Description
These Peanut Butter Cheesecake Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownies with a creamy peanut butter cheesecake swirl, creating a decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of smooth peanut butter and tangy cheesecake atop classic cocoa brownies delivers a delightful texture and flavor contrast in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cheesecake Swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Mix dry and wet brownie ingredients: In one bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter with the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth and well mixed.
- Combine brownie batter: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just mixed, being careful not to overmix. Pour this brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Prepare cheesecake peanut butter mixture: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter together until smooth. Gradually add 1/4 cup sugar, then beat in the eggs one at a time until the mixture is fluffy and well combined.
- Add cheesecake swirl: Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the two mixtures together to create a marbled effect without fully blending.
- Bake and cool: Bake the brownies for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into approximately 12 servings.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother cheesecake mixture.
- Swirling the cheesecake and brownie mixtures just enough to create marbled patterns prevents them from fully mixing, preserving distinct flavors.
- Let brownies cool completely to ensure clean slices and better texture.
- Peanut butter can be creamy or crunchy based on preference.
