Cheesecake Swirled Brownies (Print View)
Fudgy chocolate brownies marbled with creamy cheesecake swirl for an indulgent dessert experience.
# Ingredient List:
→ Brownie Layer
01 - 6 oz unsalted butter, melted
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
06 - 3/4 cup plus 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
07 - 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
08 - 1/2 tsp salt
09 - 3.5 oz dark chocolate, chopped or chips
→ Cheesecake Swirl
10 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
11 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
12 - 1 large egg
13 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
# How to Make:
01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
03 - Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in the chopped chocolate.
04 - Reserve about 1/4 cup of the brownie batter. Pour the remaining batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
05 - In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until creamy. Add granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
06 - Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan.
07 - Drop spoonfuls of the reserved brownie batter over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the two batters together for a marbled effect.
08 - Bake for 32 to 35 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
09 - Allow to cool completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting into squares.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The contrast between fudgy chocolate and tangy cream cheese creates layers of flavor in every bite
- These look impressive but come together with simple techniques you already know
- They actually improve overnight, making them perfect for make ahead dessert planning
02 -
- Resist checking them too early, opening the oven door causes the temperature to drop and affects the texture
- The cream cheese layer should still jiggle slightly when you remove them from the oven
- Completely cooling before cutting is nonnegotiable or the swirl will blur and edges will crumble
03 -
- Room temperature ingredients are your secret weapon for smooth, lump free cream cheese swirl
- A hot water bath for your cream cheese while you prep other ingredients speeds up softening