Combining the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the creamy, tangy flavor of cheesecake, this Easy Brownie Cheesecake Recipe offers a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward, requiring simple ingredients and steps to create a dessert masterpiece.
Ingredients Overview
Creating this delicious dessert involves combining two beloved treats into one. Here’s what you’ll need:
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For the Brownie Layer:
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Instant coffee (optional, but recommended to enhance the chocolate flavor)
- Eggs, sugar, and flour
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For the Cheesecake Layer:
- Full-fat cream cheese
- Sour cream for added richness
- Eggs and vanilla extract for flavor
Understanding the science behind these ingredients can elevate your baking. For instance, the type of chocolate and cocoa powder used can affect the brownie’s texture and flavor. Learn more about The Science of Baking to perfect your dessert.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Preparing the Brownie Layer:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) springform pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
- Beat in cocoa, flour, baking powder, and salt. Spread the batter into the prepared pan, reserving 1/4 of the batter for the top.
Preparing the Cheesecake Layer:
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. Drop the reserved brownie batter by spoonfuls on top. Swirl the top gently with a knife or spatula to create a marbled effect.
Baking:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the edges are lightly browned. The center should still jiggle slightly; it will firm up as it cools.
- Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen; cool 1 hour longer. Refrigerate overnight.
Equipment Needed
Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×9 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixer (for the cheesecake layer)
Preparing the Brownie Layer
The foundation of this dessert is a rich, chocolatey brownie layer. Here’s how to make it:
- Melt the chocolate and butter together, then mix in the cocoa powder and instant coffee.
- Stir in the sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in the flour and chocolate chips, then spread the batter in a prepared baking pan.
For those looking to enhance their dessert with creative decorations, exploring Decorating Desserts can provide inspiration and techniques to make your brownie cheesecake visually stunning.
Preparing the Cheesecake Layer
The cheesecake layer adds a creamy contrast to the dense brownie base:
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Mix in the sour cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Pour this mixture over the brownie layer and smooth the top.
Baking and Cooling
Bake the dessert until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Let it cool at room temperature before chilling in the refrigerator. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
Decoration and Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle with melted chocolate or a dusting of cocoa powder.
- Cut into small squares, as this dessert is quite rich.
FAQs
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Can cheesecake brownies be left out?
Cheesecake brownies, like most baked goods that contain dairy products, should not be left out at room temperature for extended periods. The cheesecake layer in the brownies contains cream cheese and possibly eggs, which are perishable and can become a breeding ground for bacteria if left out too long.
As a general guideline, cheesecake brownies should be kept in the refrigerator if they’re not going to be consumed within 2 hours of baking or removing from the fridge. They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn and maintain their quality.
When serving cheesecake brownies that have been refrigerated or frozen, you can let them come to room temperature for a short period if you prefer, but it’s best to minimize the time they spend out of the fridge or freezer to ensure they remain safe to eat and retain their best texture and flavor.
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Can I use box brownie mix?
Yes, you can use a box brownie mix to make cheesecake brownies. Using a box mix is a convenient and time-saving option for the brownie layer of your cheesecake brownies. Here’s a simple way to incorporate a box brownie mix into making
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Storage instructions:Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and texture of your dessert. For more tips, check out Storing Baked Goods.
This Easy Brownie Cheesecake Recipe combines the best of both worlds, offering a dessert that’s both indulgent and satisfying. With detailed steps and helpful tips, even novice bakers can create a dessert that’s sure to become a favorite.
For those interested in exploring more unique brownie variations, consider reading our guide on making easy slutty brownies, which combines layers of cookie dough, oreo cookies, and brownie batter for an ultimate treat. Additionally, our collection of easy blondies and brownies recipes offers a variety of options for baking the perfect treats for any occasion.