Description
Cheesecake Brownie Bars combine fudgy, rich chocolate brownie layers with a luscious, creamy cheesecake swirl, creating a perfect balance of indulgence and texture in every bite. Easy to make with simple pantry staples, these bars are customizable and ideal for sharing at any gathering or as a delightful weekend treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Layer
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for GF option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Swirl
- 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened (dairy-free cream cheese for vegan option)
- 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: Melt the butter and stir in the cocoa powder and sugar until smooth and well combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Fold in the flour, vanilla extract, and salt until just combined to keep the batter rich and fudgy.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer: Beat the cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is silky and well combined.
- Combine and Swirl Batter: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly in a parchment-lined baking pan. Dollop the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer. Pour the remaining brownie batter on top. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers together, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars to ensure clean cuts and proper setting.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for a smoother batter mix.
- Mix the brownie batter just until combined to keep it tender and fudgy.
- Swirl gently to maintain defined cheesecake layers.
- Allow bars to cool fully before slicing to prevent messy edges.
- Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner cuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: cheesecake brownie bars, chocolate dessert, cream cheese swirl, fudgy brownies, gluten free dessert, easy baking bar recipe
