If you adore the rich, fudgy texture of brownies paired with the creamy, tangy delight of cheesecake plus the sweet burst of strawberries, then you are absolutely going to fall head over heels for this Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe. This decadent dessert combines all these flavors into one irresistible bite-sized treat that’s perfect for sharing or indulging on your own. The contrast of layers and the swirling of strawberry jam through velvety cheesecake atop dense brownies make every slice a showstopper you’ll want to make over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making this Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is wonderfully simple, thanks to a handful of everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to create a dessert bursting with flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays its part, from the fudgy brownie base to the silky cheesecake topping and the vibrant strawberry swirl.
- Brownie mix: Use a 15.5-ounce box for convenience; it provides the perfect chocolatey foundation without extra fuss.
- Eggs: One for the brownie batter and another for the cheesecake layer to ensure richness and structure.
- Water: Just a splash to bring the brownie batter to the right consistency.
- Cream cheese: Softened full-fat cream cheese creates that classic creamy, tangy cheesecake texture.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and balance to the cheesecake layer without overpowering.
- Pure vanilla extract: A teaspoon enhances all the flavors with warm aromatic notes.
- Strawberry jam: Fresh or store-bought, this brings in that cheerful, fruity strawberry pop that ties the whole recipe together beautifully.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8×8 metal baking pan with parchment paper, making sure the edges hang over the sides. This not only prevents sticking but helps you remove the brownies easily once baked. Setting up your pan properly sets you up for success with this Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
Follow the instructions on your brownie mix box using the egg and water listed in your ingredients, mixing until smooth. Pour this fudgy batter into your prepared pan. This layer is the dense, chocolatey base that provides all the indulgence you want in a brownie without complicated steps.
Step 3: Partial Bake the Brownies
Bake the brownie base for the time instructed on the box minus five minutes. Pulling the brownies out before they’re fully set ensures a soft, chewy texture and allows the cheesecake layer to bake on top without overcooking the bottom—you want these layers to be perfect together.
Step 4: Make the Cheesecake Mixture
While the brownies bake, beat together the softened cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl for about three minutes until glossy and smooth. Then add the second egg and vanilla extract, beating another minute. This rich, creamy cheesecake filling will add luscious texture and a subtle tang that contrasts deliciously with the chocolatey base.
Step 5: Add the Cheesecake Layer to the Brownies
Once your brownies are partially baked, carefully spoon the cheesecake mixture on top, spreading it evenly but gently so you don’t disturb the under-bake. This layering is where the magic begins in the Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe.
Step 6: Add and Swirl the Strawberry Jam
Dollop small spoonfuls of strawberry jam over the cheesecake layer. Using a knife or toothpick, swirl the jam gently through the cheesecake, creating beautiful marbled patterns without plunging too deep to the brownie layer beneath. This creates bursts of fruity sweetness and eye-catching color.
Step 7: Bake Again
Pop the pan back in the oven for about 20 minutes so the cheesecake layer can set perfectly without drying out. This step ensures the balance of textures will be spot on—creamy but firm on top with that moist, chocolatey brownie underneath.
Step 8: Cool and Chill
Remove the pan from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool. Once fully cooled to room temperature, place the brownies in the fridge for at least three hours to chill and firm up. This makes slicing neat and the flavors even more delightful. Patience here really pays off in the final result!
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
Serve these brownies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or even fresh sliced strawberries on top for an elegant touch. If you want to get fancy, a dollop of whipped cream adds a cloud-like softness that complements the brownie’s rich density beautifully.
Side Dishes
For a complete dessert experience, pair these brownies with vanilla ice cream or a scoop of strawberry sorbet. The cold creaminess or refreshing fruitiness contrasts nicely with the warm, rich flavors of the Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling festive, cut the brownies into mini squares and serve them on decorative skewers alongside fresh berries for a party platter. Or layer small chunks with whipped cream in a glass for a quick strawberry cheesecake brownie parfait that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight and the texture stays moist, making it a perfect make-ahead treat.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies for up to 3 months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain that creamy cheesecake texture.
Reheating
While these brownies are best enjoyed chilled, you can gently warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you prefer a softer bite. Just be careful not to heat too long or the cheesecake layer may become too soft.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownie batter for the Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite homemade brownie recipe instead of a box mix. Just make sure the batter isn’t too thin so it can support the cheesecake layer well.
What type of cream cheese is best to use?
Use full-fat, softened cream cheese for the best texture and flavor. Low-fat versions might affect the creaminess and firmness of the cheesecake topping.
Can I substitute the strawberry jam with fresh strawberries?
You could try chopping fresh strawberries and folding them into the cheesecake layer, but jam gives a smoother swirl and more intense strawberry flavor that complements this recipe perfectly.
How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?
Be sure not to overbeat the cream cheese mixture and avoid overbaking. Adding the cheesecake layer when the brownies are partially baked and then baking gently helps keep it smooth and crack-free.
Is it necessary to chill the brownies before serving?
Chilling is key! It lets the cheesecake layer set firmly and makes slicing easier. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully after a good chill—so don’t skip this step.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is truly a delightful fusion of two classic desserts that brings together the best of both worlds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because you deserve something sweet and comforting, these brownies will not disappoint. So go ahead, try the recipe and watch your family and friends fall in love with each rich, creamy, fruity bite just like I did!
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Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
Description
Delight in rich, fudgy Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies featuring a luscious cream cheese layer swirled with sweet strawberry jam. This easy-to-make dessert combines the chocolatey goodness of classic brownies with the creamy tang of cheesecake and a fruity kick, perfect for gatherings or an indulgent treat at home.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 15.5-ounce box brownie mix (440 grams)
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup water
Cheesecake Layer
- 1 8-ounce brick cream cheese, full fat and softened
- 65 grams granulated sugar (about 1/3 cup)
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons strawberry jam
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch metal baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the edges extend high for easy lifting. Set the pan aside.
- Prepare Brownie Batter: In a medium bowl, combine the brownie mix with the egg and water according to the package directions, stirring until smooth. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for the time indicated on the box minus 5 minutes to ensure the base remains soft enough for the cheesecake layer.
- Make Cheesecake Mixture: While the brownies bake, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar in a large bowl for about 3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate the large egg and pure vanilla extract into the cream cheese mixture and beat for an additional minute to combine thoroughly.
- Add Cheesecake Layer: Once brownies have baked for the reduced time, remove the pan from the oven but leave it on. Quickly and carefully spoon the cheesecake mixture over the brownie base, spreading gently to avoid mixing layers.
- Swirl Strawberry Jam: Drop small dollops of strawberry jam over the cheesecake layer. Using a knife or toothpick, swirl the jam to create a marbled effect, being cautious not to pierce through to the brownie layer.
- Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, allowing the cheesecake layer to set and lightly brown.
- Cool and Chill: Transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, refrigerate the brownies for at least 3 hours to firm up and enhance flavors before slicing and serving.
Notes
- To ensure smooth cream cheese batter, make sure cream cheese is fully softened before mixing.
- Use an 8×8 metal pan for best heat conduction and even baking.
- Chilling the brownies is essential for clean slices and improved texture.
- Variations: You can substitute other fruit jams like raspberry or blueberry for different flavors.
- Make sure not to overbake the cheesecake layer to avoid cracking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American

