Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and adore the delightful combination of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake accented by a burst of bright cherry, then you are absolutely going to fall in love with this Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe. It brings together a fudgy brownie base, a velvety cheesecake swirl, and a glossy cherry topping to create a dessert that feels both indulgent and refreshingly vibrant. Whether you bake it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, these brownies offer a fantastic harmony of textures and flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe shines because of its simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role: the brownie mix delivers that deep chocolate base, the cheesecake layer adds creamy richness, and the cherry topping brings a fruity pop that lifts the whole dessert.

• Brownie mix: The foundation of our dessert, offering a perfectly fudgy and chocolatey base.
• Eggs, oil, and water: Usually called for by the brownie mix to give the batter structure and moisture.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a smooth, tangy cheesecake layer that contrasts beautifully with chocolate.
• Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the cheesecake mixture without overpowering its delicate flavor.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the cheesecake layer.
• Large egg (1): Helps to make the cheesecake layer rich and creamy while binding the ingredients.
• Sour cream (2 tablespoons): Enhances moisture and tenderness in the cheesecake layer.
• Cherry pie filling (1 can, 21 oz): The star topping that gives these brownies their signature bright, fruity finish.

How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat your oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper so you can easily lift the brownies out later. This preparation step ensures the brownies don’t stick and that their edges bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the brownie base

Follow the instructions on your brownie mix box, typically combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water. This convenient shortcut gives you a dense and fudgy chocolate layer that will support the creamy cheesecake and cherry topping perfectly.

Step 3: Spread the brownie batter

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. This layer acts as the rich base for the cheesecake drizzle and cherry topping, so smooth it out for an even bake.

Step 4: Make the cheesecake layer

In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. This step ensures a creamy, silky cheesecake layer that is sweet but not overpowering.

Step 5: Add the remaining cheesecake ingredients

Mix in the vanilla extract, egg, and sour cream, beating until the mixture is perfectly combined and smooth. This rich batter balances tanginess and sweetness for the perfect cheesecake ripple.

Step 6: Assemble your layers

Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake batter over the brownie batter. Then, use a knife or toothpick to swirl the two together gently. This creates a beautiful marbled effect that’s as lovely to look at as it is to taste.

Step 7: Bake the brownies

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the brownie section — it should come out clean, though the cheesecake part can remain slightly soft. This ensures your brownies stay fudgy without undercooking the cheesecake.

Step 8: Cool and chill

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. Then transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour. Chilling firms up the cheesecake swirl, making it easier to slice and enhancing the flavors.

Step 9: Add the cherry topping

Once chilled, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer. This topping offers a vibrant burst of fruitiness and color that makes these Cherry Cheesecake Brownies incredibly irresistible.

Step 10: Serve and enjoy

Cut the brownies into squares and serve. The rich, fudgy chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and sweet-tart cherries create a sensational flavor combination that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle some toasted almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar on top for added texture and visual appeal. Fresh cherries or a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce also make gorgeous garnishes that complement the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream. The cold creaminess balances the richness while enhancing the overall dessert experience. A cup of hot coffee or tea also works wonderfully to balance sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Cherry Cheesecake Brownies on a beautiful platter with sprigs of fresh mint to brighten the presentation. You can also slice them into bite-sized pieces for a party tray or layer them with a glass of milk in individual dessert jars for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover brownies covered tightly in the refrigerator. Stored this way, they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days while maintaining that creamy cheesecake texture and rich brownie flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container. They freeze well for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

To enjoy these brownies warm, pop individual squares in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the cheesecake smooth and the cherry topping fresh and flavorful.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a box mix?

Absolutely! This Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe works beautifully with your favorite homemade brownie recipe. Just make sure it yields a batter with a fudgy consistency for the best results.

Is it necessary to chill the brownies before adding the cherry topping?

Chilling helps set the cheesecake layer so that it doesn’t blend into the cherry topping. If you skip this step, the cherry filling may sink or mix into the cheesecake, affecting the texture and presentation.

Can I substitute the cherry pie filling with fresh cherries?

You can use fresh cherries, but you’ll want to cook them down with some sugar to create a thicker topping similar to pie filling. This helps ensure the cherries don’t release too much liquid that might make the brownies soggy.

What’s the best way to achieve the swirl pattern?

Drop spoonfuls of cheesecake batter on top of the brownie batter and then gently swirl with a knife or toothpick. Avoid over-mixing so you keep distinct ribbons of cheesecake within the brownies.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free brownie mix or homemade gluten-free batter in this Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe, and double-check the cherry pie filling ingredients to ensure they contain no gluten additives.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a special treat but comes together with ease, you have to try this Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe. It’s a delightful mashup of flavors and textures that brings together everything you love about brownies, cheesecake, and cherries in one luscious bite. I promise once you taste these, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite for your dessert repertoire!

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