Introduction

Cheesecake brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate with a creamy cheesecake swirl for a decadent treat. They’re easy to make using a boxed brownie mix and a simple cream cheese topping. Perfect for satisfying both brownie and cheesecake cravings in one bite.

Cheesecake Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients as required – typically vegetable oil, water, and eggs)
8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
⅓ cup sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 egg

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8 square baking dish with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions and reserve ½ cup of the batter.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add the egg and mix gently until just combined.
Step 4: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared dish and drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over it.
Step 5: Thin out the reserved brownie batter with a tablespoon of water and dollop it on top before swirling gently with a knife.
Step 6: Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Allow cooling completely before cutting into squares.

Tips & Variations

Use full-fat cream cheese for the best creamy texture and flavor in the cheesecake layer.
Try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the brownie batter for extra texture.
Swirl the cheesecake layer with a toothpick or skewer to create beautiful marbling without overmixing.

Storage

Store cheesecake brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving or warm briefly in the microwave for a soft texture. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a box mix?

Absolutely! Homemade brownie batter works just as well and allows you to customize the flavor. Just reserve half a cup for the swirl as directed.

Why is my cheesecake layer cracking?

Cracks can happen if the cheesecake mixture is overbeaten or baked at too high a temperature. Mix gently until just combined and bake at the recommended temperature to prevent cracking.

Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

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4.9 from 148 reviews

Decadent and rich cheesecake brownies featuring a fudgy brownie base swirled with a creamy, sweet cheesecake layer. These soft and moist brownies combine the best of both desserts, making them a perfect treat for chocolate and cheesecake lovers alike.

Author: Cleo
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies (cut into 2-inch squares) 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Batter

1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients required – typically vegetable oil, water, and eggs as per package instructions)

Cheesecake Swirl

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 egg

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8 inch square baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
Make Brownie Batter: Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, typically combining the mix with vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Reserve ½ cup of the prepared brownie batter for later use.
Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and gently mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
Layer Brownie Batter: Pour the remaining brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Add Cheesecake Dollops: Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter.
Create Swirl Effect: Thin out the reserved ½ cup of brownie batter by adding one tablespoon of water and mix until it loosens. Dollop this batter on top of the cheesecake mixture. Using a knife, gently swirl the brownie batter through the cheesecake to create a marbled effect.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the cheesecake mixture.
You can customize the brownies by adding chocolate chips or nuts to the brownie batter if desired.
Make sure not to overbake to maintain a moist and fudgy texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
The swirling can be adjusted depending on how much cheesecake appearance you want in the brownies.

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