Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

Name: Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter (melted); 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 4 eggs; 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose); 1 cup cocoa powder; 8 oz cream cheese; 1/2 can cherry pie filling

Published: June 7, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolatey brownies and creamy cheesecake creates a mouthwatering dessert.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip these up.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for celebrations or as an everyday snack; they fit any occasion!
Crowd-Pleaser: These brownies are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.
Make Ahead Option: They can be prepared in advance and stored for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Cherry Cheesecake Brownies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

9×13 inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Whisk
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Electric mixer: This tool helps you achieve a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling effortlessly.
Spatula: A spatula is essential for spreading brownie batter evenly and ensuring every layer is well combined.

Ingredients

These Cherry Cheesecake Brownies start with fudgy homemade brownies, topped with cheesecake and cherry pie filling. They are the BEST brownies!

For the Brownies

1 cup butter (melted, cooled slightly)
2 1/2 cups granulated sugar (500g)
1 tbsp vanilla
4 eggs
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or sub all-purpose) (190g)
1 cup cocoa (95g)
1/2 tsp salt

For the Cheesecake Filling

1 8 oz package cream cheese
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla
1/3 cup granulated sugar

For Topping

1/2 can cherry pie filling

How to Make Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9×13 pan with tin foil and spray it with cooking spray for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together melted butter and sugar until smooth.
2. Add vanilla and eggs; whisk until fully combined.
3. Incorporate flour, cocoa, and salt; stir until well mixed. The batter will be thick.

Step 3: Layer the Batter in the Pan

Spread just over half of the brownie batter into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Filling

Using an electric mixer:
1. Beat cream cheese, egg, vanilla, and sugar until smooth.
2. Spread this mixture over the brownie batter evenly.

Step 5: Add Cherry Pie Filling

Top the cheesecake layer with spoonfuls of cherry pie filling. Spread it slightly to cover as much area as possible.

Step 6: Finish with Brownie Batter

Drop spoonfuls of remaining brownie batter on top of the cherry filling. It will not spread easily; aim to cover all the filling without smoothing it out too much.

Step 7: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The center should appear set but may still have a little jiggle due to its gooey nature beneath.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow cooling to room temperature before cutting into bars. For easier cutting, refrigerate for a few hours if you can resist temptation!

How to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

These Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve them. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.

With Whipped Cream

Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a light and airy contrast to the rich brownies.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream. The melting ice cream creates a wonderful combination.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

Enhance the flavor by drizzling chocolate sauce over the brownies just before serving. It adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Fresh Cherries on Top

Garnish with fresh cherries for a pop of color and added freshness. They complement the cherry pie filling beautifully.

Pair with Coffee

Enjoy these brownies alongside a strong cup of coffee. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness perfectly.

How to Perfect Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

To ensure your Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are as perfect as possible, keep these tips in mind:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps in achieving a smoother batter and cream cheese mixture, resulting in better texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the brownie ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies.
Check Doneness Carefully: Since these brownies have a gooey layer, do not rely solely on the toothpick test; they might still jiggle slightly.
Chill Before Cutting: For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the brownies for a few hours before slicing into bars.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

Pairing side dishes with Cherry Cheesecake Brownies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the brownies.
Chocolate Mousse: This creamy dessert complements the flavors and textures while providing an elegant touch.
Cheesecake Bites: Serve mini cheesecake bites on the side for an added layer of cheesecake goodness.
Pecan Pie Bars: These nutty bars provide a contrasting flavor that pairs well with sweet brownies.
Caramel Sauce: A small bowl of caramel sauce for dipping can enhance each bite, making it even more decadent.
Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae bar where guests can customize their own sundaes using your brownies as a base.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cherry Cheesecake Brownies, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Skipping the cooling step: Allowing your brownies to cool to room temperature before cutting is vital. This helps them set and makes cutting easier.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for the best results in your brownies.
Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense brownies. Stir until just combined for a fudgy texture.
Baking at the wrong temperature: Always preheat your oven properly. An incorrect temperature can result in undercooked or overcooked brownies.
Ignoring the pan size: Using a different pan size can affect baking time and texture. Stick to the recommended 9×13 pan for these Cherry Cheesecake Brownies.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Keep them in their original baking pan covered with plastic wrap if preferred.

Freezing Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months, allowing for easy portion control.

Reheating Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat one brownie at a time for 15-20 seconds on medium power.
Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Cherry Cheesecake Brownies gluten-free?

You can substitute whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used. Just pit and chop them before adding to your cheesecake layer.

How do I store leftover Cherry Cheesecake Brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

What can I serve with Cherry Cheesecake Brownies?

These brownies pair well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top, enhancing their rich flavors.

How should I cut my brownies?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean cuts. This prevents the creamy layer from sticking to the knife.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings or mix-ins like nuts or different fruit fillings. Try making these delightful treats today, and impress your family and friends with this treat that combines two favorites into one!

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