Why We Love This Dessert Recipe
We have a glorious cheesecake brownie recipe with a silky Bailey’s cream cheese layer on top here on the site. However, if you’re looking for a classic Cheesecake Brownies recipe this is our favorite version. These super fudgy brownies are layered with a delicate cream cheese layer, then swirled loosely with the brownie batter and baked. The result is a warm treat that’s gooey and tender, with just the right amount of tanginess from the cream cheese plus the chocolatey goodness you crave. This recipe is easy to make, easy to adjust with flavored extract, and perfect for every occasion!
Ingredients You Need
For the Brownie Layer –
Granulated sugar – your choice of white sugar or coconut sugar All-purpose flour – or gluten-free alternative Cocoa powder – use high quality for the best taste and texture Salt – just a pinch Butter – melted and cooled slightly Eggs – at room temperature Vanilla extract – to enhance the chocolaty flavor Chocolate chips – semi-sweet or dark chocolate
For the Cheesecake Layer –
Cream cheese – softened Sugar – granulated white sugar or coconut sugar Eggs – at room temperature Vanilla extract – helps balance the sweetness
How to Make Cheesecake Brownies
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line a 9 X 13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil. For the Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl combine sugar, flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir well. Then whisk in melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Finally, stir in the chocolate chips. For the Cream Cheese Swirl: In a separate bowl combine the cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat with a hand mixer until very smooth. Spread two-thirds of the brownie batter in the prepared baking dish. Spread the cheesecake layer over the brownie batter. Then dollop the remaining brownie batter over the top of the cream cheese layer. Use a butter knife to swirl the brownie batter and cheesecake together in a pretty pattern. Bake for 35-45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely, then cut into 24-30 pieces. Pro Tip: For clean-edged squares, wipe the knife with a wet paper towel between cuts.
Recipe Variations
Brownie mix – Want to save some time? Use your favorite store-bought box brownie mix. Or do what we do and keep a jar of homemade brownie mix in the pantry for just such an occasion. Gluten-free – Sub all-purpose flour with your preferred GF-friendly replacement. Dairy-free – Easily make this a dairy-free brownie recipe by using your fave plant-based cream cheese and butter alternatives. Cream cheese – Use low fat for a slightly lighter dessert, if you like. Extra goodies – Feel free to sprinkle on chopped nuts, toasted shaved coconut, crushed cookie pieces, or other tasty extras before baking.
Looking for More Classic Dessert Recipes? Be Sure to Try:
Strawberry Brownies with Chocolate Frosting Ultimate Brownie Cookies Gooey Caramel Brownies Brownie Cake (Gluten-free!) S’mores Brownies Brownie Cookies with Toffee Bits
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