Chocolate cheesecake swirl brownies (Print)

Fudgy chocolate brownies with creamy cheesecake swirl for an irresistible dessert.

# Ingredient List:

→ Brownie Layer

01 - 6 oz unsalted butter, melted
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
06 - 3/4 cup plus 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
07 - 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
08 - 1/2 tsp salt
09 - 3.5 oz dark chocolate, chopped or chips

→ Cheesecake Swirl

10 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
11 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
12 - 1 large egg
13 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - Whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
03 - Sift flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in chopped chocolate.
04 - Reserve 1/4 cup of brownie batter. Pour remaining batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
05 - Beat cream cheese until creamy. Add granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
06 - Spread cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan.
07 - Drop spoonfuls of reserved brownie batter over cheesecake layer. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the two batters together for a marbled effect.
08 - Bake for 32-35 minutes until center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
09 - Allow to cool completely in the pan before lifting out and cutting into squares.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • You get the best of both worlds without choosing between cakey and fudgy
  • The swirl looks impressive but takes literally thirty seconds of effort
  • These freeze beautifully for last minute dessert emergencies
02 -
  • Room temperature ingredients are non negotiable for the cheesecake layer
  • Underbaking by three minutes yields the most fudgy texture
  • The swirl looks messy while baking but transforms into beautiful marbling as it sets
03 -
  • Chill your pan of brownies for two hours before cutting for the cleanest edges
  • Run your knife under hot water and wipe dry between each slice for perfect squares