Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I pulled a pan of these Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies from the oven, the delightful aroma filled my kitchen, promising sweet satisfaction. These brownies are not just any dessert; they combine the best of both worlds—rich chocolate fudge and creamy cherry cheesecake swirls, making them an irresistible treat for any chocolate lover. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility; it’s perfect for festive occasions or a cozy night in. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, ensuring you spend more time savoring each luscious bite than slaving away in the kitchen. Intrigued? Let’s dive into the world of decadent desserts with this delightful recipe! Why Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies? Irresistible Combination: These brownies marry rich chocolate fudge with creamy cherry cheesecake swirls, creating a dessert that captivates your taste buds like no other. Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip these up effortlessly, even if baking isn’t your forte! Delightfully Versatile: Feel free to experiment with other fruit fillings or add extra chocolate chips for a personalized touch. Perfect for Sharing: Great for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in, they are sure to impress friends and family alike! Time-Saving Treat: Bake, cool, and indulge—all in a matter of hours. Enjoy more time with loved ones and less time fussing in the kitchen. Dive in and discover how delicious these Cherry Cheese Danish and Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake can be! Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies Ingredients • Here’s everything you need for these delightful Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies! For the Brownie Base Unsalted Butter – Provides fat for a rich, fudgy texture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the brownies; can be replaced with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Essential for a deep chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed cocoa can lend a smoother taste. Salt – Enhances overall flavor; leave out for a low-sodium version. Baking Powder – Adds lift and structure to the brownies; baking soda can work in a pinch. Chocolate/Coffee/Vanilla Extract – Infuses flavor; vanilla is a great, all-purpose substitute. Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; use flax eggs or gelled chia seeds for a vegan option. All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for a gluten-free version, swap with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Mini Chocolate Chips – Adds extra chocolate flavor; utilize dark or white chocolate chips for variety. For the Cheesecake Layer Cream Cheese – Creates the cheesecake layer; use Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option. Granulated Sugar (for cheesecake) – Sweetens the cheesecake layer. All-Purpose Flour (for cheesecake) – Stabilizes the cheesecake layer, crucial for texture. Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the cheesecake; full-fat sour cream can be a great swap. Cherry Pie Filling – Provides tartness and sweetness; fresh or frozen cherries can make a delightful homemade filling. Dive into the delightful flavor and texture of these Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies, and let your sweet tooth be your guide! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven heats, prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it generously or lining it with parchment paper. This step ensures that your Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies come out easily and do not stick, setting you up for success right from the start. Step 2: Make the Brownie Base In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, remove it from heat and stir in 1.5 cups of granulated sugar until smooth. Next, incorporate 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and your choice of 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly, then whisk in the eggs one at a time. Finally, fold in 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 cup of mini chocolate chips until just combined. Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1/4 cup of heavy cream, blending until well incorporated. Then, add 1 large egg, mixing until the cheesecake layer is smooth and free of lumps. This will form a rich, velvety layer essential for your Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies. Step 4: Layer the Mixtures Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it into an even layer. Carefully spoon the cheesecake mixture on top, ensuring an even coverage over the brownie base. Next, dollop spoonfuls of cherry pie filling across the cheesecake layer, followed by the remaining brownie batter. Use a knife to gently swirl everything together, creating beautiful marbled patterns that showcase the delicious combination. Step 5: Bake to Perfection Now it’s time to bake your creation! Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes. The brownies are done when the edges appear set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, which can lead to dryness in your Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies. Step 6: Cool and Chill Once baked, remove the brownie pan from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, cover the pan and transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. Chilling is key, as it helps the flavors meld together and makes cutting the brownies much easier, ensuring you get those perfect swirls. Step 7: Slice and Serve After chilling, take your Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies out of the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice them into squares for serving. These decadent treats can be enjoyed chilled or warmed slightly in the microwave for a fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth experience that your friends and family will love. Make Ahead Options These Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the brownie base up to 24 hours in advance, simply mix and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. Additionally, the cheesecake layer can also be made ahead and kept chilled for up to 3 days; just ensure it’s well-covered to maintain that creamy texture. When you’re ready to bake, layer the brownie and cheesecake mixtures, add your cherry filling, and swirl them together. Bake as directed, and enjoy delicious, homemade brownies with minimal effort! Storage Tips for Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies Fridge: Store your Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the uncut brownies tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. They can be frozen for up to one month. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the brownies in the fridge overnight, or let them sit at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving. Reheating: If you prefer a warm treat, reheat individual squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that delectable fudgy texture! Expert Tips for Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies Cream Cheese Consistency: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps. Cooling is Key: Let your brownies cool completely before cutting them. This allows the layers to set and results in cleaner, more appealing slices. Storage Tips: Due to the cream cheese, store your brownies in the refrigerator. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Microwave Magic: For an extra indulgent treat, warm individual brownies in the microwave for a few seconds. This creates a fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s irresistible! Friendly Swaps: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Use different fruit pie fillings or add toasted nuts for a delightful twist on your Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies. Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies Variations Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize these delightful brownies to suit your taste! Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free blend instead of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities. These brownies can remain just as fudgy and indulgent! Vegan Delight: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use coconut oil in place of butter. This vegan twist allows everyone to enjoy a slice of decadence! Fruit Fusion: Swap cherry pie filling for other fruits like blueberry or peach. Transform your brownies into seasonal delights with minimal effort! Nutty Goodness: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a delightful crunch and flavor boost. The added texture elevates every bite! Extra Chocolatey: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips alongside the mini chocolate chips for an ultra-decadent chocolate experience. You won’t regret this rich twist! Flavor Infusion: Try using almond or orange extract instead of vanilla. A subtle hint can elevate your brownies to gourmet levels, making your dessert even more exciting. Whipped Top: Serve these brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent dessert experience. The contrast of temperatures will enhance your enjoyment! When you’re in the mood for something new, consider pairing these brownies with a refreshing Berry Peach Cheesecake or a cozy slice of Blueberry Cheesecake Bars. Enjoy making these personal twists, and remember—baking is all about the joy of creativity! What to Serve with Heavenly Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies? As you savor the rich and creamy delight of these decadent brownies, let’s explore some perfect accompaniments to create a delightful meal experience. Fresh Berry Salad: A vibrant mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides a fresh and light contrast to the rich brownies. The natural sweetness enhances the cherry flavor beautifully. Whipped Cream: A dollop of light and fluffy whipped cream adds an airy contrast, making each bite even more indulgent. You can even flavor it with a hint of vanilla or almond extract for a twist. Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing adds a creamy and cold touch that perfectly balances the fudgy texture of the brownies. As it melts slightly, it creates a luscious chocolate-cherry fusion. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Elevate your dessert to new heights with a warm chocolate sauce. Drizzling it over the brownies adds decadence, creating an irresistible treat for chocolate lovers. Mint Tea: A refreshing cup of mint tea complements the sweetness and richness. The coolness of the tea creates a delightful contrast, cleansing the palate with each sip. Coffee or Espresso: Rich, bold flavors of coffee or espresso enhance the chocolate notes of the brownies. The combination of caffeine and dessert is sure to energize your afternoon or evening. Cheese Platter: For those who enjoy savory bites, a cheese platter featuring mild cheeses like brie or camembert can provide a unique contrast to the sweetness while adding an element of sophistication. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For an indulgent treat, serve alongside some warm chocolate chip cookies. The textures mingle beautifully, offering varied bites of chocolatey delight. Fudge Brownie Milkshake: Blend up a thick milkshake made from brownies and ice cream for a playful and decadent drinkable dessert. It’s an adventure for your taste buds! Fruit Tart: A beautiful fruit tart offers a light contrast to the brownies. Its flaky crust and fresh fillings add brightness, making it a sophisticated finish to your sweet affair. Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies Recipe FAQs How do I know if my cherries are ripe enough for the filling? Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for deep, vibrant colors—ideally a rich red with some firmness. Avoid any that are overly soft or have dark spots all over, as these are signs of overripeness. Fresh cherries should have a sweet aroma and be shiny. If you can’t find fresh cherries, frozen cherries work perfectly as a substitute! Can I store Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies in the fridge? How long will they last? Very! You can store your Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This helps maintain their freshness, flavor, and creamy texture. Remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste! What’s the best way to freeze these brownies, and how long can they last? Absolutely! For longer storage, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to one month. To thaw, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours. For a delicious warm treat, you can reheat individual squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds! What should I do if my cheesecake layer is lumpy? Can I fix it? No worries! If your cheesecake layer turns out lumpy, make sure to fully soften your cream cheese before mixing it. This will help achieve that smooth, velvety texture. If lumps persist, you can use an immersion blender or a standard blender to blend the mixture until smooth. Are these brownies suitable for people with dietary restrictions, like gluten intolerance? Very! You can easily make these Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or almond flour. Just make sure to check that other ingredients, especially the baking powder, are also gluten-free. For those avoiding dairy, feel free to substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut oil instead of butter. Irresistibly Delicious Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies Delight in the rich flavors of Cherry Cheesecake Swirl Brownies that perfectly blend fudgy chocolate and creamy cheesecake swirls. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 50 minutes minsCooling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 20 minutes mins Servings: 12 squaresCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Brownie Base1 cup Unsalted Butter Provides fat for a rich, fudgy texture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.1.5 cups Granulated Sugar Sweetens the brownies; can be replaced with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Essential for a deep chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed cocoa can lend a smoother taste.1 teaspoon Salt Enhances overall flavor; leave out for a low-sodium version.1 teaspoon Baking Powder Adds lift and structure to the brownies; baking soda can work in a pinch.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Infuses flavor; vanilla is a great, all-purpose substitute.2 Large Eggs Binds ingredients and adds moisture; use flax eggs or gelled chia seeds for a vegan option.1 cup All-Purpose Flour Provides structure; for a gluten-free version, swap with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.1 cup Mini Chocolate Chips Adds extra chocolate flavor; utilize dark or white chocolate chips for variety.For the Cheesecake Layer8 oz Cream Cheese Creates the cheesecake layer; use Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option.0.5 cup Granulated Sugar (for cheesecake) Sweetens the cheesecake layer.2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (for cheesecake) Stabilizes the cheesecake layer, crucial for texture.0.25 cup Heavy Cream Adds richness to the cheesecake; full-fat sour cream can be a great swap.1 cup Cherry Pie Filling Provides tartness and sweetness; fresh or frozen cherries can make a delightful homemade filling. Equipment 9x13 inch baking panMedium saucepanLarge mixing bowlElectric Mixer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing or lining it with parchment paper.Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Stir in 1.5 cups of granulated sugar until smooth, then incorporate 1 cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk in the eggs one at a time and fold in 1 cup of flour and 1 cup of mini chocolate chips until just combined.In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 oz of cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1/2 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, and 1/4 cup of heavy cream, blending well. Mix in 1 large egg until the mixture is smooth.Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Spoon the cheesecake mixture on top and dollop cherry pie filling over it. Layer with the remaining brownie batter and swirl gently with a knife.Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted comes out with some moist crumbs.Cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.Slice into squares for serving, and enjoy either chilled or warmed in the microwave. Nutrition Serving: 1squareCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg NotesEnsure cream cheese is softened for smooth mixing. Cool brownies completely before slicing for cleaner cuts. Store in the refrigerator and allow to return to room temperature before serving for best texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
