Cheese Brownies
This recipe combines the rich flavors of brownies with a creamy cheese layer, creating a unique and indulgent dessert experience.
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Brownie Layer: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter and dark chocolate together over a pot of simmering water or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently until smooth.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until thick and pale.
- Add the melted chocolate mixture to the egg mixture and whisk until well combined.
- Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, and fold gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Prepare the Cheese Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until fully incorporated.
- Dollop the cheese mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cheese mixture into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set and the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 1 hour before slicing.
- Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Mocha Cheesecake Brownies:
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of espresso powder to the brownie batter for a rich mocha flavor that complements the chocolate.
- Caramel Swirl Brownies:
- Drizzle a few tablespoons of caramel sauce over the brownie layer just before swirling the cheesecake mixture. This adds a sweet and gooey layer to the brownies.
- Berry Cheesecake Brownies:
- Incorporate raspberry jam or strawberry sauce by dropping spoonfuls onto the brownie batter before swirling. You can also add fresh berries between the layers.
- Nutty Brownies:
- Stir in chopped nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the brownie batter for added crunch and texture.
- Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Brownies:
- Add chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white) to the brownie batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
- Mint Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies:
- Use mint chocolate chips in the brownie batter and add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cheesecake layer for a refreshing twist.
- Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies:
- Mix in peanut butter into the cheesecake layer before swirling. This adds a delicious nutty flavor that pairs well with chocolate.
- Cherry Cheesecake Brownies:
- Add a layer of cherry pie filling or fresh cherries between the brownie and cheesecake layers for a fruity contrast.
- Coconut Cheesecake Brownies:
- Stir in shredded coconut into the cheesecake layer for a tropical flavor. Top with toasted coconut flakes for added texture.
- Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Brownies:
- Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice to the cheesecake layer for a seasonal twist, perfect for fall.
| Nutritional Information (Per Serving) | |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Cholesterol | 115 mg |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 20 g |
| Protein | 4 g |