Introduction
Indulge in the rich and decadent Cheesecake Swirled Brownies! This delightful dessert combines fudgy brownies with a smooth cheesecake swirl, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
1 18 oz box brownie mix
Eggs, oil, and water as specified on the brownie mix package
For the Cheesecake Swirl:
12 oz cream cheese or Neufchatel cream cheese
1 large egg
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35-40 minutes
Total Time
About 1 hour (including cooling time)
Yield
12-15 servings
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven according to the directions on the brownie mix package.
2. Prepare the Brownie Mix: Prepare the brownie mix according to package directions and set aside.
3. Make the Cheesecake Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, beat the cream cheese for a couple of minutes until smooth and creamy. Add in the egg, flour, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
4. Layer the Brownies and Cheesecake: Pour all but about 1 cup of the brownie batter into a prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. Spoon the cheesecake mixture on top of the brownie batter. Then, spoon the remaining brownie batter onto the top of the cream cheese mixture.
5. Create the Swirl: Using a knife, swirl the cream cheese and brownie batter together, creating a marbled effect.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the middle comes out mostly clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before cutting into pieces.
Enjoy! Serve these delicious Cheesecake Swirled Brownies as a delightful dessert for any gathering or a sweet treat for yourself!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven according to the directions on the brownie mix package.
2. Prepare the Brownie Mix:
Prepare the brownie mix according to package directions and set aside.
3. Make the Cheesecake Mixture:
In a medium-sized bowl, beat the cream cheese for a couple of minutes until smooth and creamy. Add in the egg, flour, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
4. Layer the Brownies and Cheesecake:
Pour all but about 1 cup of the brownie batter into a prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. Spoon the cheesecake mixture on top of the brownie batter. Then, spoon the remaining brownie batter onto the top of the cream cheese mixture.
5. Create the Swirl:
Using a knife, swirl the cream cheese and brownie batter together, creating a marbled effect.
6. Bake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the middle comes out mostly clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before cutting into pieces.
Notes
Storage:
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
These brownies can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or drizzled with chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Customization:
Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts to the brownie batter for added texture and flavor.
Cook Techniques
Preheating the Oven
Ensure that your oven is preheated to the temperature specified on the brownie mix package. This step is crucial for even baking.
Mixing the Brownie Batter
Follow the instructions on the brownie mix package carefully. Measure the eggs, oil, and water accurately for the best results.
Preparing the Cheesecake Mixture
Beat the cream cheese until smooth before adding other ingredients. This ensures a creamy texture without lumps.
Layering Ingredients
Pour the brownie batter into the baking pan first, followed by the cheesecake mixture. This layering technique allows the cheesecake to swirl seamlessly into the brownies.
Creating the Swirl
Use a knife to gently swirl the brownie batter and cheesecake mixture together. Be careful not to overmix, as you want a marbled effect.
Baking the Brownies
Bake the brownies until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. This indicates that they are cooked through without being overly dry.
Cooling the Brownies
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps maintain the structure and prevents them from falling apart.
FAQ
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a mix?
Yes, you can use a homemade brownie recipe. Just ensure it has a similar consistency to the packaged mix.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use Neufchatel cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free substitute.
How can I make the brownies more chocolatey?
You can add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for an extra chocolatey flavor.
Can I add toppings to the brownies?
Yes, feel free to add toppings like nuts, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of caramel after they are baked and cooled.
How should I store leftover brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Conclusion
Savor the delightful blend of fudgy brownies and creamy cheesecake in these Cheesecake Swirled Brownies. Perfect for any occasion, they bring together rich flavors and a beautiful presentation, making them a must-try dessert for chocolate and cheesecake lovers alike.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies
Combine your brownie base with dollops of cookie dough for a deliciously decadent treat. The chewy cookie dough on top of the fudgy brownies creates a perfect mix of textures.
Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Add a twist by incorporating creamy peanut butter into the cheesecake swirl for a delightful peanut butter flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Salted Caramel Brownies
Drizzle homemade or store-bought salted caramel over the cheesecake layer before swirling for an irresistible caramel flavor that enhances the richness of the brownies.
Raspberry Cheesecake Brownies
Add some tartness to your brownies by folding in raspberry puree into the cheesecake mixture, creating a fruity contrast to the chocolatey goodness.
Mint Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies
Incorporate peppermint extract into the cheesecake mixture for a refreshing mint flavor that complements the rich brownie base, perfect for mint lovers.
Nutty Chocolate Brownies
Enhance your brownies by adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the creaminess of the cheesecake swirl.
