Cheesecake Brownies

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these luscious cheesecake brownies that combine rich chocolate brownie layers with a creamy cheesecake swirl. This decadent dessert is perfect for any occasion, making it a favorite among chocolate and cheesecake lovers alike. With its fudgy texture and creamy topping, these brownies are sure to impress your family and friends!

Lydia Barrett

Created by

Lydia Barrett

Last updated on 2025-12-10T10:36:41.262Z

Cheesecake brownies are a delightful treat that bring together two beloved desserts into one amazing experience. Perfectly fudgy brownie layers are paired with a rich and creamy cheesecake swirl that elevates this dessert to the next level.

Indulge in Decadence

Cheesecake brownies offer a delightful blend of flavors that elevate your dessert experience. The rich chocolate brownie base pairs perfectly with the light and creamy cheesecake swirl, creating a harmonious dessert that satisfies diverse taste preferences. Each bite brings a balance of fudgy chocolate and creamy cheese, making these brownies a perfect treat for both chocolate aficionados and cheesecake lovers. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them as a personal treat, these brownies promise a decadent indulgence like no other.

The unique texture combination is another reason you'll adore these cheesecakes brownies. The slightly chewy brownie base serves as a sturdy foundation, while the cheesecake swirl adds a luxurious creaminess. The contrast in texture complements the flavor blend beautifully, providing a sensory delight with every mouthful. Additionally, their visually appealing swirls create an inviting presentation, making them as beautiful as they are delicious.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These cheesecake brownies are incredibly versatile, perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you're planning a birthday celebration, a holiday gathering, or simply a cozy family dessert night, these brownies are sure to bring happiness to your table. Their rich flavor and elegant appearance make them a fantastic dessert for formal events, while their simplicity ensures they can be made quickly for casual get-togethers.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily customize the ingredients and flavors to suit your preferences or seasonal ingredients. For instance, consider adding swirls of fruit puree, chocolate chips, or nuts to the brownie batter or cheesecake mixture for added flavor and texture variations. Feel free to experiment and make this dessert your own!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storing these cheesecake brownies is straightforward and helps maintain their deliciousness. Once they have cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months; simply thaw before serving. This makes them a great make-ahead dessert for busy weeks or celebratory occasions.

When it's time to serve, consider warming them slightly in the microwave to enhance their fudgy texture. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent dessert experience. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or fresh berries on top can also add a pop of color and freshness, making the presentation even more enticing.

Ingredients

Ingredients

For the Brownies

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the Cheesecake Swirl

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for the best results.

Instructions

Instructions

Prepare the Brownie Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar.

Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until fully combined. Stir in cocoa, flour, salt, and baking powder until smooth.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add the egg and blend until fully incorporated, making a creamy mixture.

Combine and Bake

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread the cheesecake mixture on top, followed by dollops of the remaining brownie batter. Use a knife to swirl the layers together gently.

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Enjoy these brownies warm or at room temperature for the best experience!

Tips for Success

To ensure the best flavor and texture in your cheesecake brownies, start by using high-quality ingredients. Fresh eggs and good quality chocolate will make a noticeable difference in taste. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter; overmixing can lead to dense and tough brownies. Mix until just combined for the perfect fudgy texture.

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps set the layers and ensures you get clean cuts when slicing. For even better results, refrigerate the brownies for a couple of hours after they cool completely; this makes them easier to cut and enhances their flavor.

Nutritional Information

While cheesecake brownies are a decadent treat, being aware of their nutritional content can help you enjoy them in moderation. An average serving can range from 200 to 300 calories, depending on the portion size and specific ingredients used. They typically contain sugars and fats, so it's best to savor them occasionally as part of a balanced diet.

If you're looking for a healthier twist, consider substituting some of the butter with applesauce or using a sugar substitute. While this may slightly alter the texture, it can reduce calories and make the brownies more nutritious without compromising too much on flavor.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the brownies a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

→ Can I substitute the cream cheese?

Ricotta cheese can be used as a lighter alternative, but it may alter the texture slightly.

Cheesecake Brownies

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these luscious cheesecake brownies that combine rich chocolate brownie layers with a creamy cheesecake swirl. This decadent dessert is perfect for any occasion, making it a favorite among chocolate and cheesecake lovers alike. With its fudgy texture and creamy topping, these brownies are sure to impress your family and friends!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration35 minutes
Overall Time55 minutes

Created by: Lydia Barrett

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 16 brownies

What You'll Need

For the Brownies

  1. 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1/2 cup brown sugar
  4. 2 large eggs
  5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  6. 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  7. 1 cup all-purpose flour
  8. 1/4 teaspoon salt
  9. 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

For the Cheesecake Swirl

  1. 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  2. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  4. 1 large egg

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until fully combined. Stir in cocoa, flour, salt, and baking powder until smooth.

Step 02

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add the egg and blend until fully incorporated, making a creamy mixture.

Step 03

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spread the cheesecake mixture on top, followed by dollops of the remaining brownie batter. Use a knife to swirl the layers together gently. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean.

Step 04

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 per serving
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 20g
  • Protein: 3g