Description
Delight in these Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars, a luscious layered dessert combining fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake, and sweet cherry topping with optional chocolate chips for an extra touch of richness. Perfectly baked for a smooth, decadent treat that’s easy to make and ideal for entertaining or a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Layer
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Cherry Topping
- 1 cup cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the brownie layer: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar, mixing until smooth and well blended. Add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, stirring until incorporated. Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder, flour, and salt, then gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined. Spread this brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Prepare the cheesecake layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to create a light cheesecake batter. Carefully spread this cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer in the pan, being gentle to avoid mixing the two layers.
- Add the cherry topping and swirl: Spoon dollops of cherry pie filling evenly across the surface of the cheesecake layer. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cherries into the cheesecake to create a marbled effect. If desired, sprinkle semisweet chocolate chips over the top to add extra richness.
- Bake the bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. Avoid overbaking to maintain a creamy cheesecake texture.
- Cool and chill: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours to set fully and make slicing easier.
- Slice and serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. For clean slices, wipe your knife between each cut. Serve chilled and enjoy the rich layers of chocolate, cheesecake, and cherries.
Notes
- Use homemade cherry compote for a less sweet, more natural cherry flavor.
- Wiping your knife clean between cuts helps achieve neat, clean slices.
- These bars can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld.
- For added richness, sprinkle semisweet chocolate chips over the cherry topping before baking.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
