Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly balanced bite of fudgy chocolate, tangy blackberries, and a silky smooth cheesecake topping – that’s the experience you’re about to have with this ultimate Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies recipe. Get ready to dazzle your taste buds and impress your guests with this irresistible dessert that combines the best of both worlds.
Baking is often seen as an exact science, but with this recipe, we’re about to throw caution to the wind and let your creativity shine. While the foundation is a classic brownie recipe, we’ve added a luscious blackberry cheesecake twist that will elevate your dessert game to new heights. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delectable adventure!
These Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies are the perfect indulgence for any occasion from cozy family gatherings to elegant dinner parties. With their rich, fudgy texture and bursts of vibrant blackberry flavor, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your household.
🥰 Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe ?
There’s so much to love about this Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies recipe. First and foremost, the flavor combination is simply out of this world. The deep, chocolatey notes of the brownies are perfectly balanced by the tart and sweet blackberries, while the creamy cheesecake topping adds a luxurious finishing touch. It’s a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
But the magic doesn’t stop there. These brownies are also incredibly easy to prepare, making them the perfect dessert for both novice and experienced bakers. With just a few simple steps, you can have a batch of these decadent treats ready to serve. And the best part? They can be made ahead of time, so you can enjoy them without the stress of last-minute baking.
Ingredients
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup fresh blackberries, halved
The key ingredients that make this recipe truly special are the fresh blackberries and the cream cheese. The blackberries provide a burst of tart and sweet flavor that perfectly complements the rich chocolate of the brownies. Meanwhile, the cream cheese creates a luscious, velvety cheesecake topping that takes this dessert to the next level.
For the best results, be sure to use high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh, ripe blackberries and full-fat cream cheese for the most decadent texture. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or semi-sweet, to customize the flavor to your liking.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal of the brownies later.
- Make the Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Topping: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Brownies: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Gently spoon the cheesecake mixture on top of the brownie batter, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Finally, scatter the fresh blackberry halves evenly over the cheesecake topping.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake topping is set and the edges are lightly golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in a dry texture.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours) before cutting and serving. This allows the cheesecake topping to set and the flavors to meld together.
Timing Overview
• Cook time: 40-45 minutes
• Chill time: 2 hours
• Baking time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 16 servings.
• Protein: 5 g
• Sodium: 199 mg
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 19 g
• Fiber: 2 g
🌿 Fun Alternatives to Try
• To Make it Vegan: Replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute, the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative, and the eggs with flax or chia “eggs” (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes).
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the brownie batter for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the blackberries.
✨ How to Serve This Dish Like a Pro ?
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the brownies with a dollop of fresh whipped cream, a sprinkle of toasted almond slivers, and a few fresh blackberries for a truly impressive presentation.
• Beverage Pairing: These brownies pair wonderfully with a glass of rich, full-bodied red wine or a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.
🚫 Your Guide to a Flawless Execution
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure that all the ingredients, especially the cream cheese, are at room temperature before you begin. This will help them blend together seamlessly and prevent a lumpy cheesecake topping.
• Mistake 3 – Not Preheating the Oven: Preheat your oven thoroughly before baking. This ensures that the brownies will rise properly and bake evenly throughout.
❄️ Preserve Your Creation: Storage Tips
• Freezing: These brownies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cut them into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. To thaw, simply transfer the wrapped brownies to the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheating: If you’d like to enjoy the brownies warm, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the cheesecake topping.
❓ FAQs
Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen blackberries in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using to prevent excess moisture in the brownies. The flavor and texture may be slightly different, but the end result will still be delicious.
How can I get the cheesecake topping to be extra smooth and creamy?
To ensure a silky smooth cheesecake topping, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before beating it. This will help it incorporate air and create a velvety texture. You can also beat the cream cheese for a few extra minutes to ensure it’s completely smooth and free of any lumps.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, these Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies are even better when made a day in advance. The flavors have time to meld, and the cheesecake topping will set up beautifully. Just be sure to refrigerate them until ready to serve.
How can I get the blackberries to stay evenly distributed throughout the brownies?
To keep the blackberries from sinking to the bottom, gently fold them into the cheesecake topping just before spreading it over the brownie batter. This will help them stay suspended throughout the layers. You can also reserve a few blackberry halves to press into the top of the cheesecake layer for a beautiful presentation.
What’s the best way to cut these brownies cleanly?
For the cleanest, most professional-looking cuts, make sure the brownies are completely chilled before slicing. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. Optionally, you can also run the knife under hot water for a few seconds before slicing to help it glide through the cheesecake topping more easily.
🥳 Wrapping It Up
There you have it – the ultimate Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies recipe that’s sure to impress and delight. With its irresistible combination of fudgy chocolate, tangy blackberries, and silky smooth cheesecake, this dessert is a true masterpiece. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these brownies are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dessert that will have your friends and family raving. Indulge in the perfect fusion of brownie and cheesecake, and let the delicious blackberry flavors transport you to a world of pure bliss. Bon appétit!
The Ultimate Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal of the brownies later.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Gently spoon the cheesecake mixture on top of the brownie batter, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Finally, scatter the fresh blackberry halves evenly over the cheesecake topping.
- Bake the Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies for 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake topping is set and the edges are lightly golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in a dry texture.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours) before cutting and serving. This allows the cheesecake topping to set and the flavors to meld together.
