Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
Imagine biting into a luscious brownie that bursts with rich chocolate flavor and is perfectly complemented by a creamy, tangy cheesecake swirl. If that sounds like a slice of heaven, then you’re in for a treat with these Cherry Cheesecake Brownies! This delightful dessert combines the gooey goodness of your favorite brownie with a velvety cheesecake layer, and the addition of sweet cherries adds a vibrant touch that makes this dessert irresistible.
Did you know that brownies were actually invented in the United States in the late 19th century? Not only that, but Cherry Cheesecake Brownies offer a fun twist on traditional brownies—perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress. They’re incredibly simple to whip up, taking just over an hour to prepare and bake. Not only are they sure to be a hit with family and friends, but they are also a fun and interactive way to get kids involved in the kitchen. So why not gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try? You won’t be disappointed!
What are Cherry Cheesecake Brownies?
You might be wondering, “What’s in a name?” Well, Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are exactly what they sound like: a delicious marriage of fudgy brownies and creamy cheesecake, with the crowning glory of sweet cherries on top! It’s like the best of both worlds; it’s a delightful fusion of flavors that leaves you thinking, “How can something this delicious be so easy to make?” Legend has it that brownies were created when a baker accidentally omitted flour from a chocolate cake recipe—thankfully, the outcome was perfection! After all, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these brownies will definitely capture hearts and taste buds alike. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your mixing bowls and get ready to indulge in this sweet treat!
Why You’ll Love These Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
What’s not to love about Cherry Cheesecake Brownies? First and foremost, they combine the rich chocolate flavor of brownies with the creamy deliciousness of cheesecake. The cherry topping provides a burst of flavor, making every bite a delightful experience for your taste buds. Secondly, making these brownies at home saves you money compared to store-bought desserts or fancy bakeries. Plus, who can resist the warm aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake? They’re a true dessert lover’s dream! If you enjoy indulgent sweets, you may also want to explore my recipe for decadent Chocolate Lava Cakes, which is another fantastic crowd-pleaser. So grab those cherries and get ready to create a dessert everyone will remember!
How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
Quick Overview
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are not only eye-catching but also incredibly simple to make! This dessert is perfect for both casual family dinners and special celebrations. In just about 70 minutes, you’ll be in brownie bliss, and your kitchen will smell divine. With rich brownies topped with a luscious cheesecake layer and sweet cherry topping, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Key Ingredients for Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these amazing Cherry Cheesecake Brownies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cheesecake layer)
- 1 cup cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Melt the Butter: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, then remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined.
- Mix Cheesecake Batter: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Add in one egg and vanilla extract, blending until creamy.
- Layer the Mixtures: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spread the cheesecake mixture over it, and then dollop the remaining brownie batter on top. Use a knife to swirl the layers for a marbled effect.
- Add Cherries: Spoon the cherry pie filling or fresh cherries over the top, spreading them evenly.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.
What to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Brownies With
These delectable brownies are delightful on their own, but why not add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence? Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or tea, and you’ve created a wonderfully balanced dessert experience. They also make a fantastic addition to dessert tables alongside classics like Chocolate Chip Cookies or Fruit Tarts, bringing variety and a colorful splash to your gatherings!
Top Tips for Perfecting Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
To enhance your Cherry Cheesecake Brownies, consider these tips:
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder and pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the brownie batter to ensure a fudgy texture.
- Chill the Cheesecake: For a firmer cheesecake layer, chill the cheesecake batter in the fridge for about 15 minutes before layering it.
- Fresh Cherries: If using fresh cherries, pit and slice them into smaller pieces for even distribution.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your Cherry Cheesecake Brownies, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Simply wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy them again, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or reheat individual squares in the microwave for a few seconds. Enjoy the fudgy goodness as if they were just baked!
In conclusion, Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful dessert that impresses with every bite. They are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake topped with juicy cherries. With an easy preparation time and crowd-pleasing flavors, they are destined to be a family favorite. So go ahead, indulge and create this delicious dessert that’s sure to sweeten any day! Happy baking!
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, then remove from heat and stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Add in one egg and vanilla extract, blending until creamy.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spread the cheesecake mixture over it, and then dollop the remaining brownie batter on top. Use a knife to swirl the layers for a marbled effect.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling or fresh cherries over the top, spreading them evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.
