Cheesecake Swirl Brownies
Fudgy chocolate brownies marbled with a creamy vanilla cheesecake swirl, made in one bowl.
These brownies combine two favorite desserts: a dense, fudgy chocolate brownie and a ribbon of sweet, creamy cheesecake.
The swirl looks impressive but is simple. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top and drag a knife through them.
Cheesecake Swirl Brownies
Per brownie, estimated: 190 calories · 2 g protein · about $0.35 How we estimate
Ingredients
For the brownies
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200 g) sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup (30 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp baking powder
- ½ cup (85 g) semisweet chocolate chips
For the cheesecake swirl
- 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 tbsp (25 g) sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 × 8-inch (20 × 20 cm) pan with parchment.
- Whisk the melted butter and sugar together, then whisk in the eggs and vanilla until glossy.
- Sift in the cocoa, flour, salt and baking powder and stir just until combined. Stir in the chocolate chips. Spread in the pan.
- In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk and vanilla until smooth.
- Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter. Drag a knife through both layers in a zigzag to create swirls.
- Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, until the cheesecake is set and a toothpick in the brownie part comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely in the pan, about 1 hour, then lift out and cut into 16 squares.
Tips for success
- Don't overswirl. A few passes with the knife gives the clearest marbling.
- For the cleanest squares, chill the brownies for 30 minutes before cutting.
- Overbaking makes brownies dry. Take them out while a toothpick still shows moist crumbs.
Storing and reheating
Because of the cream cheese, keep covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Equipment you'll need
- 8 × 8-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Parchment paper
Questions
Can I use a boxed brownie mix?
Yes. Prepare an 8 × 8-inch brownie mix as directed, then add the cheesecake swirl and bake as the box says, adding about 5 minutes.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Use a 9 × 13-inch (23 × 33 cm) pan and bake for 32 to 38 minutes.
Calories, protein and cost are estimates calculated from the main ingredients and typical US supermarket prices. They will vary with the brands you buy, where you shop and your portion size. Measurements are given in US cups and spoons with approximate metric weights. Oven temperatures can vary, so check doneness using the signs described in each step. Always check labels if you are cooking for someone with a food allergy.
