Description

Indulgent Cheesecake Brownies blend rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl. These decadent treats offer the perfect balance of dense chocolate and smooth cream cheese, baked to perfection in an 8×8-inch pan. Ideal as a dessert or a special snack, they are simple to prepare and sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Batter

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract

Cheesecake Mixture

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional

1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
Make Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to create a smooth mixture.
Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder and all-purpose flour to the wet mixture. Stir gently until the batter is just combined, avoiding over-mixing for tender brownies.
Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, without lumps.
Layer Batter and Cheesecake: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture evenly over the batter, then use a knife or skewer to swirl the cheesecake into the brownie layer for a marbled effect. If using, sprinkle chocolate chips on top, then pour the remaining brownie batter over and repeat the swirling process.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan to set the texture before cutting into squares. Serve at room temperature and enjoy your indulgent cheesecake brownies.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother cheesecake mixture and easier swirling.
Do not overbake to keep brownies fudgy and moist.
Swirling too aggressively can blend cheesecake too much with brownie batter; gentle swirling creates a better marbling effect.
Optional chocolate chips add texture and extra chocolate flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: cheesecake brownies, fudgy brownies, chocolate cheesecake dessert, swirl brownies, easy brownie recipe