Indulgent Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Introduction

These indulgent cheesecake brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate with creamy, tangy cheesecake swirls for a decadent treat. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, they are easy to make and impressive to serve.

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 your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Step 3: Sift in the cocoa powder and flour, then stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
5. Step 5: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture on top.
6. Step 6: Use a knife to swirl the cheesecake mixture into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect. If desired, sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the top.
7. Step 7: Bake for 30-35 minutes. Test with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out slightly moist but not wet to ensure fudgy brownies.
8. Step 8: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for a smoother batter and mixture.
• Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
• For a richer flavor, substitute melted butter with browned butter.
• Chocolate chips are optional but add extra bursts of melty chocolate.

Storage

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If refrigerated, let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. They can also be frozen wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the cheesecake swirl may be less creamy and slightly tangier. Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and richness.

How do I prevent the cheesecake from cracking?

Make sure your cream cheese is softened and beat it well with the powdered sugar before adding it to the batter. Avoid overbaking as this can cause cracks, and a gentle swirl rather than heavy mixing helps keep the swirls intact.

Indulgent Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

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4.8 from 312 reviews

These Indulgent Cheesecake Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic chocolate brownies with a creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl for a decadent dessert experience. With a perfect balance of chocolate and cheesecake flavors, these treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth craving.

• Author: Felix
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies 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 tsp vanilla extract

Optional

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare 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 and ensure easy removal.
2. Make Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk the melted unsalted butter together with granulated sugar until well combined. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder and all-purpose flour into the wet mixture. Gently stir the batter until just combined, being careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
4. Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
5. Layer and Swirl: Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Dollop the cheesecake mixture on top in several spots, then pour the remaining brownie batter over it. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the cheesecake mixture into the brownie batter to create a marbled effect. Optionally, sprinkle chocolate chips over the top for extra chocolate goodness.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling process helps set the cheesecake swirl and improves cutting. Once cooled, slice into squares and serve.

Notes

• For easier slicing and cleaner cuts, refrigerate the brownies for an hour after they have cooled.
• Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smoother cheesecake mixture without lumps.
• Do not overbake; fudgy brownies should be slightly moist in the center.
• Use parchment paper lining to lift brownies out of the pan easily.
• Optional chocolate chips add texture and extra chocolate flavor, but can be omitted if preferred.

Keywords: brownies, cheesecake brownies, dessert, chocolate swirl, rich dessert, easy brownies, homemade dessert