If you are looking for a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with luscious strawberry cheesecake, you have to try this Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe. These brownies are the perfect harmony of fudgy brownie, creamy cheesecake, and sweet-tangy strawberry swirls that create an unforgettable marbled masterpiece. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a cozy night in, or a special occasion, these brownies offer a gorgeous presentation and incredible flavors that will make you want to bake them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from the fudgy base to the creamy cheesecake texture and the bright strawberry bursts that add both color and flavor.
- Fudge brownie mix (1 box, 18–19 oz): The foundation providing that irresistible rich chocolate flavor and chewy texture.
- Eggs, oil, and water (as directed): These help bring the brownie mix to life with a soft, moist consistency.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The silky, tangy star that creates the cheesecake layer and contrasts beautifully with the brownies.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake mixture perfectly without overpowering.
- Egg (1): Adds richness and helps the cheesecake set just right.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
- Strawberry jam or preserves (1/2 cup): Injects fruity sweetness and vibrant color, crucial for the swirled effect.
- Chopped fresh strawberries (1/2 cup, optional): Adds texture and a fresh burst of strawberry flavor on top.
- Nonstick spray: Ensures your brownies come out cleanly from the pan.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Brownie Batter
First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. This will keep your brownies from sticking and ensure an even bake. Then, prepare the brownie batter according to the package directions—combining the brownie mix with eggs, oil, and water. Pour this luscious batter evenly into your prepared pan, creating the base for your masterpiece.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar, one egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This luscious mixture will swirl beautifully through the brownies, creating that characteristic cheesecake texture and tang. Make sure there are no lumps to get the smoothest swirl possible.
Step 3: Layer and Swirl the Goodness
Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter, spaced out evenly. Between those dollops, add small spoonfuls of strawberry jam. Now comes the fun part—take a knife or a skewer and gently swirl the cream cheese and jam through the brownie batter. This marbling not only looks stunning but also blends flavor pockets throughout the brownies.
Step 4: Add Fresh Strawberries and Bake
If you’re using fresh chopped strawberries, sprinkle them evenly on top of the swirled batter. This adds an extra layer of fruity freshness and a pop of texture. Bake your brownies for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs. Let them cool completely before slicing to allow the cheesecake layer to set and the flavors to meld perfectly.
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
These Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies are delicious as they are, but a few garnish ideas can elevate presentation and flavor. A light dusting of powdered sugar brings an elegant touch, while a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream makes it feel like a special occasion dessert. Fresh strawberry slices placed on each piece highlight the fruity flair.
Side Dishes
While these brownies are decadent enough on their own, pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh berries can balance the richness and add complementary textures. A simple cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk will also perfectly accompany the sweet and tangy notes in the brownies.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifting, slice these brownies into elegant squares and arrange them on a platter with alternating fresh strawberry halves for a beautiful, inviting display. Wrapping individual brownies in parchment paper tied with twine makes charming edible gifts. You can also serve them layered with whipped cream and berries in small glass jars for a trendy dessert parfait.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cheesecakey layer means they keep best chilled. Stored properly, they stay fresh for up to 5 days, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends.
Freezing
These brownies freeze wonderfully! Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. When frozen, they maintain their texture and flavor for up to 3 months. To thaw, move them to the refrigerator overnight for a gentle defrost without compromising the creamy cheesecake layer.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies warm, gently reheat individual portions in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or until just heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the cream cheese from drying out. A warm brownie paired with cold ice cream makes an irresistible dessert experience.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of the box mix?
Absolutely! Homemade brownie batter works beautifully, and using your favorite recipe can add a personal touch. Just be sure to keep the batter thick enough to hold the swirled cheesecake and strawberry jam layers.
Is it necessary to chill the brownies before serving?
Chilling the brownies helps the cheesecake layer set firmly, making slicing cleaner and the texture more enjoyable. While you can serve them slightly warm, chilling for a few hours enhances their flavor and appearance.
What can I substitute for strawberry jam if I don’t have any?
If you don’t have strawberry jam, you can use other berry preserves like raspberry or mixed berry for a different fruit twist. Alternatively, a drizzle of fresh strawberry puree works well for a natural option.
Can these brownies be made gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free brownie mix and ensuring all other ingredients like jam are gluten-free, you can easily adapt this Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe to gluten-free dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Why do some spots in brownies have more cream cheese than others?
The random dollops and gentle swirling create pockets of cream cheese that bake unevenly on purpose, making every bite a delightful surprise with different textures and flavors. It’s part of what makes these brownies so visually stunning and tasty.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that offers the best of both worlds: rich chocolate and fresh strawberry cheesecake in one gorgeous dessert. The combination of fudgy, creamy, and fruity notes is just unbeatable. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—once you do, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to for celebrations or a sweet everyday treat that never fails to impress.
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously decadent Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies featuring a rich fudge brownie base swirled with creamy cheesecake and sweet strawberry jam, topped with fresh strawberries for a fruity finish. Perfect for dessert lovers looking for a delightful marbled treat.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box (18–19 oz) fudge brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed on the box)
- Nonstick spray for pan
Cheesecake Swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Topping
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh strawberries (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Pan and Brownie Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. Following the package instructions, prepare the fudge brownie batter and pour it evenly into the prepared pan.
- Make Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Layer Cheesecake and Strawberry Jam: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter. Add small spoonfuls of strawberry jam between the cream cheese drops to create pockets of fruity flavor.
- Swirl Mixtures: Using a knife, gently swirl the cream cheese mixture and strawberry jam into the brownie batter to create a beautiful marbled effect throughout the pan. If desired, sprinkle the chopped fresh strawberries evenly on top for additional texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. For best results, chill in the refrigerator for a few hours to set the cheesecake layer before slicing into 16 squares and serving.
Notes
- For a more pronounced strawberry flavor, substitute plain cream cheese with strawberry cream cheese.
- Chilling the brownies for a few hours before serving helps the cheesecake swirl set nicely and makes slicing easier.
- Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
