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