Cream Cheese Cheesecake Brownies – The Ultimate Fudgy Dessert

These Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies are the perfect dessert for chocolate and cheesecake lovers. They feature a rich, chocolaty base and a creamy cheesecake swirl that looks stunning and tastes even better. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or satisfying a weeknight sweet tooth, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Easy to Make: No fancy equipment is needed—just basic kitchen tools and pantry staples.
• Rich and Creamy: The combination of fudgy chocolate and smooth cheesecake is irresistible.
• Beautiful Swirl: Impress your friends and family with a stunning marble effect that’s easier to create than you think.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or mix-ins to make it your own.

Ingredients for cream cheese brownies

Here are the ingredients you will need to make these fudgy cream cheese brownies:

• Butter- You can use salted or unsalted butter.
• Brown sugar and granulated sugar 
• Egg
• Salt
• Dutch cocoa powder
• Flour
• Cream cheese
• Vanilla extract

How to make brownies with cream cheese from scratch?

For the full measurements of the ingredients and the detailed recipe scroll down for the full recipe! You will seriously love it 🙂 

• Pre-heat the oven then line a square pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
• In a medium bowl, whisk the melted butter, the brown sugar, and the granulated sugar together for about 1 minute. Add the eggs and the vanilla and beat until the colors become lighter. (about another minute or two)
• Sift in the flour, cocoa powder and salt and gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined. 
• Pour the cocoa powder brownie batter in the prepared baking pan leaving ¼ cup of brownie batter aside then spread the brownie mixture evenly in the prepared pan.

Make the cream cheese layer

• For the cheesecake mixture place all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and using a paddle attachement, beat everything for about 2 minutes until everything is well incorporated.
• Pour the cheesecake batter over the brownie layer and gently spread. Add 1 tablespoon of water to the ¼ cup of brownie batter and gently mix it to thin it out. scoop out spoonfuls of the thinned-out brownie batter and place it over the cheesecake layer. Repeat this process until you run out of the thinned-out brownie batter. Gently swirl it using a knife or a wooden skewer.
• Bake the brownie in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Let the fudgy cheesecake brownies cool completely before slicing into them. I like to place my brownie in the fridge for at least two hours before slicing into them to get those perfect brownie squares.

Frequently Asked Questions -FAQs

Storage Instructions:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week. This also enhances the flavor and texture.
• Freezer: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

How do I reheat frozen brownies?

Let them thaw at room temperature or microwave for 15-20 seconds for a warm treat.

Variations and Add-Ins:

• Chocolate Chips: Stir in ½ cup for extra gooeyness.
• Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Caramel Drizzle: Swirl caramel sauce into the cheesecake layer for a caramel cheesecake brownie.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I use a boxed brownie mix?

Absolutely! Prepare the boxed mix according to the package instructions for an 8×8 pan. Then, follow the steps for the cheesecake swirl.

What’s the best cream cheese to use in these cream cheese brownies?

Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the creamiest texture. Avoid low-fat or whipped varieties, as they can affect the consistency.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready. The cheesecake layer will also appear set but slightly jiggly.

Why is my cheesecake layer cracking?

Cracks can occur if the oven temperature is too high or if the brownies are overbaked. To avoid this, bake at the specified temperature and check for doneness early.

Tips for Perfect Cheesecake Brownies:

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth cheesecake layer.
2. Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the brownie batter can result in dense, dry brownies.
3. Perfect Swirls: Use a skewer or butter knife to create gentle swirls without overblending.
4. Cooling: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing to prevent them from falling apart.

Cheesecake Brownies recipe

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