Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
If you’re craving a dessert that marries the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy tang of cheesecake and a vibrant burst of blackberry flavor, this Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is the answer to your sweet tooth prayers. Imagine biting into a dense, chocolatey brownie layered with velvety cheesecake, then experiencing a fruity swirl of blackberry that makes every forkful a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Whether it’s for an afternoon treat or a festive gathering, these brownies are guaranteed to wow everyone who tries them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Each element plays a vital role—from the rich cocoa in the brownie layer to the smooth cream cheese in the cheesecake, and finishing with the fresh or preserved blackberries that provide that juicy, fruity pop.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted): Provides a moist, tender base with rich buttery flavor for the brownie.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens both brownie and cheesecake layers perfectly.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind the brownie batter and add structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, adding warmth and depth.
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers that deep, intense chocolate taste in the brownies.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Gives the brownies just the right amount of tenderness without being cakey.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the chocolate flavor.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Creates the creamy, luscious cheesecake layer.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer softly.
- 1 large egg: Adds richness to the cheesecake and helps it set.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle aromatic note to the cheesecake layer.
- ⅓ cup blackberry jam or preserves (warmed slightly): Acts as a vivid, fruity swirl; alternatively use ½ cup fresh blackberries mashed with 1 tablespoon sugar for a fresher touch.
How to Make Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and either line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until you achieve a smooth, glossy mixture. Add the eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly and then stir in the vanilla extract. Next, carefully fold in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt—mix gently until just combined to keep your brownies dense and fudgy rather than cakey. Spread this luscious brownie batter evenly across the base of your prepared pan.
Step 2: Create the Cheesecake Layer
In another clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, egg, and vanilla using an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy with no lumps. This layer is what brings that deliciously tangy, soft contrast to the rich brownie base. Gently spoon or spread the cheesecake layer over the brownie batter evenly, taking care not to disturb the brownie layer beneath.
Step 3: Add the Blackberry Swirl
Dollop spoonfuls of slightly warmed blackberry jam or the mashed fresh blackberries scattered across the cheesecake layer. Take a sharp knife or toothpick and swirl the blackberry mixture through the cheesecake carefully to create beautiful marbled patterns. This not only looks stunning but brings bursts of fruity brightness in every bite.
Step 4: Bake and Chill
Bake your masterpiece in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is just set but still has a slight wobble, and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Let the brownies cool completely right in the pan before transferring to the fridge to chill for at least one hour. This chilling step is key to firm up the cheesecake and make slicing neat and easy.
How to Serve Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the presentation and flavor, sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar or add a few fresh blackberries on top just before serving. A sprig of fresh mint can add a lovely contrast in color and a refreshing note that complements the blackberry beautifully.
Side Dishes
These brownies stand beautifully on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream creates a truly indulgent dessert experience. For a festive occasion, drizzling a bit of chocolate or berry sauce elevates it further.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the brownies into small bite-sized squares and serving them on cocktail picks for a party-friendly finger food. Layer bits of brownie and cream cheese crumble over fresh berries in a parfait glass for a stunning dessert trifle. The Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is versatile enough to inspire your dessert creativity!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover brownies tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious and moist for up to 5 days, making them perfect for quick snacks or dessert on demand.
Freezing
These brownies freeze well! Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
If you prefer warm brownies, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, or warm a slice in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 to 7 minutes. Just be careful not to overheat and dry out the soft cheesecake layer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen blackberries work well once slightly thawed and mashed with sugar. Just make sure to drain any excess juice to avoid making the cheesecake layer too wet.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend made for 1-to-1 substitution. It will keep the brownie layer fudgy and delicious but check your cocoa powder brand for any gluten-containing additives.
Can I make mini versions in muffin tins?
Definitely! Simply line a muffin tin with liners and reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes. Keep a close eye on them with the toothpick test for doneness as smaller sizes bake faster.
What if I don’t have jam or preserves for the swirl?
Fresh mashed blackberries mixed with a little sugar are a fantastic substitute, providing natural sweetness and a fresh tang. You could even experiment with other berries like raspberry or blueberry for a different twist.
Do I have to chill the brownies before slicing?
Chilling is highly recommended because it helps the cheesecake layer firm up, making clean and neat slices possible. You can enjoy them warm but cutting may be messier and stickier.
Final Thoughts
The Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite desserts to make and share, perfect for those moments when you want something that feels both comforting and a little special. It’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight but impressive enough to bring to any party or family gathering. Trust me, once you try this combination of chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and tangy blackberry, it’ll become a recipe you keep coming back to again and again.
Print
Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 9–12 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in a rich and creamy dessert with these Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies, featuring a fudgy brownie base topped with a luscious cheesecake layer and swirled with vibrant blackberry jam for a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Blackberry Swirl:
- ⅓ cup blackberry jam or preserves (warmed slightly), or ½ cup fresh blackberries mashed with 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Make the Brownie Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract, mixing well to combine. Stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt until just incorporated. Spread this brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, one egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread this cheesecake mixture gently over the brownie layer in the pan.
- Add the Blackberry Swirl: Spoon dollops of warmed blackberry jam or mashed blackberries over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the blackberry mixture into the cheesecake, creating a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep the texture fudgy.
- Cool and Chill: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, chill them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set fully before slicing.
Notes
- For a stronger berry flavor, you can swirl in extra jam or sprinkle fresh blackberries on top before serving.
- Store these brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they keep well for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
