Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies

Ingredients

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter
• 8 ounces (225g) semisweet chocolate, chopped 8 ounces (225g) semisweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories: 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat: 22g (13g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 43g (32g sugars)
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chopped chocolate together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
3. 3.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually pour the melted chocolate mixture into the sugar and egg mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
5. 5.
   Add the flour and salt to the batter, and gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. 6.
   In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
7. 7.
   Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
8. 8.
   Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture on top of the brownie batter. Use a knife or skewer to create a marbled pattern by swirling the two batters together.
9. 9.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
10. 10.
    Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cream Cheese — Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature before using to ensure a smooth and creamy texture in the cheesecake layer.
• Chocolate — Use high-quality semisweet chocolate for the best flavor and texture in the brownie layer.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more intense chocolate flavor, use dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate.
• To achieve a clean marbled pattern, avoid overmixing the cream cheese mixture into the brownie batter.
• Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean and neat slices.
• Serve the brownies chilled for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a softer, gooey texture.
• Dust the finished brownies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving advice

Serve the Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies as a delightful dessert on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They are perfect for special occasions, potlucks, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, cut the brownies into neat squares and place them on a decorative serving platter. Dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an elegant touch. Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color.