Indulge in the perfect fusion of rich, fudgy brownies and creamy cheesecake with this delightful cheesecake brownies recipe. This dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests with its beautiful marbled appearance and decadent taste.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, but you might need to pick up cream cheese if you don't usually keep it on hand. Make sure to get the full-fat version for the best texture and flavor. Additionally, ensure you have unsweetened cocoa powder for that rich chocolatey taste.
Ingredients For Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Melted butter: Provides moisture and richness to the brownie batter.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the brownie and cheesecake layers.
Eggs: Acts as a binding agent and adds structure to both layers.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of both the brownie and cheesecake layers.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the brownies their deep chocolate flavor.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the brownies.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Baking powder: Helps the brownies rise and become fluffy.
Cream cheese: Creates the creamy cheesecake layer.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer.
Egg: Adds structure to the cheesecake layer.
Vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the cheesecake layer.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When preparing the cream cheese layer, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. This will help achieve a smooth and lump-free mixture, making it easier to spread over the brownie batter. If the cream cheese is too cold, it can result in a lumpy texture that won't blend well. To soften cream cheese quickly, you can cut it into smaller pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
melted unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, adding a slight coconut flavor that complements the chocolate.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor that pairs well with chocolate.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, making it a good alternative for those avoiding caffeine.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour is gluten-free and adds a nutty flavor, though it may result in a denser texture.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different mineral content and flavor profile.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar to replace 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
softened cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a lower-fat option that still provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey is a natural sweetener that adds moisture and a distinct flavor.
large egg - Substitute with silken tofu: Use ¼ cup of blended silken tofu per egg. This is a good vegan alternative that helps with binding and adds creaminess.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique sweetness and depth of flavor.
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How to Store / Freeze Your Brownies
Allow the cheesecake brownies to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dessert soggy.
Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares. This makes it easier to grab a piece whenever you crave a sweet treat.
For short-term storage, place the brownies in an airtight container. You can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
If you prefer to keep them fresh for a longer period, store the brownies in the refrigerator. Again, use an airtight container and layer with parchment paper if needed. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
For freezing, wrap each brownie square individually in plastic wrap. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.
Place the individually wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the brownies in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. This ensures they return to their delicious, fudgy state.
For a quick thaw, you can microwave the brownies for a few seconds, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can alter the texture.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the cheesecake brownies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the texture of both the brownie and cheesecake layers.
Microwave Method: Place a cheesecake brownie on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check the temperature and heat in additional 10-second intervals if needed. Be cautious not to overheat, as the cream cheese layer can become too soft.
Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the cheesecake brownies on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray. Heat for about 10 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure they don't overcook. This method is great for achieving a slightly crisp edge while keeping the inside moist.
Steam Method: If you have a steamer, place the cheesecake brownies on a heatproof plate and steam for about 5 minutes. This method helps retain moisture and prevents the brownies from drying out.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to bake the cheesecake brownies at the specified temperature.
Baking pan: Greased to hold the brownie batter and cheesecake mixture during baking.
Mixing bowl: Needed to combine the ingredients for both the brownie batter and the cheesecake layer.
Whisk: Used to mix the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Spatula: Helps in stirring the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and spreading the cheesecake layer evenly.
Electric mixer: Useful for beating the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Knife: Used to swirl the dollops of remaining brownie batter into the cheesecake layer.
Toothpick: Inserted into the center of the brownies to check for doneness.
Cooling rack: Allows the brownies to cool evenly before cutting into squares.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the process and ensure you don't miss anything.
Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can save time when mixing the brownie batter and cheesecake layer.
Room temperature cream cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
One-bowl brownies: Mix the brownie batter in one bowl to reduce cleanup time.
Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven while preparing the batter to save time.
Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth.
- Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over the brownie batter in the pan.
- Dollop the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer and swirl with a knife.
- Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool before cutting into squares.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses
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