Cherry Cheesecake Brownies: 5 Steps to Sweet Success!

Name: Cherry Cheesecake Brownies: 5 Steps to Sweet Success!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup cocoa powder; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup cherry pie filling

June 27, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something magical about baking cherry cheesecake brownies that brings me pure joy. I remember the first time I made them for a family gathering—the aroma of chocolate wafting through the kitchen had everyone buzzing with excitement! These brownies are the ultimate treat, combining rich chocolate with a creamy cheesecake layer and a luscious cherry topping that just sings with flavor. Every bite is a delightful explosion of textures, from the fudgy brownie base to the smooth cheesecake and the sweet-tart cherries. Trust me, once you try these cherry cheesecake brownies, you’ll be hooked! Perfect for any occasion, they’re always a crowd-pleaser and a joy to share.

cherry cheesecake brownies - detail 1

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing these cherry cheesecake brownies! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup cocoa powder
8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the cheesecake layer)
1 cup cherry pie filling (for topping)

Make sure your cream cheese is really softened—this helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture we’re after. And don’t skimp on the cherry pie filling; it’s the crowning glory of these brownies! Enjoy the process of measuring and mixing these ingredients, as each one plays a vital role in creating this delicious dessert.

How to Prepare Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

Preparing these cherry cheesecake brownies is a delightful journey that results in a decadent dessert! Let’s walk through each step together to ensure your brownies turn out perfectly.

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your brownies bake evenly from the moment they go in. While that’s heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with a little butter or non-stick spray. This helps your brownies release easily after baking, so you can cut them into perfect squares!

Create the Brownie Base

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once it’s melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. I love to use a whisk for this—it helps create a nice, smooth mixture! Make sure to mix it just until the ingredients are incorporated; over-mixing can lead to tough brownies.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cocoa powder. This step is important because it helps to evenly distribute the dry ingredients and prevents clumping. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. You don’t want to over-mix here either—just a few strokes until you see no dry flour left!

Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

Now, let’s focus on that creamy cheesecake layer! In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar, one egg, and the vanilla extract until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is key for ensuring that your cheesecake layer is luscious and free of lumps. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this; just make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything evenly.

Assemble and Bake

Now it’s time to assemble your masterpiece! Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly. Then, drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer—don’t worry about making it perfect. Follow this by spreading the remaining brownie batter on top, and then finish with the cherry pie filling, dolloping it over the surface. For an even bake, gently swirl the cherry filling into the brownie layer if you like. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are okay!). Let them cool in the pan before cutting into squares, so they hold their shape beautifully!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cherry cheesecake brownies are a true delight for the senses, and I can’t wait for you to experience them! Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe:

Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these brownies in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a sweet craving!
Rich Flavors: The combination of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake is simply divine, with the cherry topping adding a lovely burst of sweetness that balances everything beautifully.
Delightful Texture: You’ve got the fudgy brownie base, the smooth cheesecake layer, and the juicy cherries—all in one bite! It’s a texture lover’s dream!
Crowd-Pleaser: These brownies are always a hit at parties, and everyone loves the unique twist of flavors. They’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Versatile: Feel free to customize your toppings or mix-ins to suit your taste! Whether you stick with classic cherries or try something new, you’ll have a treat that’s uniquely yours.

Trust me, once you take a bite of these cherry cheesecake brownies, you’ll understand why they’re a favorite in my kitchen!

Tips for Success

To ensure your cherry cheesecake brownies turn out flawlessly every time, I’ve gathered some of my best tips to guide you through the process. Trust me, these little insights make a big difference!

Ingredient Quality: Always use high-quality chocolate and cocoa powder. It elevates the flavor of your brownies significantly. I recommend using Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and cheesecake layer, eliminating any lumps.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of the light, fudgy texture we want!
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your brownies as they bake! Ovens can vary, so start checking around the 30-minute mark. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs—this means they’re perfectly baked!
Cooling Time: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This ensures cleaner edges and helps the cheesecake layer set properly.
Presentation: For a stunning presentation, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving, or drizzle with chocolate ganache. You can even add a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry on top for that extra wow factor!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating cherry cheesecake brownies that not only taste amazing but also look fabulous. Happy baking!

Variations

One of the best things about cherry cheesecake brownies is how versatile they are! If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up, here are some fantastic variations to consider:

Different Fruit Toppings: While cherries are a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other fruits! Fresh raspberries or blueberries can add a delightful tartness that complements the chocolate beautifully. You could also try diced strawberries or even a mix of berries for a colorful twist!
Nutty Additions: If you’re a fan of crunch, consider folding in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter. They add a lovely texture and a nutty flavor that pairs well with the chocolate. Just remember to chop them roughly so they distribute evenly without overwhelming the other flavors.
Swirl in Nut Butter: For an extra layer of richness, try swirling in some peanut butter or almond butter into the cheesecake layer! Just drop spoonfuls of nut butter and use a knife to swirl it slightly—this will give your brownies a creamy, nutty flavor that’s hard to resist.
Cheesecake Flavor Variations: You can also change up the flavor of the cheesecake layer by adding a bit of lemon zest or almond extract for a different taste. This adds a fresh, bright note that works wonderfully with the chocolate and fruit.
Chocolate Variations: If you want to double down on chocolate, use chocolate chips in the brownie batter or sprinkle them on top before baking. They’ll melt and create even more gooey goodness!

These variations not only change the flavor profile but also add visual appeal and a personal touch to your brownies. So, don’t be afraid to get creative—after all, baking should be as fun as it is delicious!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve made these delicious cherry cheesecake brownies, you might find yourself with some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). To keep them fresh and tasty, here’s how to store and reheat them for your next indulgence.

First, allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once they’re cool, transfer them to an airtight container. I recommend cutting them into squares before storing; this way, they’re ready to grab and enjoy whenever you need a sweet fix. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days, but trust me, they probably won’t last that long!

If you want to store them for an extended period, you can freeze the brownies. Just wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply take them out and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. No need to reheat if you prefer them chilled, but if you love them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked feel. Just be careful not to overheat them, or you might lose that delightful fudgy texture!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor your cherry cheesecake brownies at their best, whether fresh out of the oven or as a sweet treat later on. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

When you’re indulging in these delicious cherry cheesecake brownies, it’s always good to have an idea of what you’re enjoying! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (1 brownie):

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 200mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 30g
Protein: 4g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. Enjoying these brownies in moderation is key to savoring their rich flavors while keeping an eye on the nutritional content!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different fruit topping instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! While cherry pie filling is a classic choice, you can easily swap it out for other fruits like raspberry or blueberry. Fresh berries work wonderfully and can add a lovely tartness that complements the chocolate and cheesecake layers.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?
If you find yourself without cream cheese, you can substitute it with mascarpone cheese or ricotta for a different yet delicious creamy layer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly, but it’ll still be scrumptious!

How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
To make these cherry cheesecake brownies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the blend for a good starch component to maintain the right texture. You might also want to add a bit of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already contain it.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer!

Can I double the recipe?
Sure! If you want to make a larger batch, simply double all the ingredients and use a larger baking pan, like a half-sheet pan. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary slightly with a larger batch.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
You’ll know the brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out clean, they might be overbaked, so start checking around the 30-minute mark!

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the brownies a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just let them cool completely before cutting and storing. They’ll taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld together!

Why did my cheesecake layer sink?
If your cheesecake layer sinks, it’s usually due to overmixing or not having the cream cheese at room temperature. Make sure you mix just until smooth and not too much, and always start with softened cream cheese for the best results.

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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.