Fudgy Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Indulge in Our Dreamy Fudgy Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Chocolate lovers swoon over these decadent cheesecake brownies that expertly blend rich fudgy cheesecake brownies with creamy swirls of tangy cream cheese.

Dark chocolate melts into a silky base, creating an irresistible foundation for the marbled topping.

Layers of intense chocolate and smooth cream cheese dance together in each delectable bite.

The contrast between dense brownie and velvety cheesecake creates a dessert that feels both indulgent and sophisticated.

Swirling techniques transform simple ingredients into a stunning visual treat that promises pure deliciousness.

These brownies elevate your dessert game with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Prepare to impress everyone at your next gathering with this show-stopping sweet sensation.

How to Adjust Texture or Sweetness

  • Brownie Base Magic: For ultra-fudgy brownies, use high-quality dark chocolate and let the batter rest 15 minutes before baking to enhance rich flavor and texture.
  • Swirl Perfection Technique: Use a thin knife or toothpick to create elegant marble patterns when combining cheesecake and brownie layers, ensuring gentle, smooth movements.
  • Make-Ahead Marvel: These brownies can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making them perfect for stress-free entertaining.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free baking blend to make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Low-Sugar Alternative: Replace sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia for a diabetic-friendly version without compromising the decadent taste and creamy texture.

Bringing Cheesecake Brownies to the Table

  • Decadent Dessert Plate: Serve these brownies on a beautiful white porcelain plate with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
  • Chocolate Lover's Dream: Top each brownie slice with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to create a rich, creamy contrast between warm brownie and cold ice cream.
  • Berry Bliss Garnish: Add a few fresh raspberries or strawberry slices alongside the brownie to introduce a tart, fruity brightness that complements the chocolate and cheesecake flavors.
  • Coffeehouse Companion: Pair these brownies with a hot espresso or cappuccino to enhance the deep chocolate notes and provide a sophisticated dessert experience.

Store Them Without Losing the Flavor

  • Smart Timing Strategy: Prepare all ingredients and tools before starting to maximize kitchen efficiency and reduce stress during baking.
  • Refrigeration Magic: Store finished brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring maximum freshness and maintaining delicious texture.
  • Freezing Wonder: Slice brownies into individual portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers. Frozen brownies stay delectable for 2-3 months, perfect for future sweet cravings.
  • Quick Serving Tip: Remove brownies from refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving to allow them to soften slightly, enhancing their rich, creamy texture and bringing out deeper flavor notes.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 230 kcal

Servings: 16

What Brings These Cheesecake Brownies Together

For Brownie Base:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and delicate texture to the brownie foundation.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich, deep chocolate flavor and dark color.
  • Salt: Enhances chocolate intensity and balances overall sweetness.
  • Baking Powder: Creates gentle lift and softness in brownie layer.
For Cheesecake Swirl:
  • Cream Cheese: Brings creamy, tangy richness and smooth consistency.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and helps create silky cheesecake texture.
  • Large Egg: Binds ingredients and adds luxurious richness.
  • Vanilla Extract: Introduces warm, aromatic depth to cheesecake component.
For Chocolate Elements:
  • Unsalted Butter: Adds moisture, richness, and helps create fudgy brownie texture.
  • Semisweet Chocolate: Provides intense chocolate flavor and glossy appearance.
  • Eggs: Contribute structure, richness, and help bind brownie batter.

Tools That Help You Nail the Layers

  • 8×8-inch baking pan: Essential for creating perfectly sized brownies with clean edges.
  • Parchment paper: Ensures easy brownie removal and prevents sticking.
  • Large mixing bowls: Needed for separate cheesecake and brownie batters.
  • Electric mixer or whisk: Helps blend ingredients smoothly and create creamy textures.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient proportions.
  • Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping batter and folding ingredients gently.
  • Wire cooling rack: Allows brownies to cool evenly after baking.

Follow These Steps for Cheesecake Brownies

  • Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350F and get ready for some baking magic.

  • Prepare the Pan

Grab a sheet of parchment paper and line your baking pan, letting the edges hang over so you can easily lift out your delicious creation later.

  • Whip Up the Brownie Base

Blend together your rich chocolate brownie mixture until it’s smooth and glossy, creating a decadent foundation for your cheesecake swirl.

  • Create the Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, mix your creamy cheesecake ingredients until they’re silky and light, ready to dance with the chocolate.

  • Combine and Swirl

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan, then dollop the cheesecake mixture on top. Use a knife to create beautiful, mesmerizing swirls that will make your dessert look like a work of art.

  • Bake to Perfection

Slide your pan into the preheated oven and let the magic happen. Bake until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle, about 35-40 minutes.

  • Cool and Slice

Remove from the oven and let your masterpiece cool completely. Use the parchment paper to lift the brownies out, then slice into squares of pure indulgence.

Print
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Fudgy Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Fudgy Cheesecake Brownies Recipe


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4.5 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 17 1x

Description

Rich chocolate swirls of cheesecake brownies dance with creamy cream cheese and deep cocoa. Chocolate lovers will savor each indulgent bite of this classic dessert that marries two beloved treats into one delectable square.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp baking powder

Instructions

  1. Oven Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal.
  2. Brownie Base Creation: Melt chocolate and butter together, then whisk in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until the mixture becomes glossy and uniform, creating a rich chocolate foundation.
  3. Cheesecake Layer Preparation: Blend cream cheese with sugar and egg until smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain in the mixture.
  4. Layering and Swirling: Spread the chocolate brownie batter evenly in the prepared pan, then strategically drop spoonfuls of cream cheese mixture on top. Use a knife to create intricate marbled patterns, gently swirling the two batters together.
  5. Baking Process: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, looking for a set center and slightly cracked surface that signals perfect doneness.
  6. Cooling and Setting: Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan, which helps the cheesecake layer stabilize and the chocolate base to firm up.
  7. Serving Preparation: Lift the entire dessert out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, then slice into precise squares for an elegant presentation.
  8. Final Refinement: Refrigerate the brownies for at least one hour to enhance texture and flavor, transforming them into a chilled, decadent treat.

Notes

  • Prevent Overbaking: Monitor brownies closely after 30 minutes to avoid dry, crumbly texture; insert a toothpick near center which should come out with few moist crumbs.
  • Cheesecake Swirl Technique: Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother blending; create elegant marbling by dragging a knife through dollops in figure-eight motions for professional-looking patterns.
  • Temperature Control: Allow ingredients like eggs and cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing to ensure even incorporation and smoother batter consistency.
  • Dietary Adaptation: Substitute gluten-free flour blend for standard flour, use dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and select dark chocolate without milk solids to accommodate various dietary restrictions while maintaining rich, decadent flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 17
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 17 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Jenna Hartley

Jenna Hartley

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

  • Recipe development with a focus on single-dish meals.
  • Fusion of traditional and modern Australian cuisines.
  • Food styling and photography for digital platforms.​

Education

Box Hill Institute, Melbourne

  • Degree: Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management
  • Focus: Specialized in practical food and beverage service, responsible alcohol and hygiene compliance, legal risk management, and hands‑on experience in a simulated restaurant environment.

William Angliss Institute, Melbourne

  • Program: Certificate IV in Patisserie
  • Focus: Specialized in pastry and bakery techniques, cookery and specialty food preparation, recipe planning and costing, commercial kitchen operations, sustainable and inclusive work practices, food safety and hygiene compliance, and workplace health and safety.

Jenna is the heart of Picture Perfect Meals, turning simple ingredients into beautiful, easy‑to‑make dishes. 

Growing up around family meals in Melbourne, she trained at Box Hill Institute and then perfected her pastry skills at William Angliss Institute. She loves mixing classic Australian flavors with fresh ideas to keep cooking fun and stress‑free.

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