Description
These cheesecake brownies feature fudgy chocolate brownie batter swirled with a smooth and creamy cheesecake layer, creating a stunning marbled effect that looks fancy but is surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need an impressive dessert that comes together in less than an hour.
Ingredients
- 1 family-size box of brownie mix, prepared according to package directions
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 egg, room temperature for best texture
- 1/3 cup sugar, granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, pure vanilla for deeper flavor
- Optional toppings, chocolate chips, crushed cookies, sea salt, or mini brownie chunks
Instructions
- Prepare the Brownie Batter: Follow your brownie mix box directions exactly, combining the dry mix with oil, water, and eggs as instructed. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes of stirring.
- Pour into Pan: Spread the prepared brownie batter evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, making sure the bottom is completely covered.
- Beat the Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes until it's smooth and creamy.
- Add Sweetness: Gradually add the sugar while continuing to beat, mixing for another 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Mix in Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating on medium speed for about 1 minute until everything is well combined and there are no lumps.
- Dollop the Cheesecake: Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter, spacing them about 2-3 inches apart across the entire pan.
- Swirl Together: Using a butter knife or wooden skewer, gently drag it through the cheesecake and brownie batter in a zigzag pattern to create a marbled effect, being careful not to over-mix.
- Bake: Place the pan in a preheated 350-degree Fahrenheit oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the brownie portion comes out with just a few fudgy crumbs.
- Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 20-30 minutes before cutting, as they'll be easier to slice when they've set.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes