Name: Cheesecake Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 brownies
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 1/4 cups flour; 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup dark cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 3 large eggs; 1 cup vegetable oil; 1/4 cup milk, plus 2 tablespoons ((divided)); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 8- ounce packages cream cheese (softened); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla

Cheesecake Browniesare a rich, chocolate filled brownie topped with a creamy cheesecake layer to create a dessert combination that is simply divine.

Top view of six cheesecake brownie squares on parchment paper.

Brownie cheesecake bars are a showstopper. They look fancy but are so easy to make. These bars always receive rave reviews whenever I make them. Brownie cheesecake bars are sturdy enough to be cut into shapes making them perfect for sharing with friends.

This recipe uses dark cocoa powder, such as Hersey’s Special Dark. It is amazingly chocolaty without being bitter. It’s a great thing to have on hand and I now use it in 90% of recipes that call for cocoa.

Close up of three cheesecake brownies stacked on a plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert will knock you off your feet. It is simple to whip up and uses ingredients that you most likely have in your kitchen right now.
Ideal for parties or gatherings, yielding 24 delicious brownies per batch.
Enhanced with dark cocoa powder for an intense, yet balanced chocolate flavor.

Recipe Ingredients

Flour– All-purpose
Sugar –Granulated
Dark cocoa powder
Cream cheese
Baking powder
Eggs
Vegetable oil
Milk
Vanilla extract
Salt

See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities

ingredients for cheesecake brownies in separate bowls

How to Make Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1.Mix dry brownie ingredients then add eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.

Step 2.Spread most of the brownie batter into a greased 13×18 jelly roll pan. In a separate bowl, beat cheesecake ingredients until fluffy.

Step 3.Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan then drop spoonfuls of reserved brownie batter over the cream cheese layer.

Step 4.Use a toothpick to swirl the layers gently. Bake at 350°F for 28-30 minutes, then cool for 20 minutes before cutting into squares.

Recipe FAQs

Can the brownies be stored in the freezer?

Of course! The frozen bars can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. The cheesecake layer can feel slightly more sticky after it comes out of the freezer, but it is still tasty.

Do Cheesecake Brownies have to be refrigerated?

These brownies can be kept at room temperature for 1 or 2 days, but if you want the bars to last longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to one week.

How can I tell when cheesecake brownies are done baking?

You will know when the bars are done baking because the center will be set. You don’t want to over bake them. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before cutting.

Expert Tips

Ensurecream cheese and eggs are at room temperaturefor asmoother cheesecakelayer and easier mixing.
Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the brownie and cheesecakelayers together.Avoid over-mixingto maintain distinct layers.
Grease the jelly roll pan generouslytoprevent stickingand ensure easy removal of the brownies after baking.
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 20 minutesbefore cutting into squares. This helps them set andmakes for cleaner cutswhen serving.

Top view of a pan of swirled cheesecake brownies.

How to Serve and Store Cheesecake Brownies

Serve these with a dollop of freshlywhipped creamor garnish with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fruity contrast. Pair with a scoop of vanilla orchocolate ice creamor drizzle with warmchocolate fudge saucefor an extra indulgent treat.

Cheesecake brownies can be kept at room temperature for 1 or 2 days, but if you want the bars to last longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to one week. They can also be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. The cheesecake layer can feel slightly more sticky after it comes out of the freezer, but it is still tasty.