Indulge in the delightful fusion of creamy cheesecake and rich, fudgy brownies. This homemade recipe brings together the best of both worlds, creating a mouthwatering treat that is perfect for any occasion.
If you don't usually use almond meal, raw honey, or semisweet chocolate chips, keep an eye out for these items at your local supermarket. They are essential for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in these cheesecake brownies.
Ingredients For Homemade Cheesecake Brownies
nonstick cooking spray: Used to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies from the pan.
eggs: Acts as a binding agent and provides structure to the brownies and cheesecake layer.
almond meal: A gluten-free alternative to flour that adds a slightly nutty flavor and moist texture.
unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the brownies their rich, chocolatey taste.
kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor by balancing sweetness.
baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the brownies rise and become fluffy.
raw honey: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the brownies.
vanilla extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor that complements both the brownie and cheesecake layers.
semisweet chocolate chips: Provides bursts of chocolate throughout the brownies.
cream cheese: The main ingredient for the cheesecake layer, adding creaminess and tang.
sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake layer and balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
One reader, Lamont Foster says:
These homemade cheesecake brownies are a delightful treat! The rich chocolate base pairs perfectly with the creamy cheesecake topping. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, they were a hit at my family gathering. Highly recommend for anyone looking to impress with a homemade dessert!
Techniques Required for Crafting Cheesecake Brownies
How to separate egg whites: Crack the egg and gently transfer the yolk back and forth between the two halves of the shell, letting the white fall into a bowl. Alternatively, use an egg separator tool. How to soften cream cheese: Place the cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for about 15-20 seconds until it is soft enough to mix easily. How to marbelize: Use a toothpick or a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.
How To Make Homemade Cheesecake Brownies
Enjoy a gluten-free sweet treat with these flourless homemade cheesecake brownies. Almond meal is used instead of flour then swirled with a topping.
Serves:
Ingredients
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 2large eggs
- ¾cupalmond meal,finely ground, or flour, such as Bob’s Red Mill
- ⅓cupunsweetened cocoa powder
- ⅛tspkosher salt
- ¾tspBaking Soda
- ½cupraw honey
- 2tspvanilla extract,divided
- ½cupsemisweet chocolate chips
- 6ozcream cheese,⅓ less fat, softened in the microwave
- 2tbspsugar
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Spray a nonstick 9×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray and line with two strips of parchment that is 8-inches wide and long enough to leave a 2-inch overhang on all sides.
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In a medium bowl, whisk 1 large whole egg with 1 egg yolk. Separate the whites and reserve, set aside.
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Add 1⁄4 cup water, honey, and 1 teaspoon of the vanilla and stir with the spatula until combined.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the almond meal, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda.
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Pour the egg mixture into the bowl with the dry mixture and mix well with a spatula. Fold in the chocolate chips.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
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Soften the package of cream cheese in the microwave, mix in sugar, reserved egg white, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla.
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Pour over the brownie mix and spread over the top with a spatula, marbelize the with a toothpick.
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Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean for about 30 minutes.
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Let cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into 12 bars.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200.50kcal
- Fat: 12.24g
- Saturated Fat: 4.75g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.74g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.61g
- Carbohydrates: 21.93g
- Fiber: 2.06g
- Sugar: 18.46g
- Protein: 4.27g
- Cholesterol: 46.59mg
- Sodium: 144.75mg
- Calcium: 29.77mg
- Potassium: 153.18mg
- Iron: 0.89mg
- Vitamin A: 65.21µg
- Vitamin C: 0.07mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Cheesecake Brownies
To achieve a perfectly marbled effect on your cheesecake brownies, use a toothpick or a skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese mixture into the brownie batter. Be careful not to overmix; you want distinct swirls of cheesecake and brownie for a visually appealing and delicious result.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Homemade Cheesecake Brownies
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Soften cream cheese quickly: Soften cream cheese in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to save time.
Use parchment paper: Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.
Combine dry ingredients first: Mix all dry ingredients in one bowl before adding wet ingredients to save time on mixing.
Microwave honey: Warm honey slightly in the microwave to make it easier to mix with other ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
nonstick cooking spray - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used to grease the pan and provide a rich flavor.
2 large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative.
¾ cup almond meal - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used if you don't need a gluten-free option.
⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is a caffeine-free alternative with a similar taste.
⅛ tsp kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity for a similar flavor.
¾ tsp baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 1 teaspoon of baking powder for every ¾ teaspoon of baking soda.
½ cup raw honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and is a good vegan option.
2 tsp vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor.
½ cup semisweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chunks: Dark chocolate chunks provide a richer flavor and are often less sweet.
6 oz cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used for a tangy and creamy texture, and it's lower in fat.
2 tbsp sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.
Presenting Your Homemade Cheesecake Brownies
Serve smaller portion sizes: Cut the cheesecake brownies into elegant, bite-sized pieces to ensure a refined presentation. Use a sharp knife to achieve clean edges.
Use decoration: Garnish each piece with a delicate drizzle of melted chocolate and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a sophisticated touch.
Add a fresh element: Place a small mint leaf or a single raspberry on top of each brownie piece to add a pop of color and freshness.
Plate with contrast: Serve the brownies on a white or light-colored plate to make the rich, dark chocolate and cream cheese layers stand out.
Use a sauce: Create a small pool of raspberry coulis or caramel sauce on the plate beside the brownie for an added layer of flavor and visual appeal.
Incorporate texture: Add a few crushed nuts or chocolate shavings around the plate to provide a contrast in texture and enhance the overall presentation.
Highlight layers: Arrange the brownies in a way that showcases the distinct cheesecake and brownie layers, emphasizing the marbled effect created with the toothpick.
Use edible flowers: Garnish the plate with a few small, edible flowers to elevate the visual appeal and add a touch of elegance.
Serve with a side: Pair the brownies with a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich flavors.
Finish with a dusting: Lightly dust the entire plate with powdered sugar for a final touch of refinement and to enhance the visual appeal.
Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Cheesecake Brownies
Allow the cheesecake brownies to cool completely before storing them. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the brownies soggy.
Cut the brownies into individual portions for easier storage and to avoid having to defrost the entire batch when you want to enjoy them later.
Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air from getting in and drying them out.
Place the wrapped brownies in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will provide an extra layer of protection against moisture and air.
If storing at room temperature, the cheesecake brownies will keep for up to 5 days. Ensure they are kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
For longer storage, place the wrapped and containerized brownies in the freezer. They will maintain their quality for up to 2 months.
When ready to enjoy a frozen brownie, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour. You can also microwave the brownie for a few seconds to warm it up slightly, but be careful not to overheat it, as this may cause the cream cheese topping to melt.
If you prefer to freeze the entire batch of brownies without cutting them, wrap the cooled pan tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When ready to serve, thaw the whole pan in the refrigerator overnight before cutting and enjoying.
How To Reheat Leftover Cheesecake Brownies
The best way to reheat leftover cheesecake brownies is to warm them up gently in the oven. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and place the brownies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they're warmed through and the cream cheese topping is slightly soft.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat individual brownies in the microwave. Place a brownie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 15-second intervals, checking after each interval to ensure it doesn't overheat and become rubbery. Usually, 30-45 seconds total is sufficient.
For a crispy exterior, you can reheat the brownies in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the brownies in the basket, ensuring they're not touching each other. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until they're warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you want to maintain the moistness of the brownies, you can wrap them in aluminum foil before reheating in the oven. This method helps prevent the brownies from drying out and keeps the cream cheese topping soft and gooey.
For a tasty twist, try warming up the brownies and serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. The contrast of warm, gooey brownie and cool, creamy ice cream is simply irresistible.
Interesting Trivia About Cheesecake Brownies
A unique aspect of this homemade cheesecake brownies recipe is the use of almond meal instead of traditional flour, making it a gluten-free option for those with dietary restrictions.
Is Making Cheesecake Brownies at Home Cost-Effective?
This homemade cheesecake brownies recipe is moderately cost-effective. The use of almond meal and raw honey can be pricier than traditional ingredients, but they add a unique flavor and nutritional benefits. The cream cheese and semisweet chocolate chips are standard pantry items for many households. Overall, this recipe scores a 7 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12 USD, considering the specialty ingredients.
Is This Decadent Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?
This homemade cheesecake brownie recipe has some healthy elements, but it also contains ingredients that may not be considered entirely nutritious. Let's break it down:
Healthy aspects:
- Almond meal provides healthy fats, fiber, and protein
- Unsweetened cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants and has no added sugar
- Raw honey is a natural sweetener with potential health benefits
Less healthy aspects:
- Semisweet chocolate chips contain added sugar and fat
- Cream cheese and sugar in the cheesecake layer add saturated fat and refined sugar
- The recipe lacks fiber-rich ingredients like whole grains or fruits
While this treat can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, there are ways to make it even healthier:
- Replace the semisweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks (at least 70% cocoa) to reduce sugar and increase antioxidants
- Swap the cream cheese with a reduced-fat version or Greek yogurt for a protein boost and less saturated fat
- Incorporate fiber-rich ingredients like oats, whole wheat flour, or pureed fruits (e.g., applesauce or mashed bananas) to replace some of the almond meal
- Experiment with reducing the amount of honey and sugar used, as the chocolate and cream cheese already provide sweetness
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, for an extra crunch and dose of healthy fats
Editor's Opinion on This Cheesecake Brownie Recipe
This homemade cheesecake brownies recipe offers a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake. The use of almond meal and raw honey provides a healthier twist, while the semisweet chocolate chips ensure a decadent treat. The marbling technique adds an elegant touch, making these brownies visually appealing. However, the recipe could benefit from more precise instructions on marbling and ensuring the cream cheese layer is evenly spread. Overall, it's a delicious and creative dessert that balances indulgence with a hint of health-consciousness.
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Why trust this Homemade Cheesecake Brownies Recipe:
This homemade cheesecake brownies recipe combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy delight of cheesecake. Using almond meal and raw honey makes it a slightly healthier option without sacrificing flavor. The semisweet chocolate chips add an extra layer of indulgence. With clear, easy-to-follow instructions, even novice bakers can achieve a delicious result. Trust this recipe for its balance of textures and flavors, and enjoy a dessert that's sure to impress.
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