Catch your breath as you dive into the world of Cherry Cheesecake Brownies. Imagine a warm brownie nestled beneath a creamy layer of cheesecake, topped with plump cherries that burst with sweetness. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your family lured in like moths to a flame.
Let me take you back to a sunny afternoon when my best friend decided to host an impromptu gathering. Armed with my favorite Cherry Cheesecake Brownies, I witnessed firsthand how they transformed the mood from ordinary to extraordinary. Trust me; this recipe is bound to leave everyone begging for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are simple to prepare yet impressively delicious
- Their combination of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake makes them visually stunning on any table
- Perfect for any occasion or just because you deserve something sweet!
Everyone raved about how delicious these treats were and how the flavors danced together beautifully!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Use high-quality cocoa powder for that deep chocolate flavor that will make your brownies unforgettable.
- Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar adds sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sift it before measuring for the best results.
- Butter: Melted butter enhances richness; use unsalted for better control over saltiness in your brownies.
- Eggs: Fresh large eggs give the perfect texture; room temperature helps them blend better.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates flavors; it’s worth splurging on quality here!
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese creates that luscious cheesecake layer; make sure it’s at room temperature.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness without graininess in the cheesecake layer.
- Cherry Pie Filling: Use store-bought or homemade for a burst of cherry goodness on top.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Gather your apron and let’s get started on these indulgent Cherry Cheesecake Brownies!
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper.
Create the Brownie Base: In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Then mix in cocoa powder until well-blended before adding eggs and vanilla extract.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those chewy edges! Pour this chocolaty goodness into your prepared pan.
Make the Cheesecake Layer: Using an electric mixer, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until creamy. Add an egg and mix just until incorporated—no lumps allowed!
Layer It Up!: Pour half of the brownie batter into the pan. Spread half of the cheesecake mixture on top, then add dollops of cherry pie filling before repeating layers with remaining batter.
Bake to Perfection!: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean (a few crumbs are okay!). Allow them to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Enjoy sharing these decadent treats with loved ones or savoring them all by yourself—no judgment here!
You Must Know
- Cherry Cheesecake Brownies combine rich chocolate with creamy cheesecake and tart cherries, creating a divine dessert
- These treats are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in
- Just be prepared to share—your friends will definitely want seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the brownie base first, then whip up the cheesecake filling while it bakes. This sequence ensures everything is fresh and delicious when it comes together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cherries for raspberries or strawberries for a fruitier twist. You can even add a sprinkle of almond extract to the cheesecake layer for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your brownies don’t stick, line your baking dish with parchment paper
- Always let them cool completely before slicing; this helps maintain their shape and texture
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother cheesecake layer that mixes easily
Nothing beats the joy of sharing these Cherry Cheesecake Brownies at family gatherings. The delighted faces and empty plates always remind me why I love baking so much!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Cheesecake Brownies?
Yes, frozen cherries work well; just thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
How long do these brownies last?
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies can last up to five days when properly stored in the fridge.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a delightful alternative.
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings
Description
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are a dreamy dessert that combines fudgy chocolate brownies with creamy cheesecake and sweet cherry topping, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Granulated sugar
- All-purpose flour
- Unsalted butter
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Cream cheese
- Powdered sugar
- Cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Stir in cocoa powder, then add eggs and vanilla until well combined.
- Gently fold in flour until just mixed; pour into the prepared pan.
- Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy. Mix in an egg until smooth.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the pan, followed by half of the cheesecake mixture, dollops of cherry pie filling, and repeat layers with remaining batter.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Allow to cool before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Substitute cherries with raspberries or strawberries for different flavors. To prevent sticking, use parchment paper in your baking dish. For gluten-free brownies, swap regular flour with a gluten-free alternative.
