Description: Decadent and delightful, these Cherry Cheesecake Brownies combine the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy tang of cheesecake and the sweet burst of cherry pie filling. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings, these brownies are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1 (18.3-ounce) family-size brownie mix
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ¼ cup water (room temperature)
For the Cheesecake Swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup cold heavy cream
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1½ cups cherry pie filling (about ¾ of a 21-oz can)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. Ensure the paper extends over the edges to facilitate easy removal of the brownies after baking.
Step 2: Prepare Brownie Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly blended, forming a smooth batter. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Step 3: Make Cheesecake Mixture:
In a separate medium-sized bowl, add the room temperature cream cheese and powdered sugar. Using a handheld mixer set on low speed, beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy, approximately 1-2 minutes. Incorporate the vanilla extract, heavy cream, and all-purpose flour into the mixture. Continue to beat until all ingredients are fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble Layers:
Take heaping spoonfuls of the prepared cheesecake mixture and drop them strategically over the brownie batter in the baking dish. Leave spaces between each dollop of cheesecake. Spoon the cherry pie filling into these spaces between the cheesecake dollops.
Step 5: Swirl:
Using a butter knife, carefully swirl the cheesecake and cherry layers together. Be gentle to avoid over-mixing; the goal is to create attractive swirls on the surface of the brownies.
Step 6: Bake:
Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. The brownies are done when the center is set, and a toothpick inserted into the brownie portion comes out almost clean. Be careful not to overbake.
Step 7: Cool and Chill:
Remove the baked brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate the brownies for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake layer to set properly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of rich, fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake, and sweet cherry pie filling creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Easy to Make: Using a brownie mix simplifies the process, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Impressive Presentation: The swirling of cheesecake and cherry creates a visually appealing dessert that’s perfect for gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These brownies can be made a day in advance, making them ideal for entertaining.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with different pie fillings or brownie mix flavors to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled for a refreshing treat.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Serve as a dessert for parties, holidays, or special occasions.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
Tips:
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for a smoother cheesecake swirl.
- Avoid overbaking to maintain the brownie’s fudgy texture.
- Chill the brownies thoroughly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Experiment with different pie fillings like blueberry or apple for variety.
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free brownie mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes (including chilling)
Nutrition Information: (Approximate values per serving)
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 4-5g
- Sodium: 200-250mg
Conclusion: Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful and decadent dessert that combines the best of brownies and cheesecake with a fruity twist. This recipe is easy to follow, customizable, and sure to impress your family and friends. Whether for a special occasion or a sweet treat, these brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures in every bite!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use a different type of pie filling?
- Yes, you can substitute cherry pie filling with other flavors like blueberry, apple, or strawberry, depending on your preference.
- Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
- Absolutely! Use a gluten-free brownie mix and ensure all other ingredients, such as vanilla extract and heavy cream, are certified gluten-free.
- How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from sinking into the brownie layer?
- Make sure the brownie layer is not too hot when you add the cheesecake layer. Allowing the brownie layer to cool slightly before adding the cheesecake mixture can help prevent sinking. Also, ensure that the cheesecake mixture is thick enough by using the correct proportions of ingredients.
- How long can I store these brownies?
- These brownies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They taste best when chilled!
- Can I freeze these brownies?
- Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap the cooled brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
