt for full-fat to maximize creaminess.)
1/2 cup Powdered Sugar (Creates a delightful creamy texture.)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Included for flavor balance in the cream cheese mixture.)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
Prepare 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, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This ensures a rich and moist texture for your brownies.
Add Dry Ingredients: Sift together the unsweetened cocoa powder and all-purpose flour into your wet ingredients. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet batter until just combined to maintain the fudgy texture. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
Mix Cheesecake Swirl: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until completely smooth and free of lumps. This creamy mixture will add a luscious contrast to the dense brownie base.
Layer the Batter: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture over the batter, then drizzle the remaining brownie batter on top. Use a knife to swirl the brownie and cheesecake layers together, creating a marbled effect. Optionally, sprinkle chocolate chips and nuts on top for extra texture and flavor.
Bake: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. This ensures the brownies remain fudgy but fully cooked.
Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This helps them set properly for neat, clean slices. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy your decadent cheesecake brownies.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor in the cheesecake swirl.
Be careful not to overbake; brownies should be slightly moist in the center to preserve fudginess.
Swirling the cheesecake mixture gently ensures a beautiful marbled pattern without mixing the layers completely.
Optional: Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips on top before baking to add crunch and extra chocolate bursts.
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Keywords: cheesecake brownies, fudge brownies, chocolate cheesecake swirl, dessert recipe, easy brownies, chocolate and cream cheese dessert