Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Easy for a Decadent Delight

Name: Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Easy for a Decadent Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup cherry pie filling

May 31, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dessert: cherry cheesecake brownies! This indulgent treat combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer and the delightful burst of cherries on top. Seriously, it’s a match made in dessert heaven! You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up these cherry cheesecake brownies, making them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a potluck with friends. Trust me, everyone will be raving about them!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity while still delivering a wow factor. Just imagine cutting into a square and revealing those luscious layers, with the vibrant red cherry pie filling peeking through. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience! And the best part? You can enjoy these brownies fresh out of the oven or chill them for a refreshing treat on a warm day. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get started on making these cherry cheesecake brownies easy and oh-so-delicious!

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Ingredients for Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Easy

Before you dive into the baking process, let’s gather everything you’ll need for these scrumptious cherry cheesecake brownies. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready makes the whole experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup unsalted butter, melted: Make sure it’s fully melted but not too hot – let it cool slightly if needed to avoid cooking the eggs when mixed.
2 cups granulated sugar: This will give that classic sweetness to your brownies, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese.
1 cup brown sugar: Use light or dark brown sugar – it adds moisture and a richer flavor!
4 large eggs: These should be at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract is best for that lovely depth of flavor.
1 cup all-purpose flour: This helps give structure to the brownies, so don’t skip it!
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Use high-quality cocoa for a richer chocolate taste.
1/2 teaspoon salt: A little salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1 cup cream cheese, softened: Make sure this is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
1/2 cup powdered sugar: This will sweeten the cheesecake layer without making it gritty.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Yes, another splash for the cheesecake layer to tie everything together.
1 cup cherry pie filling: This is where the magic happens! Use your favorite brand or homemade for the best results.

Now that you have everything at hand, you’re all set to create a delightful treat that will make your taste buds sing! Let’s move on to the preparation steps so you can bring this dreamy dessert to life.

How to Prepare Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Easy

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—preparing these cherry cheesecake brownies! I promise you, the process is just as delightful as the end result. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a rich, decadent dessert that everyone will adore!

Prepping the Brownie Base

First things first, let’s whip up that luscious brownie base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with both the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Mix them together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency—this usually takes about 2 minutes. It’s important to let the melted butter cool slightly before adding the sugars; you don’t want to scramble those eggs! Once that’s done, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures everything is well incorporated and gives your brownies that fudgy texture we all love. Lastly, stir in the vanilla extract. Now, in a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—be careful not to overmix!

Creating the Cheesecake Layer

Time to make that creamy cheesecake layer! In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to get a smooth and creamy texture—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. If you notice any lumps, just keep mixing until everything is velvety. Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature; this is key for a lump-free mixture. You want it to be light and fluffy, so take your time with this step!

Assembling the Layers

Now for the fun part—layering! Pour half of the brownie batter into your greased 9×13 inch baking pan and spread it evenly. Next, carefully dollop the cheesecake mixture on top of the brownie layer. You can use a spatula to smooth it out, but don’t worry about perfection. Then, drop spoonfuls of the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer. Finally, pour the remaining brownie batter on top, and with a knife, gently swirl the layers together to create a marbled effect. This step is crucial for that beautiful presentation, so have fun with it! A simple back-and-forth motion will do the trick.

Baking and Cooling Instructions

It’s time to bake! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pop the pan in. Bake the brownies for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs—not wet batter! Once baked, let them cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Trust me, this is vital for achieving those clean edges you want when serving. Enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen—it’s pure bliss!

Tips for Success with Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Easy

Ready to make your cherry cheesecake brownies truly unforgettable? Here are some practical tips that’ll help you nail this recipe and impress everyone who gets a taste!

Ingredient Selection Matters

Start with high-quality ingredients! Choose a good brand of unsweetened cocoa powder for that deep chocolate flavor. I love using Ghirardelli or Valrhona because they make a noticeable difference. When it comes to the cream cheese, make sure it’s full-fat and at room temperature. This ensures a smooth, creamy cheesecake layer. And don’t skimp on the cherry pie filling—a premium brand or homemade will elevate your brownies to another level!

Baking Adjustments

Ovens can be tricky, so keep an eye on your brownies as they bake. If you know your oven runs hot, start checking for doneness a few minutes early. Remember, the brownies will continue to cook a bit as they cool in the pan, so it’s better to err on the side of slightly underbaking. If you want to make the brownies richer, consider adding a handful of chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra decadence. Yum!

Mastering Presentation

For a stunning presentation, dust your cooled brownies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving. This adds a lovely touch and makes the cherry filling pop! You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the top for that extra wow factor. Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off for a neat drizzle. And don’t forget to cut the brownies with a sharp knife—wiping the knife with a damp cloth between cuts helps you achieve those clean edges.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can take them up a notch by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Trust me, it’s the perfect pairing! For an added twist, consider adding a few fresh cherries on top as a garnish for that beautiful pop of color and freshness.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create cherry cheesecake brownies that will leave everyone coming back for more! Happy baking!

Variations on Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Easy

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to mix things up, there are so many fun ways to customize your cherry cheesecake brownies! Here are a few creative ideas to inspire you:

Different Fruit Fillings

While cherry pie filling is delicious, why not experiment with other fruits? Fresh or canned blueberries, raspberries, or peach slices can bring a whole new flavor profile to your brownies. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit you choose, as some are sweeter than others!

Chocolate Drizzles

For chocolate lovers, a rich chocolate drizzle can elevate your brownies to new heights. Simply melt some chocolate chips or a chocolate bar and drizzle it over the cooled brownies for an extra layer of decadence. You can even add a hint of sea salt on top for a delightful sweet-salty contrast!

Flavor Extracts

Get creative with flavor extracts! Instead of just vanilla, try adding a splash of almond extract or lemon extract to the cheesecake layer for a unique twist. These subtle changes can completely transform the overall taste and make your brownies stand out.

Nuts and Crunch

If you love a little crunch, consider folding in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the brownie batter. This adds a delightful texture and pairs beautifully with the creamy cheesecake layer. Just be cautious not to overdo it; you want to maintain that luscious fudgy experience!

Brownie Layer Variations

Feeling bold? You could even swap out some of the cocoa powder for peanut butter or Nutella! Just remember to adjust the flour accordingly, as this will change the consistency of the brownie base. The combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and cherry is simply irresistible!

With these variations, you can put your personal spin on cherry cheesecake brownies and create a dessert that’s uniquely yours. So go ahead, have fun in the kitchen, and let your creativity flow!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve whipped up your delicious cherry cheesecake brownies, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their mouthwatering flavor and texture. Here’s how to keep those indulgent squares fresh for as long as possible!

First, let the brownies cool completely in the pan before transferring them to a storage container. If you try to store them while they’re still warm, you’ll end up with soggy brownies, and nobody wants that! Once cooled, you can cut them into squares and either layer them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap. If you’re stacking them, I recommend placing a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

These cherry cheesecake brownies can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you want them to last longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. The chilled brownies are delightful, too, especially on a warm day!

If you find yourself with leftovers after the week, you can also freeze them for later enjoyment. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply remove the brownies from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

For reheating, I recommend using the microwave. Just pop a brownie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for about 10-15 seconds. This way, you’ll enjoy that fudgy texture as if they were just baked! If you prefer them warm, you can also reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your cherry cheesecake brownies without losing any of their deliciousness!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Before you dive into these delightful cherry cheesecake brownies, it’s important to note that the nutritional values provided are general estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. Factors such as the type of butter, sugar, or pie filling can significantly affect the overall nutrition of the finished brownies. While I strive to give you the best information possible, precise data is not provided. So, if you’re keeping a close eye on your dietary intake, consider calculating values based on the exact ingredients you choose to use. Happy baking and enjoy every delicious bite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Can I use different types of fruit filling for these brownies?
Absolutely! While cherry pie filling is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches. Just keep in mind that each fruit may require slight adjustments in sweetness, depending on how tart or sweet they are.

Q2. How do I know when the cherry cheesecake brownies are done baking?
A great way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter), you’re good to go! Also, the edges should slightly pull away from the sides of the pan.

Q3. Can I make these cherry cheesecake brownies ahead of time?
Definitely! These brownies store well, making them perfect for preparing in advance. You can bake them a day or two ahead and keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They also taste great chilled!

Q4. What’s the best way to achieve clean cuts when slicing the brownies?
To get those perfect, clean edges, let the brownies cool completely before cutting. Using a sharp knife helps too! You can even wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for super neat squares.

Q5. Can I freeze the cherry cheesecake brownies for later?
Yes, indeed! Just wrap the cooled brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll maintain their deliciousness for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature.

Q6. What if I want a denser brownie texture?
If you prefer denser brownies, you can reduce the baking time slightly. Just keep an eye on them while baking, and adjust based on your oven’s performance. You might also consider adding a bit more cocoa powder for that extra richness!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try these cherry cheesecake brownies as I am to share them! I can’t wait for you to experience the delightful combination of fudgy brownie and creamy cheesecake topped with luscious cherries. It’s such a treat, and I just know it’s going to be a hit, whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them as a sweet indulgence after dinner.

Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! I encourage you to experiment with different fruit fillings or add your own twist to the cheesecake layer. Maybe you’ll find a new favorite variation! And if you do, please share your experiences in the comments below. I love hearing how you put your spin on my recipes.

As you bake, remember to embrace the process and have fun with it! If you run into any bumps along the way or just want to share how your brownies turned out, I’m here for it. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.