Sabahan Coconut Cheesecake Brownies

Ingredients

In this Sabahan adaptation, the traditional American Cheesecake Brownies are enhanced with the addition of coconut, a staple ingredient in Sabahan cuisine. The coconut not only adds a unique flavor profile but also reflects the tropical essence of Sabah. The recipe also incorporates local techniques and preferences to create a fusion dessert that pays homage to both American and Sabahan culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Cheesecake Brownies, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar 1 cup (200g) brown 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
• 1/2 cup (60g) cocoa powder 1/2 cup (60g) cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut cream 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut cream
• 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 30g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until well combined.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. 5.
   Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. 6.
   In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, coconut cream, and coconut extract until smooth.
7. 7.
   Gradually add the coconut milk to the cream cheese mixture, mixing until well combined.
8. 8.
   Pour the coconut cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter in the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
9. 9.
   Drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter on top of the cheesecake mixture. Use a knife to swirl the two batters together, creating a marbled pattern.
10. 10.
    Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
11. 11.
    Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.
• Cream cheese — Make sure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy texture in the cheesecake layer.
• Coconut cream — Use full-fat coconut cream for a richer and creamier flavor.
• Cocoa powder — Choose a high-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
• Vanilla extract — Opt for pure vanilla extract to enhance the overall taste of the brownies.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra coconut flavor, sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the brownie batter before baking.
• Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting to achieve clean and neat slices.
• Serve the brownies chilled for a refreshing twist.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate, for a variation in flavor.
• Add a pinch of salt to the brownie batter to enhance the chocolate taste.

Serving advice

Serve the Sabahan Coconut Cheesecake Brownies as a delightful dessert after a Sabahan-inspired meal. Pair them with a scoop of coconut ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes for an added tropical touch.

Presentation advice

Present the Sabahan Coconut Cheesecake Brownies on a beautiful platter, allowing the marbled pattern to be visible. Dust the top with cocoa powder or powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch. Serve them on banana leaf-lined plates to incorporate a traditional Sabahan element.