The Cheesecake Brownie recipe brings together two beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. With a rich brownie base and a creamy cheesecake topping, Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you create cheesecake brownies that look and taste amazing. Plus, you’ll find tips, variations, and answers to common questions to ensure your recipe turns out perfectly.
What is a Cheesecake Brownie?
Cheesecake brownies combine two iconic desserts: the dense, chocolatey goodness of brownies and the smooth, tangy creaminess of cheesecake. The result is a beautifully layered treat that offers the best of both worlds in each bite. Whether for a casual snack or an elegant dinner party dessert, these brownies are a surefire crowd-pleaser.
A Brief History of Cheesecake Brownies
The origins of cheesecake brownies are hard to pinpoint, but they’re believed to be a modern twist on traditional brownie recipes. As bakers looked to innovate, pairing the rich textures of cheesecake and brownies became a natural evolution. Popularized in bakeries and dessert cookbooks, this hybrid dessert gained a following among those who craved indulgence and creativity in the same bite.
Why We Love This Cheesecake Brownie Recipe!
- Double the Flavor: You don’t have to choose between cheesecake and brownies anymore. This recipe gives you both in one dessert!
- Show-Stopping Appeal: The marbled or layered appearance makes these brownies visually stunning.
- Customizable: From adding a chocolate drizzle to mixing in nuts, the possibilities are endless.
- Great for All Occasions: These brownies are perfect for everything from birthday parties to potlucks.
Ingredients with Quantities for Cheesecake Brownie Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these cheesecake brownies:
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1 cup (230 grams) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups (400 grams) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup (125 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (85 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 3 packages (8 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup (120 grams) sour cream
- 2/3 cup (135 grams) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Optional: 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted (for drizzle)
How to Make Cheesecake Brownies
1. Prepare the Brownie Layer
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the surface is set but not fully cooked through.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream until creamy and lump-free.
- Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing at a low speed to prevent over-aeration. scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.
3. Assemble and Bake
- Carefully pour the cheesecake batter over the baked brownie layer, spreading it into an even layer.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges of the cheesecake are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
- Remove from the oven and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until completely chilled.
4. Finish and Serve
- Once chilled, slice into squares. If desired, drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra touch of decadence.
- Serve cold and watch them disappear!
Expert Tips for the Cheesecake Brownie Recipe
- Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a smoother batter for both layers.
- Don’t Overbake: The cheesecake should have a slight wobble in the center when done. It will set as it cools.
- Line Your Pan: Parchment paper makes it easier to lift the brownies out of the pan for slicing.
- Chill Before Slicing: This prevents the layers from smearing and helps achieve cleaner cuts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Chill Time: Patience is key for the perfect texture.
- Overmixing the Batter: This can make the brownie layer dense and the cheesecake layer overly airy.
- Using Cold Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your batter.
Vegan Adaptations
Want to make a plant-based version? Here are some swaps:
- Replace cream cheese with vegan cream cheese.
- Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
- Replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based vegan butter alternative.
Variations to Try
- Swirl It Up: Create a marbled effect by swirling a small amount of brownie batter into the cheesecake layer before baking.
- Add a Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts or crushed cookies between the layers.
- Flavor Boost: Mix in a teaspoon of espresso powder to the brownie batter for a mocha twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a light contrast to the richness.
- Pair with fresh berries for a refreshing pop of flavor.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients needed to make cheesecake brownies?
To make cheesecake brownies, you need chocolate, butter, sugar, eggs, cream cheese, and flour. These ingredients mix to create a dessert that’s both rich in chocolate and creamy.
How do you prepare the brownie batter for cheesecake brownies?
First, melt the chocolate and butter. Then, mix in sugar, eggs, and flour. This makes the fudgy, chocolatey base of the cheesecake brownies.
What is the process for creating the creamy cheesecake topping?
For the cheesecake topping, beat cream cheese, sugar, and eggs until smooth. This topping is then layered on the brownie batter before baking.
How can you ensure your cheesecake brownies turn out moist and fudgy?
To get the right texture, don’t overbake the brownies. This can make them dry. Also, make sure the cheesecake topping is smooth and creamy for a rich dessert.
What makes cheesecake brownies suitable for any occasion?
Cheesecake brownies are great for any event, from family gatherings to holiday parties. Their mix of chocolate and creamy cheesecake makes them a hit at any occasion.
Bake Your Perfect Cheesecake Brownie Recipe Today!
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to start baking this cheesecake brownies recipe.
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Equipment :
The best cheesecake brownie recipe
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1 cup 230 grams unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups 400 grams granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup 125 grams all-purpose flour
- 1 cup 85 grams unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 3 packages 8 ounces each
- 1/2 cup 120 grams sour cream
- 2/3 cup 135 grams granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- Optional: 2 ounces semi-sweet chocolate melted (for drizzle)
Instructions
Prepare the Brownie Layer
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the surface is set but not fully cooked through.
Make the Cheesecake Layer
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream until creamy and lump-free.
- Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing at a low speed to prevent over-aeration. scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.
Assemble and Bake
- Carefully pour the cheesecake batter over the baked brownie layer, spreading it into an even layer.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges of the cheesecake are set but the center still has a slight jiggle.
- Remove from the oven and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until completely chilled.
Finish and Serve
- Once chilled, slice into squares. If desired, drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra touch of decadence.
- Serve cold and watch them disappear!