Name: Cheesecake Brownie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons Unsalted butter (cut into pieces); 4 ounces Bittersweet or semisweet chocolate (chopped); 2/3 cup Sugar (for the brownie batter); 2 large Eggs (at room temperature); 1/2 cup Flour; 1 tablespoon Cocoa powder (unsweetened); 1/8 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (for the brownie batter); 1/2 cup Chocolate chips; 8 ounces Cream cheese (at room temperature); 1 large Egg yolk; 5 tablespoons Sugar (for the cheesecake layer); 1/8 teaspoon Vanilla extract (for the cheesecake layer)

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If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy, tangy delight of cheesecake, then this Cheesecake Brownie Recipe is just what you need. The combination of chocolate and cream cheese creates an indulgent treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cheesecake brownies are sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Works

This Cheesecake Brownie Recipe strikes the perfect balance between textures and flavors. The brownies are dense and chocolatey, while the cheesecake layer is smooth and creamy. The bittersweet chocolate provides a rich depth, and the subtle vanilla notes enhance the overall flavor. By following this recipe, you’ll create brownies that are not only visually appealing but also deliciously satisfying.

The Essentials

To whip up these delightful cheesecake brownies, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons (85g), cut into pieces. This adds richness to the brownies.
Bittersweet or semisweet chocolate: 4 ounces (115g), chopped. Chocolate is the star ingredient in this recipe.
Sugar: 2/3 cup (130g) for the brownie batter and 5 tablespoons (75g) for the cheesecake layer. It sweetens the dessert.
Eggs: 2 large eggs, at room temperature. They help bind the ingredients and create a fluffy texture.
Flour: 1/2 cup (70g) for structure in the brownies.
Cocoa powder: 1 tablespoon, unsweetened (natural or Dutch process), provides extra chocolate flavor.
Salt: 1/8 teaspoon enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon for the brownie batter and 1/8 teaspoon for the cheesecake layer. It adds depth to the flavor.
Chocolate chips: 1/2 cup (80g) for added texture and bursts of chocolate.
Cream cheese: 8 ounces (225g), at room temperature. This is the base for the cheesecake layer.
Egg yolk: 1 large, for richness in the cheesecake.

Prep & Cook Tools

To make this Cheesecake Brownie Recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

8-inch square baking pan: Perfect size for baking these brownies.
Mixing bowls: For combining the brownie batter and cheesecake mixture.
Whisk: To mix the ingredients thoroughly.
Rubber spatula: For folding in the chocolate chips and spreading the cheesecake layer.
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: To melt the chocolate and butter together.

Directions: Cheesecake Brownie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 8-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped bittersweet or semisweet chocolate and the unsalted butter. Melt them together, stirring until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and the eggs until well combined. Add the melted chocolate and butter mixture, and whisk until smooth. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until just combined. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In another mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the egg yolk, sugar, and vanilla extract, and mix until creamy and well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Brownies

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Next, dollop the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer, spreading gently to cover. Finally, pour the remaining brownie batter on top and swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect.

Step 6: Bake the Brownies

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy. These cheesecake brownies are best served chilled or at room temperature.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

Looking to customize your Cheesecake Brownie Recipe? Here are some fun variations:

Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the brownie batter for a festive twist.
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for added crunch.
Fruit Swirl: Add a layer of fruit preserves or fresh berries between the brownie and cheesecake layers.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce on top before serving for an extra sweet touch.

Troubles You Can Avoid

To ensure your Cheesecake Brownie Recipe turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the brownie batter, mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the brownies fudgy.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness, but remember that a few moist crumbs are better than a clean toothpick.
Chill Before Serving: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you want to prepare your Cheesecake Brownie Recipe in advance, here’s how:

You can make the brownies a day ahead of time. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Quick Questions

Can I use milk chocolate instead of bittersweet chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind that it will result in a sweeter brownie. Adjust the sugar to taste if desired.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1 for best results.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use vegan cream cheese or a thick cashew cream as a substitute.

Can I add other flavors to the cheesecake layer?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding a bit of lemon zest or chocolate extract to the cheesecake mixture for a flavor twist.

Save & Share

If you loved this Cheesecake Brownie Recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family! Nothing brings people together like delicious desserts. Snap a picture of your creation and share it on social media with your favorite hashtags.

Indulging in these cheesecake brownies is a delightful experience that you won’t want to miss. With their luscious layers and chocolatey goodness, they are bound to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation. Enjoy baking, sharing, and of course, savoring every single bite!