Introduction
Dive into these incredible Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies and prepare for an explosion of flavors that will turn any gathering into a celebration! With layers of rich chocolate brownie and creamy strawberry cheesecake, this treat will be your new dessert obsession.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Brownie Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Topping:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup strawberry preserves
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the brownie base by melting the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then gradually fold into the butter mixture until well combined.
4. Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
5. For the cheesecake topping, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth using a mixer. Then, add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour the cheesecake layer over the brownie batter and distribute evenly.
7. Drop dollops of strawberry preserves over the cheesecake layer and use a knife to swirl through the batter for a marbled effect.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges have a light golden hue.
9. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares and serving.
Nutritional Information
Per serving, these indulgent brownies provide approximately:
Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Prepare the brownie base by melting the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the melted butter until well combined.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold this mixture into the butter mixture until well combined.
Step 5: Pour the Brownie Batter
Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Step 6: Prepare the Cheesecake Topping
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
Step 7: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until just combined.
Step 8: Pour the Cheesecake Layer
Pour the cheesecake layer over the brownie batter, distributing it evenly.
Step 9: Swirl in Strawberry Preserves
Drop dollops of strawberry preserves over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife to swirl through the batter for a marbled effect.
Step 10: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges have a light golden hue.
Step 11: Cool and Slice
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares and serving.
Notes
Ingredient Tips
Ensure that the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Storage Suggestions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving these brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh strawberries for an extra touch.
Cook techniques
Melting Butter
Heat unsalted butter in a saucepan over low heat to melt it without boiling. This creates a smooth base for your brownie batter.
Mixing Ingredients
When combining sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, whisk thoroughly to create an even mixture before adding dry ingredients. This ensures uniform sweetness and flavor throughout.
Sifting Dry Ingredients
Sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt to remove lumps and aerate the mixture. This step leads to a lighter brownie texture.
Folding Batter
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture to maintain the batter’s lightness. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies.
Creating the Cheesecake Layer
Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add eggs and vanilla. Be careful not to overmix after adding the eggs to avoid incorporating too much air.
Swirling Strawberry Preserves
Drop dollops of strawberry preserves over the cheesecake layer and use a knife to gently swirl without fully mixing. This creates an attractive marbled effect.
Baking the Brownies
Bake the brownies until the center is set and edges are lightly golden. This usually takes about 45 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of strawberry preserves?
Yes, you can use thawed frozen strawberries, but they may make the cheesecake layer more watery. Consider reducing other liquids if necessary.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
For a dairy-free option, you can use cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese replacement.
How do I store leftover brownies?
Store your brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Can I add chocolate chips to the brownie base?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips would enhance the chocolate flavor and make the brownies even more indulgent.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies combine the rich flavors of chocolate and cheesecake with fruity strawberry swirls, making them a delightful dessert for any occasion.
