Cheesecake Brownies – Rich, Fudgy, and Perfectly Swirled

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple to prepare yet delivers bakery-style results. The brownies stay moist and fudgy, the cheesecake layer is creamy and smooth, and every bite offers the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. It is a reliable crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Butter creates richness and contributes to the dense, fudgy texture of the brownie layer.

Granulated sugar sweetens the brownies and helps create a soft, tender crumb.

Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle caramel depth to the chocolate base.

Eggs provide structure and richness for both the brownie and cheesecake layers.

Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor and rounds out the sweetness.

Cocoa powder gives the brownies their deep chocolate flavor.

All-purpose flour provides structure while keeping the brownies soft and chewy.

Salt balances the sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.

Cream cheese is the star of the cheesecake layer, creating a smooth and slightly tangy contrast.

Powdered sugar sweetens the cheesecake layer while keeping it silky smooth.

Directions

Preheat the oven and line a baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

In a mixing bowl, melt the butter and whisk it together with granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth.

Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.

Stir in cocoa powder, flour, and salt just until a thick brownie batter forms.

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and an egg until smooth and creamy.

Spread most of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer, then drop small dollops of the remaining brownie batter on top.

Use a knife to gently swirl the layers together, creating a marbled pattern.

Bake until the edges are set and the center is just slightly soft.

Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe makes twelve brownies.

Preparation time is about 20 minutes.
Baking time is approximately 30–35 minutes.
Cooling time is about 1 hour.
Total time is around 2 hours.

Storage/reheating

Store Cheesecake Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. They can be enjoyed cold or brought to room temperature before serving. Reheating is not recommended, as it may affect the cheesecake layer.

Variations and Customizations

Cheesecake Brownies are easy to customize while keeping their classic appeal. For extra indulgence, chocolate chips can be folded into the brownie batter. I tried this once with dark chocolate chips, and it made the brownies even richer.

You can add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the brownie batter to deepen the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.

For a flavored cheesecake layer, a small amount of lemon zest or vanilla bean paste can be added for subtle brightness.

If you enjoy texture, chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled over the top before baking.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

These brownies are a rich dessert and best enjoyed in moderation. They provide energy from carbohydrates and fats, with small amounts of protein from eggs and cream cheese.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Do Not Overmix
Mix the batter just until combined to keep the brownies fudgy.

Gentle Swirling
Avoid over-swirling to maintain distinct layers.

Clean Cuts
Chill the brownies before slicing for neat edges.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they taste even better the next day after chilling.

How do I know when they are done?

The edges should be set while the center remains slightly soft.

Can I freeze Cheesecake Brownies?

Yes, freeze tightly wrapped slices for up to two months.

Why did my cheesecake layer crack?

Overbaking or overmixing can cause cracks.

Can I use boxed brownie mix?

Yes, but homemade batter gives better flavor and texture.

Should I refrigerate them?

Yes, refrigeration keeps the cheesecake layer fresh.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan and adjust baking time.

Are these brownies very sweet?

They are rich but balanced by the tangy cheesecake.

Can I add fruit?

Swirls of raspberry or strawberry puree work well.

What is the best way to serve them?

Chilled or at room temperature, sliced into squares.

Conclusion

Cheesecake Brownies are a decadent dessert that combines two beloved classics into one irresistible treat. With their fudgy base, creamy swirl, and stunning appearance, they are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a special indulgence. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert collection.

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