Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of marrying the rich, fudgy decadence of brownies with the silky, tangy creaminess of cheesecake, then this Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is the answer to your dessert prayers. Each bite offers a beautiful swirl of chocolate and cheesecake that is both indulgent and utterly irresistible. Perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself, these brownies boast a moist texture with gooey chocolate chips and a luscious cheesecake topping that will have you reaching for seconds — trust me, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cheesecake Brownies Recipe comes together with straightforward ingredients, but each plays a crucial role in creating those perfect layers of texture and flavor. From the chocolate chips that add bursts of sweet richness to the cream cheese that brings a dreamy softness, every item contributes to making these brownies something truly special.

• 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus 1 cup, divided): These provide deep chocolate flavor and pockets of melty goodness throughout the brownies.
• 6 tablespoons butter (cubed): Adds richness and helps create that fudgy texture you love in brownies.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownie batter to balance the cocoa’s natural bitterness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, lending warmth and depth.
• 3 eggs: Bind ingredients and contribute to the tender crumb.
• 1/3 cup cornstarch: Helps keep the brownies chewy and adds structure without heaviness.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers that rich, chocolatey color and intense flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and brings out the chocolate’s complexity.
• 8-ounce package cream cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake layer, giving it a smooth, creamy texture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake topping just right.
• 1 egg: Adds silkiness and helps set the cheesecake layer.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor of the cheesecake mixture for extra yum.

How to Make Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Start by preheating the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch square baking pan with non-stick cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over the sides to lift the brownies out easily later on. This little prep step ensures your brownies come out clean and intact every time.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 12 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips and the cubed butter. Melt them together in 30-second bursts on high, stirring between each interval. This slow melting ensures a silky smooth chocolate base without burning.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients with Sugar and Vanilla

Pour your melted chocolate and butter into a large mixing bowl. Add ¾ cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing well to combine all those luscious flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Add Eggs One at a Time

Crack in the eggs, adding them one at a time while stirring between each addition. This technique helps the batter become smooth and well emulsified, creating the perfect brownie texture.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt. Then gradually add this dry mix to your wet batter, stirring vigorously for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is perfectly smooth — no lumps allowed!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the remaining 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. These will melt slightly during baking, giving your brownies those irresistible pockets of molten chocolate.

Step 7: Layer the Brownie Batter

Pour about two-thirds of the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. This is the base layer that will cradle the creamy cheesecake topping.

Step 8: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until it feels light and fluffy. Add ½ cup sugar and continue beating until fully combined with no lumps.

Step 9: Add Egg and Vanilla to Cheesecake

Mix in the egg and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract with the cream cheese mixture until smooth. This creates a luscious cheesecake batter ready to top your brownies.

Step 10: Spread Cheesecake Mixture

Carefully spoon the cheesecake batter over the brownie base, gently spreading it into a thin, even layer. The contrast of creamy and fudgy is where these brownies shine.

Step 11: Top with Remaining Brownie Batter

Spoon the rest of the brownie batter over the cheesecake layer. It’s okay if it looks a little uneven—this will bake into a wonderfully marbled treat.

Step 12: Bake Your Brownies

Bake the entire pan for 30 to 35 minutes. To test doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean, with only a few melted chocolate streaks, but no raw batter.

Step 13: Cool and Cut

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out easily, then cut into squares. What you’ll have are perfect, indulgent portions of cheesecake and chocolate bliss.

How to Serve Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate these cheesecake brownies even more, try sprinkling some flaky sea salt on top after baking. Fresh berries or a drizzle of raspberry sauce also add a lovely pop of color and balance the sweetness. If you’re feeling festive, a dusting of powdered sugar always looks gorgeous.

Side Dishes

Serve these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cold creaminess contrasts perfectly with the dense, chocolatey brownies. For a cozy touch, pair them with a cup of rich coffee or freshly brewed espresso.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer cheesecake brownies in a glass trifle with whipped cream and fresh fruit for an elegant dessert parfait. You can also cube them and serve as bite-sized treats on a dessert platter, perfect for parties or potlucks. Wrapping individual squares in parchment paper makes a thoughtful homemade gift, too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cheesecake brownies store beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For best texture, keep them slightly cool but not refrigerated, unless your kitchen is warm.

Freezing

If you want to save them for longer, wrap brownies individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature.

Reheating

To enjoy brownies warm, pop a piece in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or briefly warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. This brings back that gooey, freshly baked feeling and makes your cheesecake brownies taste like they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of cornstarch?

Cornstarch is key for keeping these brownies extra chewy and light. Using regular flour will change the texture, making them a bit denser. If you must substitute, use the same amount, but don’t expect the identical fudgy result.

What type of cream cheese works best?

Full-fat cream cheese gives the best flavor and creaminess for the cheesecake layer. Avoid low-fat or whipped versions, as they can make the topping less smooth and affect baking performance.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

With some careful substitutions like dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter, you can adapt this recipe. However, it might slightly alter the texture and flavor, so proceed knowing it won’t taste exactly the same.

Why do the cheesecake and brownie layers swirl together?

When you spoon the brownie batter over the cheesecake layer, a bit of mixing happens naturally during baking creating a beautiful marbled effect. This swirl adds to both the visual appeal and flavor blend of the final dessert.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

The toothpick test is your best friend here—insert it in the center, and if it comes out mostly clean with a few melted chocolate streaks, the brownies are ready. Avoid overbaking to maintain that fudgy texture everyone loves.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines the best of two classic desserts into one unforgettable treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a simple weekend indulgence, these brownies promise rich flavor, perfect texture, and a touch of homemade magic. Don’t hesitate—get in the kitchen and whip up a batch today. Your taste buds will thank you!

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