Introduction

Cheesecake brownies are the perfect marriage of rich, fudgy chocolate and creamy cheesecake swirls. This indulgent dessert combines two favorites in one easy-to-make treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

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 a richer, creamier swirl that holds its shape better during baking.
Try adding mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the brownie batter for extra texture and flavor.
Swirl the cream cheese mixture gently to create pretty marbled patterns without fully mixing it in.
For a raspberry twist, add fresh or frozen raspberries under the cream cheese dollops before swirling.

Storage

Store leftover cheesecake brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy chilled for a fudgy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make cheesecake brownies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and bake them a day in advance. Keep them refrigerated and bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a mix?

Absolutely! Homemade brownie batter works wonderfully and allows you to customize the flavor and texture to your liking.

Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 716 reviews

Delight in the rich and creamy combination of chocolate brownie and velvety cheesecake with these luscious Cheesecake Brownies, featuring a fudgy brownie base swirled with a smooth cream cheese layer for a perfect dessert treat.

Author: Kai
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Batter

1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients as required – typically vegetable oil, water, and eggs)
1 tablespoon water (for thinning reserved batter)

Cheesecake Mixture

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

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease removal of the brownies.
Prepare Brownie Batter: Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, using the required vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Set aside ½ cup of the batter for later use.
Make Cheesecake Mixture: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Layer Brownie Batter: Pour the remaining brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to form the base layer.
Add Cheesecake Mixture: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter evenly across the surface.
Top with Reserved Batter and Swirl: Thin out the reserved ½ cup of brownie batter by mixing it with a tablespoon of water. Dollop this thinned batter over the cream cheese layer, then use a knife to gently swirl the layers together creating a marbled effect.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, indicating fudgy brownies.
Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares to serve.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
Be gentle when mixing the cheesecake layer to maintain its creamy texture.
Use parchment paper to easily lift brownies out of the pan after baking.
Do not overbake; the brownies should be fudgy with moist crumbs.
Swirling the batter creates an elegant marbled appearance and combines flavors beautifully.

Keywords: cheesecake brownies, dessert, brownie recipe, cream cheese swirl, baked brownies