Welcome to Afterka’s kitchen! If you’re a fan of rich chocolate brownies and creamy cheesecake with a fruity twist, you’re in for a treat with our Decadent Cherry Cheesecake Brownies. These swirls of chocolatey goodness and tangy cherry cheesecake are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing guests at any gathering.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Batter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
For the Cherry Cheesecake Swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cherry pie filling
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave.
- Stir in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until smooth.
Step 3: Prepare the Cherry Cheesecake Swirl
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, and beat until creamy and well combined.
Step 4: Assemble and Swirl
- Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan.
- Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the brownie batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture and remaining brownie batter over the cherries.
- Use a knife or skewer to swirl the mixtures together gently, creating a marbled effect.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into squares.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the brownies into squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Optionally, top each brownie square with a dollop of cherry pie filling for extra flavor.
Tips and Variations
- Fresh Cherries: Substitute cherry pie filling with fresh pitted cherries for a more natural flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled brownies for added decadence.
- Nuts: Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to the brownie batter for extra texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
These Decadent Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful blend of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and tart cherries that will satisfy any dessert craving. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these swirled delights are sure to impress. Enjoy every decadent bite!
We hope you enjoy making and sharing these delicious brownies! Share your creations with us in the comments below or tag us on social media.