Cheesecake Brownies

Cheesecake brownies are a match made in dessert heaven, bringing together the rich, chocolatey goodness of brownies and the creamy delight of cheesecake. These treats are not only visually stunning with their marbled effect but also offer a unique flavor combination that is sure to please any crowd. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply as a way to indulge your sweet tooth, these homemade cheesecake brownies are versatile enough to customize with your favorite mix-ins.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The deep chocolate base pairs perfectly with the tangy cheesecake, offering a delightful taste experience.
• Easy to Customize: Add chocolate chips, peanut butter swirls, or fresh fruit for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for celebrations or cozy nights at home; these brownies impress everyone.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious dessert.
• Textures Galore: Enjoy them chilled for firmness or warm for an ultra-gooey experience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch square baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch square baking pan: Ensures even baking and perfect portion sizes for your brownies.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Makes blending ingredients effortless and achieves a smooth cheesecake topping.
• Spatula: Helps in spreading batter evenly and scraping down bowls to get every bit of goodness.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

• 1 cup unsalted butter cubed (227g)
• 1⅓ cups semisweet chocolate chips divided (240g)
• ¾ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 1 cup brown sugar (220g)
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 1 yolk room temperature
• 1 tablespoon brewed coffee
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon hot water plus more if needed

For the Cheesecake Topping

• 2 (8-ounce/227g) blocks cream cheese room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1 pinch salt
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

How to Make Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking pan with butter or baking spray and line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Base

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and 1 cup of chocolate chips. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each one until fully melted and combined—about 2 minutes. Whisk in the cocoa powder.

Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, egg yolk, coffee, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.

Next, add flour and salt; stir together with a spatula until just combined. Reserve ½ cup of brownie batter in a small bowl. Stir in the remaining ⅓ cup of chocolate chips into the rest of the batter and spread it into the prepared pan.

Step 3: Bake the Brownie Base

Bake for 20 minutes for fudgy brownies or up to 30 minutes for cakey ones. While it bakes, stir hot water into the reserved brownie batter until it reaches a thick yet pourable consistency.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Topping

While your brownie base is baking, prepare the cheesecake topping by placing cream cheese, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment on medium speed until very smooth—about 2 minutes.

Reduce speed to low; add eggs one at a time. Scrape down sides of the bowl as needed before beating in vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Brownies and Cheesecake Mixture

Carefully pour cheesecake topping over your par-baked brownie base without cooling it first. Dollop reserved brownie batter on top of cheesecake layer. Use a skewer or knife tip to swirl through both batters gently.

Step 6: Final Baking Steps

Continue baking for another 10 minutes before reducing oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Bake an additional 20 to 25 minutes until cheesecake is puffed around edges while center wobbles slightly. Allow pan to cool completely on wire rack before refrigerating for at least one hour prior to slicing.

Enjoy these delightful cheesecake brownies!

How to Serve Cheesecake Brownies

Cheesecake brownies are incredibly versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want to enhance their flavor or add a touch of elegance, here are some fantastic serving suggestions.

A La Mode

• Serve warm cheesecake brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
• Try pairing with flavored ice creams like mint chocolate chip or salted caramel for a unique twist.

Drizzled with Sauce

• Top your brownies with warm chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
• For a fruity option, drizzle with raspberry or strawberry sauce to complement the creaminess.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Add sliced strawberries or raspberries on top to bring a fresh element to your dessert.
• Consider using blueberries or cherries for a burst of color and flavor.

Sprinkled with Nuts

• Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer.
• Toast the nuts lightly before sprinkling them on top for enhanced flavor.

Served with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fresh whipped cream can elevate the presentation and taste of your cheesecake brownies.
• Consider adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top for added flair.

How to Perfect Cheesecake Brownies

To achieve the ultimate cheesecake brownies, follow these helpful tips. Each step can make a big difference in your final result.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better mixing.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix ingredients until just combined to keep the brownies fudgy and prevent them from becoming tough.
• Swirl Gently: When combining brownie batter with cheesecake mixture, use gentle swirling motions to create beautiful marbling without losing structure.
• Check for Doneness: The center should wobble slightly when done; overbaking will lead to dry brownies.
• Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool fully before slicing. This helps set the cheesecake layer and makes cutting easier.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate for at least an hour after baking; this enhances flavors and improves texture.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesecake Brownies

Pairing cheesecake brownies with complementary side dishes can round out your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness that balances the rich flavors of the brownies.
2. Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy chocolate mousse offers a delicious contrast, enhancing the chocolate notes in the brownies.
3. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee pairs beautifully with sweet desserts like cheesecake brownies, enhancing their flavor profile.
4. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of homemade caramel adds richness and sweetness that amplifies the overall indulgence.
5. Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream brings a tropical twist while being light and fluffy.
6. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside crunchy granola for added texture and an interesting contrast to creamy cheesecake brownies.
7. Mint Tea: Refreshing mint tea can cleanse the palate between bites, making each piece enjoyable.
8. Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy yogurt adds tanginess that complements the sweetness of cheesecake brownies wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making cheesecake brownies, a few common mistakes can affect the texture and flavor of this delightful dessert. Here are some to watch out for:

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold cream cheese or eggs can lead to lumps in your cheesecake mixture. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature before starting.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in tough brownies. Stir until just combined to maintain that fudgy texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Cutting into warm brownies can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for neat pieces.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your brownies as they bake. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
• Not swirling enough: If you don’t swirl the brownie batter into the cheesecake layer, you’ll miss out on that beautiful marbled effect. Be gentle but thorough when swirling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cheesecake brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cheesecake Brownies

• Freeze cheesecake brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Cheesecake Brownies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place brownies in for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for about 20-30 seconds; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covered, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about cheesecake brownies that may help you perfect your recipe.

How do I know when my Cheesecake Brownies are done?

You can tell they’re done when the edges are puffed, and the center has a slight wobble. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I add mix-ins to my Cheesecake Brownies?

Absolutely! You can customize your cheesecake brownies by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even fruit swirls into the brownie batter before baking.

What if my cream cheese is lumpy?

If your cream cheese is lumpy, ensure it is at room temperature before mixing. You can also beat it longer until smooth without overmixing other ingredients.

How can I make my Cheesecake Brownies richer?

To enhance richness, consider using high-quality chocolate chips or adding a bit more cocoa powder. You can also swirl in melted chocolate with the brownie batter.

Final Thoughts

Cheesecake brownies are an indulgent treat that combines two favorite desserts into one delicious bite. The rich chocolatey base paired with creamy cheesecake offers endless customization options. Whether you enjoy them straight from the fridge or warmed up slightly, these brownies are sure to impress any guest or satisfy your own sweet cravings!