Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth that craves the perfect mix of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and tart cherries, then this Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine fudgy, dense brownies layered with luscious cheesecake swirls and bright cherry pie filling, creating a dessert that’s as stunning to look at as it is irresistible to eat. This recipe strikes a wonderful balance between indulgence and freshness, making it ideal for sharing with friends or treating yourself to a truly special treat. Once you make these, you’ll wonder why you never combined these flavors before!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe plays an essential role, from adding moisture and richness to balancing flavors and creating the perfect texture. These simple staples come together seamlessly to deliver that classic, comforting taste with a cherry-on-top twist.

• 1 cup butter (melted, cooled slightly): This adds a luscious, tender crumb and deep buttery flavor to the brownies.
• 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar (500g): Sweetens the batter and balances the richness of cocoa and cream cheese.
• 1 tbsp vanilla: A warm, fragrant note that enhances all other flavors.
• 4 eggs: These bind the ingredients together while adding moisture and structure.
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or sub all-purpose) (190g): Provides structure and a slightly nutty flavor, but all-purpose works beautifully too.
• 1 cup cocoa (95g): Delivers that deep, intense chocolate flavor we all crave.
• 1/2 tsp salt: A small touch to heighten the sweetness and richness.
• 1 8 oz package cream cheese: Creates the creamy cheesecake layer that melts into the brownie.
• 1 egg: Helps achieve the right cheesecake texture, smooth and perfectly set.
• 1 tsp vanilla: Infuses the cheesecake layer with a lovely aromatic warmth.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake mixture for that classic tangy-sweet balance.
• 1/2 can cherry pie filling: Adds bursts of juicy, tart cherries that contrast beautifully with the rich layers.

How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with tin foil and spraying it with cooking spray to ensure your brownies come out clean and easy to slice. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit so everything is ready when your batter is mixed.

Step 2: Whisk Together Butter, Sugar, Vanilla, and Eggs

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar, whisking until smooth and glossy. Then add the vanilla and eggs, whisking again until fully incorporated and silky. This mixture forms the chocolatey foundation of your brownies.

Step 3: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Next, stir in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined. The batter will be thick and slightly fudgy—that’s exactly what you want for dense, chewy brownies!

Step 4: Spread Half the Brownie Batter

Evenly spread just over half of the brownie batter into the bottom of your prepared pan. This layer creates the base for your cheesecake and cherry toppings, so try to get it as flat as possible for even baking.

Step 5: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese, egg, vanilla, and sugar until smooth and creamy. This fluffy mixture is going to be the luxurious cheesecake component that melts so delightfully into your brownies.

Step 6: Layer the Cheesecake and Cherry Pie Filling

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter. Then spoon dollops of cherry pie filling across the cheesecake layer, gently spreading just a bit to coat. The cherries add bursts of juicy flavor and vibrant pops of color you won’t want to miss.

Step 7: Add the Remaining Brownie Batter

Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the cherry layer in patches. It might seem uneven, but don’t worry! Smooth it out as best as you can. This top layer seals in all the gooey goodness beneath.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake your Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30-35 minutes. The edges should be set, and while the center might still have a slight jiggle, that’s the sign of ooey-gooey perfection awaiting you inside.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Allow the brownies to cool to room temperature. For the cleanest slices, refrigerate for a few hours, but if you’re as impatient as I am, cutting right away still tastes amazing!

How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

For a little extra wow, dust the tops with powdered sugar or sprinkle some chopped toasted nuts. A few fresh cherries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can also turn these into a dessert fit for any celebration.

Side Dishes

Serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A hot cup of coffee or a rich, creamy latte complements the bittersweet chocolate and tangy cherries perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the brownies into bite-sized squares and placing them on a festive tray for parties, or stack them in a dessert box to gift a homemade treat that’s sure to impress loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to a week to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these brownies by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for a ready-to-enjoy decadent treat.

Reheating

Warm individual servings in the microwave for 10-20 seconds to bring back the gooey, melty goodness without drying them out. Serve warm for that freshly baked feeling every time.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat?

Absolutely! All-purpose flour works wonderfully and will give your brownies a slightly lighter texture, but whole wheat adds a subtle nuttiness that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Is it okay to use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

Fresh cherries can be used, but they won’t have the same syrupy sweetness and thick consistency as pie filling. If you do use fresh cherries, consider cooking them down slightly with sugar to mimic that effect.

How can I tell when the brownies are done baking?

The edges should be firm and slightly pulling away from the pan, while the center might still jiggle a little due to the cheesecake layer. This ensures a moist and fudgy brownie, not overbaked.

Can I double this Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe for a bigger batch?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in two pans or a larger pan, though baking times may vary slightly. Just watch for the same visual cues to know when they’re ready.

Do these brownies need to be refrigerated?

Because of the cream cheese layer, it’s best to refrigerate leftovers to keep them fresh and safe. They also slice more cleanly when chilled, making serving easier.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the way chocolate, cheesecake, and cherry flavors come together in this Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to brighten your day, these brownies are guaranteed to delight everyone lucky enough to try one. I hope you have as much fun making and enjoying them as I do sharing this recipe with you!

Print