Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried cherry cheesecake brownies yet, you’re in for a real treat! These little squares of joy combine the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy, dreamy texture of cheesecake, all topped off with a luscious cherry filling. I remember the first time I made these; I was hosting a movie night with friends, and I thought, “Why not bring together two of my favorite desserts?” The moment I pulled them out of the oven, the smell was heavenly, and I knew I had created something special. Trust me, these cherry cheesecake brownies are the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering. You’re going to love every bite!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup unsalted butter – This is going to give our brownies that rich, fudgy texture we crave!
- 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetening up the batter and balancing the flavors.
- 4 large eggs – These are crucial for binding everything together and keeping our brownies moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of this magic ingredient adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – The backbone of our brownie batter, giving it structure.
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – This is where that deep chocolate flavor comes from!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to enhance all the sweet and chocolatey goodness.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – Key for our creamy cheesecake layer; make sure it’s nice and soft for easy mixing!
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar – This will sweeten up the cream cheese and give it that perfect cheesecake flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice – A little brightness to balance the richness of the cream cheese.
- 1 can cherry pie filling – The cherry on top, literally! This adds a burst of flavor and a gorgeous finish.
How to Prepare Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly fudgy. While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it well. I like to use a bit of butter for greasing because it adds extra flavor, but non-stick spray works too! Just make sure every corner is covered so your brownies don’t stick when it’s time to slice them up.
Make the Brownie Batter
Now, let’s dive into making the brownie batter! In a large bowl, melt your cup of unsalted butter. I usually do this in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until it’s completely melted. Once that’s done, add in the granulated sugar and mix well until it’s combined. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Next, crack in the four large eggs, one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each addition so everything blends beautifully! Don’t rush through this part; it’s essential for achieving that perfect texture. Add in the teaspoon of vanilla extract, and just let that warm aroma fill your kitchen.
Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this can lead to tough brownies! A few lumps are totally okay, as they will bake out.
Create the Cheesecake Layer
Time to whip up that creamy cheesecake layer! In another bowl, beat the 8 oz of softened cream cheese until it’s super smooth—this is key for a luscious texture. If your cream cheese isn’t softened, you’ll end up with lumps, and nobody wants that! Once smooth, mix in the 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice until everything is combined. The lemon juice adds a nice brightness that balances out the richness of the cream cheese.
Assemble the Layers
Now comes the fun part: assembling our cherry cheesecake brownies! Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the greased baking pan. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; it’s all going to be delicious in the end! Next, gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer. Use a spatula to get it nice and even.
Then, dollop spoonfuls of the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer. I like to swirl it a bit with a knife just to create a marbled effect, but you can keep it simple too! Finally, pour the remaining brownie batter over the cherries, spreading it out carefully.
Bake and Cool
It’s time to bake! Pop your pan into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it—this means you’ve got that perfect fudgy texture! Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely before slicing. Trust me, letting them cool will give you cleaner cuts and more enjoyable bites! Patience is key here, but I promise it’ll be worth the wait.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor Combination: The rich, fudgy brownies paired with creamy cheesecake and sweet cherry filling create a flavor explosion that’s simply divine!
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even beginner bakers can whip these up with confidence.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, a potluck, or just a cozy night on the couch, these brownies are sure to impress.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare these brownies in advance, making them a stress-free dessert for busy days.
- Decadent Yet Light: Despite their rich ingredients, the cheesecake layer adds a lightness that balances out the dense brownie base perfectly.
- Fun to Customize: Feel free to experiment with different toppings or even swap the cherry filling for your favorite fruit!
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your cherry cheesecake brownies turn out absolutely perfect every time!
- Don’t Overmix: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies, and nobody wants that! A few lumps are totally fine.
- Softened Cream Cheese is Key: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before you start mixing. If it’s too cold, you’ll end up with lumps in your cheesecake layer. If you forgot to take it out in advance, you can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds to soften it up.
- Cool Completely: Patience is your best friend here! Let your brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing. This will help you achieve clean, beautiful squares. If you cut them while they’re still warm, they might fall apart!
- Use Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe has a few simple ingredients, using high-quality cocoa powder and real vanilla extract can make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your brownies towards the end of the baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it’s too wet, give it a couple more minutes, but watch it closely to avoid overbaking!
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to switch things up! You can try different fruit fillings or even add some chopped nuts for an extra crunch. Get creative with your toppings too!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each cherry cheesecake brownie. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients you use, but this will give you a good idea of what you’re working with:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
These brownies are a delightful treat that balances indulgence with a bit of sweetness. Enjoy them in moderation, and don’t forget to share with friends and family—they’ll definitely want to join in on the fun!
FAQ Section
How do I store leftover cherry cheesecake brownies?
You can store these delicious brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, I recommend refrigerating them, where they’ll stay fresh for about a week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture!
Can I freeze cherry cheesecake brownies?
Absolutely! These brownies freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?
If cherries aren’t your thing, don’t worry! You can easily swap the cherry pie filling for any fruit filling you like—blueberry, raspberry, or even apple would work beautifully. You could also use fresh fruit if you prefer that over canned fillings!
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! To make these brownies gluten-free, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. They’ll still be delicious and fudgy!
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Great question! You’ll want to keep an eye on them as they bake. They’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out clean, they might be a bit overbaked, so check a couple of minutes before the timer goes off!
Serving Suggestions
These cherry cheesecake brownies are delicious on their own, but if you want to take them to the next level, here are some delightful serving suggestions!
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream on the side adds a creamy contrast to the rich brownies.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top not only looks beautiful but also adds a lightness that complements the fudgy texture.
- Coffee or Tea: Pair your brownies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat, perfect for afternoon snacking or dessert after dinner.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling some melted chocolate over the top enhances the chocolatey flavor and makes for an elegant presentation.
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries for a pop of color and a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the brownies.
These pairings will elevate your cherry cheesecake brownies and make them even more enjoyable, whether you’re serving them at a gathering or just indulging at home!
Print
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies: 5 Reasons to Indulge Today
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 24 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful combination of cherry cheesecake and fudgy brownies.
Ingredients
- 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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 can cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix in the granulated sugar.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in another bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and lemon juice, mixing until well combined.
- Spread half of the brownie batter in the prepared pan.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer.
- Drop spoonfuls of cherry pie filling on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Spread the remaining brownie batter over the cherries.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
- Do not overmix the brownie batter.
- Let the brownies cool completely before slicing for cleaner pieces.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: cherry cheesecake brownies, brownies, cheesecake, dessert