Description
These Cherry Cheesecake Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a creamy cheesecake layer and a delicious cherry topping. Perfectly swirled and baked to perfection, they offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite, ideal for dessert lovers looking for a decadent treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cherry Topping
- 1 cup cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries, pitted and chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy removal.
- Make the Brownie Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour Brownie Layer: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure a uniform layer.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until well combined without lumps.
- Add Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter in the pan, spreading it evenly. Using a knife, gently swirl the brownie and cheesecake layers together to create a marbled effect.
- Add Cherry Topping: Spoon the cherry pie filling or fresh chopped cherries evenly over the cheesecake layer, distributing them nicely for a balanced flavor.
- Bake: Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, indicating that it is done but still fudgy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares. This helps set the layers and makes them easier to slice and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute cherry pie filling with fresh or frozen cherries for a fresher topping.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the cheesecake layer.
- Do not overbake; aim for moist crumbs on the toothpick for fudgy brownies.
- Use parchment paper to make removing the brownies easier and cleaner.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
