Cheesecake Brownies - Gluten Free Cooking Guide

Cheesecake brownies are the perfect fusion of rich, fudgy brownies and creamy, tangy cheesecake. This delightful dessert features a decadent chocolate base swirled with smooth cheesecake, creating an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these homemade cheesecake brownies will impress everyone. Their unique marbled effect and customizable mix-ins make them a standout choice for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of deep chocolate and creamy cheesecake creates a flavor profile that is both rich and satisfying.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for bakers of all levels.
Customizable Options: Feel free to add chocolate chips, fruit swirls, or other mix-ins to suit your taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These brownies are great for parties, family gatherings, or as a special treat just because!
Stunning Presentation: The marbled effect not only tastes great but looks beautiful on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your cheesecake brownies, gather the essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

9-inch square baking pan
Microwave-safe bowl
Mixing bowls
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Spatula
Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

9-inch square baking pan: Ensures even baking and provides the perfect size for cutting brownies.
Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for melting butter and chocolate together quickly without burning.
Hand mixer or stand mixer: Helps achieve a smooth and creamy cheesecake mixture without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base

1 cup unsalted butter, cubed (227g)
1⅓ cups semisweet chocolate chips, divided (240g)
¾ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
1 cup brown sugar (220g)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 yolk, room temperature
1 tablespoon brewed coffee
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon hot water, plus more if needed

For the Cheesecake Topping

2 (8-ounce/227g) blocks cream cheese, room temperature
½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
1 pinch salt
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

How to Make Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking pan with butter or baking spray and line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the cubed butter and 1 cup of chocolate chips. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each one until fully melted and combined—this should take about 2 minutes. Whisk in the cocoa powder until smooth.

Step 3: Mix in the Sugars and Eggs

Add both sugars, eggs, egg yolk, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract to the melted mixture. Whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Add Flour and Salt

Gently stir in the flour and salt using a spatula until just combined. Reserve ½ cup of this brownie batter in a small bowl. Fold in the remaining ⅓ cup of chocolate chips into the rest of the brownie batter before spreading it into your prepared pan.

Step 5: Bake the Brownie Base

Bake for 20 minutes for super fudgy brownies or up to 30 minutes if you prefer cakey brownies. While it bakes, stir hot water into the reserved brownie batter until it reaches a thick yet pourable consistency.

Step 6: Make the Cheesecake Mixture

While the brownie base is baking, prepare your cheesecake topping. In a large mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, and salt using a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth—about 2 minutes.

Step 7: Incorporate Eggs

Reduce mixer speed to low. Add eggs one at a time while scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in vanilla extract once fully combined.

Step 8: Assemble Your Brownies

Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the par-baked brownie base without needing to cool it first. Dollop reserved brownie batter over this layer and use a skewer or knife tip to swirl through gently.

Step 9: Final Baking

Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes. Then reduce oven temperature to 325°F and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes until puffed around edges with a slightly wobbly center.

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, place your pan on a wire rack to cool completely before refrigerating for at least an hour before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delicious homemade cheesecake brownies!

How to Serve Cheesecake Brownies

Cheesecake brownies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to make your cheesecake brownies even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Berries

Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries and place them on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Raspberries: Scatter raspberries around the plate for a tangy contrast to the sweet brownies.
Blueberries: Use blueberries to add a juicy pop and complement the chocolate flavor.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake.
Chocolate Ice Cream: For true chocolate lovers, this option amplifies the dessert’s indulgence.
Coconut Sorbet: A refreshing, dairy-free alternative that adds a tropical twist.

Drizzled with Sauce

Chocolate Sauce: Warm chocolate sauce drizzled over the top creates an extra chocolatey experience.
Caramel Sauce: The sweetness of caramel contrasts beautifully with the cheesecake brownie flavors.
Fruit Coulis: A berry coulis adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

Light Dusting: A simple sprinkle of powdered sugar gives an elegant touch and enhances visual appeal.
Cocoa Powder: For an added chocolate kick, dust with cocoa powder before serving.

How to Perfect Cheesecake Brownies

Perfecting cheesecake brownies takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your brownies turn out amazing every time.

Use room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs and cream cheese to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the brownies fudgy rather than cakey.
Check baking time: Keep an eye on the brownies; overbaking can lead to dryness. Aim for a slight wobble in the center.
Cool completely: Letting the brownies cool fully before slicing helps achieve clean, beautiful edges.
Experiment with flavors: Add different extracts, like almond or orange, for unique twists on flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesecake Brownies

Pairing side dishes with cheesecake brownies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that balances the dense brownies.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and a healthy contrast.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Pairing these two favorites makes for a decadent dessert platter.
Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola offers texture and complements the soft brownie perfectly.
Coffee or Espresso: A cup of coffee enhances chocolate flavors, making it an ideal pairing for dessert.
Chilled Lemonade: The tartness cuts through sweetness, providing a refreshing balance after rich desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking cheesecake brownies can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold eggs or cream cheese can prevent your cheesecake from blending smoothly. Always bring them to room temperature before mixing.
Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough texture in your brownies and cheesecake. Mix just until combined for the best results.
Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your baking pan can make it difficult to remove the brownies later. Always use parchment paper for easy lifting.
Not checking doneness: Relying solely on baking times can lead to undercooked or overcooked brownies. Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Failing to refrigerate: Cutting into warm brownies will result in messy slices. Refrigerate them for at least an hour before serving for clean cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover cheesecake brownies in an airtight container.
They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
For optimal freshness, place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Cheesecake Brownies

Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Cheesecake Brownies

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place brownies on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm but not hot.
Stovetop: Place a brownie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about cheesecake brownies:

How do I know when my cheesecake brownies are done?

The edges should be puffed, while the center will still wobble slightly. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make cheesecake brownies ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake them a day or two in advance. Just store them properly in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What variations can I try with cheesecake brownies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit swirls into the brownie batter or cheesecake layer for extra flavor and texture.

Are these cheesecake brownies easy to customize?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of chocolate or add flavors like peanut butter or caramel to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

Cheesecake brownies are a delightful blend of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake that everyone will love. They’re perfect for any occasion and offer endless customization options. Try adding your favorite mix-ins, and enjoy this indulgent treat today!