Cheesecake Brownies

Cheesecake brownies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy texture of cheesecake. This dessert is not only visually stunning with its marbled effect, but it also offers a unique flavor profile that is sure to please your taste buds. Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or whenever you’re in the mood for something sweet, these cheesecake brownies will impress anyone who tries them. Plus, they’re easily customizable with your favorite mix-ins!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The deep chocolate base paired with the creamy cheesecake creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Treat: Customize them with chocolate chips, fruit swirls, or nutty additions to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family dinner, these brownies fit right in.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dessert without fuss.
• Impressive Presentation: The marbled effect makes these brownies look beautiful on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious cheesecake brownies, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Baking pan (9-inch square)
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess. A large bowl helps prevent spills during mixing.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Makes it easy to achieve a smooth cheesecake batter quickly and efficiently.
• Baking pan: A sturdy baking pan ensures even cooking throughout the brownies.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

• 1 cup unsalted butter cubed (227g)
• 1⅓ cups semisweet chocolate chips divided (240g)
• ¾ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 1 cup brown sugar (220g)
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 1 yolk room temperature
• 1 tablespoon brewed coffee
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon hot water plus more if needed

For the Cheesecake Topping

• 2 (8-ounce/227g) blocks cream cheese room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1 pinch salt
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

How to Make Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking pan with butter or baking spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Base

In a large microwave-safe bowl:
1. Combine the butter and 1 cup of chocolate chips.
2. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval until fully melted and combined—this should take about 2 minutes.
3. Whisk in the cocoa powder until well mixed.
4. Add both sugars, eggs, egg yolk, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract; whisk until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add the flour and salt into the brownie mixture:
– Stir together using a spatula until just combined.
– Reserve ½ cup of brownie batter in a small bowl for later use.
– Mix remaining chocolate chips into the brownie batter before spreading it evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 4: Bake Brownie Base

Bake for:
– 20 minutes for super fudgy brownies,
– 30 minutes for more cakey brownies.

While baking, stir hot water into reserved brownie batter until it’s thick but pourable.

Step 5: Make Cheesecake Topping

In another bowl:
– Place cream cheese, sugar, and salt.
– Beat on medium speed with a hand mixer until very smooth—about 2 minutes.
– Reduce speed to low; add eggs one at a time while scraping down the bowl as needed. Beat in vanilla extract.

Step 6: Assemble Brownies

Carefully pour cheesecake topping over par-baked brownie base without cooling it first.
– Dollop reserved brownie batter over cheesecake topping.
– Use a skewer or knife tip to swirl through cheesecake gently.

Step 7: Final Baking

Continue baking for an additional:
10 minutes,
then reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and bake for another 20–25 minutes until puffed around edges and slightly wobbly in center.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Place pan on wire rack to cool completely before refrigerating for at least an hour before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delicious cheesecake brownies!

How to Serve Cheesecake Brownies

Cheesecake brownies are not just delicious on their own; they can be served in various ways to enhance their flavors and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make your cheesecake brownies even more enjoyable.

A La Mode

• Serve warm cheesecake brownies topped with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a classic dessert experience.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to add a burst of flavor and a pop of color.

Whipped Cream

• Top your cheesecake brownies with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess and a light texture.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an added layer of decadence and visual appeal.

Nuts and Seeds

• Sprinkle chopped nuts or seeds, like walnuts or pistachios, for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Mint Leaves

• Add fresh mint leaves as a garnish to provide a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the brownies.

How to Perfect Cheesecake Brownies

Making the perfect cheesecake brownies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out beautifully every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature helps achieve a smooth batter and prevents lumps.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, so gently fold in ingredients when needed.

• Check for Doneness: Avoid overbaking by keeping an eye on the cheesecake topping; it should be slightly wobbly in the center when done.

• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating your brownies for at least an hour allows them to set properly, enhancing their flavor and texture.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add flavors like orange zest or espresso powder into the brownie batter for an exciting twist.

• Use Quality Chocolate: Using high-quality chocolate chips will significantly improve the taste of your cheesecake brownies.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesecake Brownies

Pairing side dishes with cheesecake brownies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement their rich flavors.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the brownies.

2. Ice Cream Floats: Combine soda with ice cream for a fun, fizzy treat that pairs well with rich desserts.

3. Chocolate Mousse: A light, airy mousse provides contrast while still satisfying chocolate cravings.

4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over your cheesecake brownies adds extra sweetness and richness.

5. Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee enhances the chocolate flavors and makes for a comforting pairing.

6. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses, such as creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, which can create interesting flavor contrasts.

7. Pecan Pie Bites: Small bites of pecan pie offer another sweet option while adding a nutty crunch alongside your brownies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Cheesecake Brownies can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time.

• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs and cream cheese. This helps to create a smooth batter that blends well together.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Stir gently and stop once you no longer see dry ingredients.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper makes it much easier to lift out the brownies for cutting. Don’t skip this step!
• Not checking for doneness: Each oven is different, so check your brownies frequently towards the end of baking. Look for a slightly wobbly center and set edges.
• Cutting too soon: Allow the cheesecake brownies to cool completely before slicing. Chilling them in the fridge for an hour helps them set properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cheesecake Brownies

• Freeze in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Cheesecake Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place brownies in for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place a brownie in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheesecake Brownies:

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes, you can substitute semisweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips based on your preference.

How do I know when my Cheesecake Brownies are done?

The edges should be set and the center should have a slight wobble. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I customize my Cheesecake Brownies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chunks, or fruit swirls into the brownie mixture before baking.

What’s the best way to serve Cheesecake Brownies?

Serve chilled for firmer slices or slightly warmed for a gooey texture. Both are delicious!

How long can I store Cheesecake Brownies?

You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful blend of two favorite desserts that everyone will love. Their rich flavors and creamy textures make them perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself. Feel free to customize these brownies with your favorite mix-ins for an added twist!

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Cheesecake Brownies

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Cheesecake Brownies, where fudgy chocolate meets smooth cheesecake in a decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their stunning marbled appearance and customizable flavors, these brownies are sure to impress both family and friends. Whether you prefer them warm with ice cream or chilled with fresh berries, these cheesecake brownies are a versatile dessert option that satisfies every sweet tooth. Easy to prepare and beautiful to present, they bring together the best of both worlds—brownies and cheesecake—into one delicious bite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter (cubed)
• 1⅓ cups semisweet chocolate chips
• ¾ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon brewed coffee
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 (8-ounce) blocks cream cheese (room temperature)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 pinch salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter with 1 cup of chocolate chips in intervals, stirring until smooth. Whisk in cocoa powder, sugars, eggs, coffee, and vanilla until combined.
3. Stir in flour and salt until just mixed; reserve some batter for later. Add remaining chocolate chips.
4. Bake brownie base for 20 minutes for fudginess or up to 30 minutes for cakey texture.
5. In another bowl, beat cream cheese with sugar and salt until smooth. Add eggs one at a time and mix in vanilla.
6. Pour cheesecake mixture over brownie base and dollop reserved brownie batter on top; swirl gently.
7. Bake for an additional 10 minutes at 350°F, then reduce temperature to 325°F (160°C) and bake for another 20–25 minutes until edges are set.
8. Cool completely before refrigerating for at least an hour before slicing.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 brownie (75g)
• Calories: 265
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 78mg