Cheesecake Swirl Brownies

Here is the full recipe for these incredible Cheesecake Swirl Brownies:

Cheesecake Swirl Brownies

Prep time: 20 mins | Bake time: 35–40 mins | Servings: 12–16 squares

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base:

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup (65g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup (90g) semi-sweet chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prep the Oven & Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly.

2. Make the Brownie Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined.
2. Add the eggs and vanilla extract; whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and slightly glossy.
3. Gently fold in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt with a spatula until just combined.
4. Fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Set aside ⅓ cup of the brownie batter for swirling later, and pour the rest into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer.

3. Make the Cheesecake Mixture

1. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
2. Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and lump-free.

4. Layer & Swirl

1. Dollop the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie base in the baking dish.
2. Spoon the reserved ⅓ cup of brownie batter in small dollops over the cheesecake layer.
3. Use a butter knife or toothpick to gently swirl the mixtures together to create a marbled pattern.
4. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top.

5. Bake & Cool

1. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (the cheesecake layer should be mostly set with a slight jiggle in the very center).
2. Allow the brownies to cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour for clean, easy slicing.
3. Top with a piece of dark chocolate before serving!