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Decadent cheesecake brownies with creamy swirl on fudgy brownie base

Cheesecake Brownies

Cheesecake brownies combine rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy cheesecake swirl, perfect for satisfying chocolate and cheesecake cravings with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 16 squares
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Brownie Layer
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted for that rich, fudgy brownie bite
  • 1 cup granulated sugar needed for that shiny top
  • 2 large eggs for structure and chewy texture
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract enhances both brownie and cheesecake layers
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder provides deep chocolate flavor
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour adds just enough structure
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt makes chocolate taste more like chocolate
Cheesecake Layer
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened essential for the swirl
  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar or granulated sugar either works for the cheesecake layer
  • 1 egg yolk or 1 whole egg yolk makes it creamier
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract adds flavor to cheesecake layer

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment and lightly grease.
Brownie Batter
  1. In a bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until glossy.
  2. Add eggs and vanilla and whisk again.
  3. Stir in cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just combined. Do not overmix.
Cheesecake Layer
  1. In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth.
  2. Add the egg yolk or egg and a splash of vanilla. Mix until creamy.
Assembly
  1. Spread about three quarters of the brownie batter into the pan.
  2. Dollop cheesecake mixture on top in spoonfuls.
  3. Add the remaining brownie batter in little blobs and swirl gently with a knife or toothpick.
Baking
  1. Bake for about 28 to 35 minutes. The edges should be set and the center slightly jiggly.
Cooling
  1. Let them cool fully so the cheesecake sets before slicing.
  2. For super neat squares, chill for an hour first.

Notes

For a fudgy brownie, do not overbake and ensure cream cheese is softened for smooth swirls. Store in the fridge due to the cream cheese layer.