Description

These irresistible cheesecake brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate with a creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl for a decadent dessert. Featuring a perfectly moist brownie base layered with a smooth cheesecake mixture, these brownies offer a wonderful balance of textures and flavors with an added nutty crunch and chocolate chips. Simple to make and perfect for any occasion, they are sure to satisfy chocolate lovers and cheesecake fans alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Batter

1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Choose high-quality for best results.)
1 cup Granulated Sugar (Balances the richness of cocoa and cream cheese.)
2 Large Eggs (Use fresh ones for optimal texture.)
1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Essential for the perfect bite.)
1/2 cup Melted Unsalted Butter (Don’t skip this for creamy brownies.)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances and deepens the overall flavors.)
1 cup Chocolate Chips (For extra chocolate flavor.)
1 cup Nuts (Add crushed walnuts or pecans for crunch.)
1/2 cup Peanut Butter (Swirl in for a nutty upgrade.)

Cheesecake Swirl

8 oz Cream Cheese (Opt for full-fat to maximize creaminess.)
1/2 cup Powdered Sugar (Creates a delightful creamy texture.)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances and deepens the overall flavors.)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and provide easy brownie removal.
Mix Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating each until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder and all-purpose flour, folding gently until just combined to maintain a fudgy texture.
Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until completely smooth and lump-free for a creamy consistency.
Layer the Batter: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie base. Add the remaining brownie batter on top to cover the cheesecake layer.
Swirl Layers: Use a knife or skewer to carefully swirl the cheesecake and brownie layers together, creating a marbled effect without fully mixing them.
Add Mix-ins: Sprinkle chocolate chips and nuts evenly over the top, and optionally add dollops or swirls of peanut butter for an extra nutty flavor.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick; 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 properly, then cut into squares and serve for a deliciously rich treat.

Notes

Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture in the cheesecake swirl.
Do not overmix the brownie batter once flour and cocoa are added to keep the brownies fudgy.
Parchment paper lining makes removal from the pan easier and helps achieve neat slices.
Check baking time towards the end as ovens may vary; underbaking slightly keeps them moist.
Optional: For extra flavor, toast the nuts before adding them.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: cheesecake brownies, chocolate brownies, cream cheese swirl, fudgy brownies, chocolate dessert