If you have a craving that calls for fudgy, rich brownies with a luscious cheesecake swirl and a burst of vibrant cherry goodness, you simply have to try this Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe. It brings together the best of three worlds in one heavenly dessert that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to your taste buds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to treat yourself (and why not?), these brownies are sure to become a fast favorite, bursting with creamy texture, tangy sweetness, and that irresistible chocolate depth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of its ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—whether it’s creating a rich brownie base, a smooth cheesecake layer, or that iconic cherry topping that electrifies every bite.
- Brownie mix: Using a box brownie mix keeps things easy and consistent, providing a dense, chocolaty foundation.
- Eggs, oil, and water: These typical ingredients for the brownie mix make the batter moist and tender.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The star of the cheesecake layer, offering tartness and creaminess.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Sweetens the cheesecake filling to balance the tang.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake flavor.
- Large egg (1): Binds the cheesecake mixture for that perfect silky texture.
- Sour cream (2 tablespoons): Provides moistness and a subtle tanginess to smooth the cheesecake layer.
- Cherry pie filling (1 can, 21 oz): Bursting with juicy cherries and syrup, this topping brings color, flavor, and a touch of tartness to the final dessert.
How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper—this little step makes removing the brownies a breeze later on!
Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter
Follow the instructions on your brownie mix box by combining the brownie mix with eggs, oil, and water. This straightforward step creates that rich, fudgy base that’s essential to this recipe.
Step 3: Spread the Brownie Batter
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and use a spatula to smooth it out evenly. A level layer ensures that your brownies bake uniformly, giving you an even texture from edge to center.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then add vanilla extract, the egg, and sour cream, mixing everything until fully combined and silky. This luscious cheesecake layer will swirl beautifully into the brownie base.
Step 5: Swirl the Cheesecake Layer
Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake batter over the brownie layer. Using a knife or toothpick, swirl the cheesecake gently into the brownie batter to create that addictive marbled effect everyone loves.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for a toothpick inserted into the brownie portion to come out clean, even if the cheesecake appears a bit soft—that’s perfect for creamy brownies.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Allow the brownies to cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes, then transfer them to the refrigerator to chill for at least an hour. This step helps the layers set up nicely and keeps everything firm for topping.
Step 8: Add the Cherry Topping and Serve
After chilling, generously spread the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer. Cut into squares and get ready for a slice of decadent delight that’s truly irresistible!
How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your brownies by sprinkling chopped toasted almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar on top. Fresh cherries or mint leaves can also add a fresh contrast, making each piece picture-perfect and bursting with flavor.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a cozy touch, a cup of strong coffee or a rich hot chocolate complements the sweet and tangy layers wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re bringing these Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe treats to a gathering, serve them layered on a pretty platter with little dessert forks or cut them into bite-sized cubes for an elegant finger food option. You could even layer them in glass jars for a fun and handy dessert parfait!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying these brownies, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay delicious and fresh for up to 4 days, making them perfect for quick snacks or unexpected guests.
Freezing
You can freeze the brownies, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to keep that cheesecake layer creamy and luscious.
Reheating
Warm up individual servings gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked feel. Be careful not to heat too long or you might melt the cherry topping, but a slight warmth really livens up the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownies for this Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! Whether you use a box mix or a homemade recipe, the important part is a rich and fudgy brownie base. Just make sure it’s not too cakey for the best texture contrast with the cheesecake.
Is there a way to make the cheesecake layer less tangy?
You can reduce the sour cream slightly or swap it for Greek yogurt if you prefer a milder tang. However, the slight tartness really balances the sweetness of the cherry topping beautifully.
Can I substitute the cherry pie filling with fresh cherries?
Fresh cherries can be used, but you’ll want to cook them down with a little sugar and lemon juice to mimic the pie filling texture and flavor. This will help your topping hold together nicely on the brownies.
How do I get the perfect swirl without mixing the layers too much?
Drop the cheesecake batter gently onto the brownie layer and use a knife to swirl in slow, circular motions. Avoid over-mixing; you want pretty marbled streaks rather than a blended mess!
Can these brownies be kept at room temperature?
Because of the cheesecake layer, it’s best to refrigerate these brownies to maintain food safety and freshness. Room temperature storage is not recommended for more than a couple of hours.
Final Thoughts
Friends, this Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is truly a game-changer for your dessert lineup. It’s simple, dazzling, and absolutely delicious—combining rich brownies, velvety cheesecake, and juicy cherry topping in one unforgettable bite. Give this recipe a whirl and watch it disappear at your next gathering or family night!
Print
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
These Cherry Cheesecake Brownies combine rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy cheesecake layer swirled in, topped with sweet cherry pie filling for a delightful dessert that’s perfect for gatherings or an indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box brownie mix (or your favorite homemade brownie recipe)
- Ingredients called for on the brownie mix box (typically eggs, oil, and water)
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
Cherry Topping
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, typically combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water.
- Pour the Brownie Batter: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out into an even layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add Remaining Cheesecake Ingredients: Add the vanilla extract, egg, and sour cream, and beat until everything is fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble the Brownies: Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cheesecake batter into the brownie batter to create a marble effect.
- Bake the Brownies: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the brownie portion comes out clean (the cheesecake layer may still appear slightly soft).
- Cool and Chill: Let the brownies cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes, then transfer them to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Add the Cherry Topping: Once the brownies have chilled and set, top them with the cherry pie filling, spreading it evenly over the cheesecake layer.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy!
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is properly softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal of the brownies from the pan.
- Chilling the brownies before adding the cherry topping helps the layers set firmly.
- You can substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit pie fillings for variety.
- For a more pronounced marbling effect, swirl more gently with a knife or toothpick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
