Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Delight in the rich and creamy combination of cheesecake and fudgy brownies with this easy-to-make Cheesecake Brownies recipe. By swirling a luscious cream cheese mixture into classic brownie batter, you get a perfect balance of tangy and sweet in every bite. Perfect for dessert lovers looking for a decadent yet simple treat.
- Author: Yana
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Brownie Batter
- 1 box brownie mix (plus required ingredients: vegetable oil, water, and eggs as per package instructions)
- 1 tablespoon water (to thin reserved batter)
Cheesecake Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8 inch square baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Make Brownie Batter: Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions using the specified vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Once mixed, reserve ½ cup of the batter for swirling later.
- Mix Cheesecake Filling: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the egg and mix gently just until combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Layer Brownie Batter: Pour the remaining brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it to cover the bottom.
- Add Cheesecake Dollops: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter layer. Then thin the reserved ½ cup of brownie batter with one tablespoon of water and dollop this on top of the cream cheese mixture.
- Create Swirl Pattern: Using a knife, gently swirl the brownie batter and cheesecake dollops together to create a marbled effect without fully mixing them.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but is not wet with batter.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cheesecake brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This cooling helps them set properly for clean slices.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother cheesecake mixture.
- Do not overmix the cream cheese filling once the egg is added to avoid cracks.
- Check brownies a few minutes before the minimum baking time to prevent overbaking.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the brownie batter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Keywords: cheesecake brownies, cream cheese brownies, dessert brownies, marbled brownies, easy brownies