Introduction

Cheesecake brownies combine the best of two beloved desserts into one indulgent treat. Rich, fudgy chocolate brownie layers are swirled with creamy cheesecake for a delightful texture and flavor contrast. Perfect for sharing or satisfying your sweet tooth at home.

The image shows two square cheesecake brownies stacked on a piece of parchment paper on a white marbled surface. Each brownie has three visible layers: a dark, moist chocolate brownie base, a thick creamy off-white cheesecake middle layer, and a glossy dark chocolate top layer with swirls and small chocolate chips on it. Two fresh red raspberries sit on top of the upper brownie. Around the brownies on the white marbled surface are a few dark chocolate chips and red raspberries, adding color contrast. The overall look is rich and textured, with the shiny chocolate layer catching light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

For a nutty upgrade, gently swirl in 1/2 cup peanut butter with the cheesecake layer before baking.
Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the chocolate batter for extra crunch.
Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
To keep the brownies fudgier, avoid overmixing the batter after adding flour.
Line the pan with parchment paper with overhang to easily lift brownies out after cooling.

Storage

Store cheesecake brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze the brownies wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of two stacked dessert squares on white parchment paper. Each square has three distinct layers: a thick, dark brown bottom brownie layer with a dense and fudgy texture, a smooth and creamy pale yellow middle cheesecake layer, and a thin top layer of shiny dark chocolate with a cracked surface and a few small chocolate chips scattered on it. On top of the upper brownie, two fresh red raspberries add a bright pop of color. Surrounding the dessert, there are a few loose chocolate chips and raspberries resting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly. Choose quality dairy-free products for the best result.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. The cheesecake swirls may stay creamy but the chocolate part should be mostly set.