If you’ve ever found yourself torn between a rich, chocolatey brownie and a lusciously creamy cheesecake, you’re in for an absolute treat: Cheesecake Brownies. This recipe marries the best of both worlds in every bite, combining a fudgy brownie base with smooth, swirled cheesecake, all baked into a dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious. It’s one of those showstopper treats that will have friends and family begging for the recipe before they’ve even finished their first square.

Cheesecake Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy to whip up a batch of Cheesecake Brownies. Each ingredient brings something special to the table, whether it’s flavor, texture, or the perfect swirl. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a tip for each:

Unsalted butter (melted): Using melted butter ensures a fudgy brownie texture and deep flavor.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies and helps create that signature crackly top.
Large eggs: Essential for richness and binding both layers together.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the chocolate and cheesecake flavors.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the brownies intense, pure chocolate flavor.
All-purpose flour: Just enough to give structure without making the brownies cakey.
Salt: A pinch enhances the chocolate and balances the sweetness.
Baking powder: Adds a little lift, ensuring the brownies aren’t too dense.
Cream cheese (softened): The star of the cheesecake swirl; softening makes it easier to blend smooth.
Granulated sugar (for cheesecake layer): Sweetens the creamy swirl without overpowering its tang.
Large egg (for cheesecake layer): Helps set the cheesecake and gives it a silky finish.
Vanilla extract (for cheesecake layer): Enhances the classic cheesecake flavor profile.

How to Make Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting a bit hang over the edges for easy lifting later. This little step makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your Cheesecake Brownies come out in perfect squares.

Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until well combined and glossy. Add the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir just until all the dry ingredients disappear—no overmixing! The key is to make sure your brownies stay supremely fudgy.

Step 3: Layer the Batter

Pour most of the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer. Be sure to reserve about 1/4 cup of the batter—this is what you’ll use later to create that gorgeous swirl.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy (a hand mixer is great here, but a strong arm works too!). Add 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 egg, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully blended and luxuriously smooth—no lumps allowed for the perfect cheesecake swirl.

Step 5: Assemble and Swirl

Carefully spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie base, taking care not to dig into the brownie layer. Drop small spoonfuls of your reserved brownie batter on top, then gently swirl everything together with a butter knife or a skewer. Create those beautiful marbled patterns without overmixing—less is more here for an eye-catching effect.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. You’ll know your Cheesecake Brownies are ready when the center looks set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). If you’re after extra fudgy brownies, check them at the earlier end of the time range and pull them once the edges look set.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

This is the hardest part—waiting! Let your brownies cool completely in the pan. For the cleanest slices, chill the pan in the fridge for at least an hour before cutting. Then lift them out using the parchment and slice into neat, gorgeous squares. Prepare for oohs and aahs!

How to Serve Cheesecake Brownies

Garnishes

For a simple finish, dust your Cheesecake Brownies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar. If you’re feeling fancy, add fresh berries, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even a dollop of whipped cream. Mint leaves make a pretty, fresh addition too—presentation counts, even with comfort food!

Side Dishes

Pair these indulgent squares with a glass of cold milk or a steaming mug of coffee for a classic treat. For a more decadent spread, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a tangy fruit salad to cut through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the brownies high on a vintage cake stand for a party-ready centerpiece, or wrap individual squares in parchment with baker’s twine for a charming homemade gift. You can also cut the brownies into fun shapes using cookie cutters for birthday parties or special occasions—the swirled cheesecake design will still shine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesecake Brownies (if you have any!) can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cheesecake layer stays creamy, and the brownie gets even fudgier after a night in the fridge.

Freezing

Cheesecake Brownies freeze beautifully. Arrange the cooled, cut brownies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a quick dessert pick-me-up.

Reheating

If you like your brownies warm, heat a square in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. They’ll be soft, gooey, and taste freshly baked. For best results, reheat only as many as you plan to eat immediately—repeated heating can dry them out.

FAQs

Why do my Cheesecake Brownies crack on top?

Often, cracks occur if the oven is too hot or the brownies are overbaked. Don’t worry, though—cracks are mostly cosmetic and won’t affect the delicious taste or creamy texture of your brownies.

Can I double this recipe for a bigger batch?

Absolutely! Double all the ingredients and bake the Cheesecake Brownies in a 9×13-inch pan. Keep an eye on the baking time; they may need a few extra minutes, but the results will be just as decadent.

Do I have to use parchment paper?

Using parchment makes lifting and slicing the brownies truly effortless, and ensures clean edges for the cheesecake swirl. If you don’t have parchment, greasing the pan thoroughly also works—just be extra gentle when removing the brownies.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Definitely! Stir in a cup of chocolate chips, toasted walnuts, or pecans into the brownie batter before baking for extra texture and flavor. Just remember that additions may slightly alter baking time.

How do I get neat, bakery-style cuts?

Cooling the pan completely and even chilling it before slicing makes all the difference. Use a long, sharp knife, dipping it in hot water and wiping it clean between cuts for those perfectly crisp edges.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these Cheesecake Brownies—every bite is a little celebration of flavor and texture. They’re easier to make than you might think, but taste like you spent all afternoon in the kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them at a get-together or saving them all for yourself, I promise these brownies will become a fast favorite. Happy baking!

Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

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4.6 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 9 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the perfect combination of rich, fudgy brownies and creamy cheesecake with this easy recipe for Cheesecake Brownies. These decadent treats are a delightful twist on traditional brownies, blending two beloved desserts into one irresistible bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Layer:

1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Cheesecake Layer:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix brownie batter: In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, 1 cup sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined. Pour most of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, reserving about 1/4 cup for swirling.
Prepare cheesecake layer: In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, mixing until creamy. Spread the cream cheese layer evenly over the brownie batter.
Swirl and bake: Drop spoonfuls of the reserved brownie batter on top and use a knife to swirl gently. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and slice: Let cool completely before slicing.