Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 24 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Quick Answer
These Hershey's Cheesecake Brownies combine rich chocolate brownies with creamy cheesecake for a festive holiday dessert.
Ah, New York City in the fall! As the leaves turn and the air gets crisper, I can't help but feel that familiar spark of excitement for the upcoming holidays. With Thanksgiving and Christmas right around the corner, my mind races with thoughts of cozy gatherings and sweet treats. This year, I am thrilled to share a delightful recipe that perfectly combines two beloved desserts: rich chocolate brownies and creamy cheesecake. These Hershey's Cheesecake Brownies are both a showstopper and a crowd-pleaser, making them a great addition to any holiday table.
A Delicious Holiday Dessert
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Indulge in the perfect combination of rich chocolate brownies and creamy cheesecake.
- A stunning dessert that is sure to impress family and friends during the holiday season.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients that you may already have at home.
- Even a novice baker can achieve delicious results with this foolproof recipe.
- Versatile enough to enjoy warm with ice cream or chilled as a delightful treat!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Hershey's Cheesecake Brownies:
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (Hershey's preferred)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Hershey's Cheesecake Brownies (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create mouth-watering Hershey's Cheesecake Brownies that everyone will love.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined, achieving a glossy sheen that suggests a moist brownie ahead!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract. The aroma filling your kitchen will set the mood for baking!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, making sure to avoid overmixing for that fudgy texture.
Step 5: Stir in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed, allowing those irresistible chips to shine through the batter.
Step 6: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until combined, then add the egg and vanilla extract, beating just until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Layering
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Next, dollop the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer and spread gently. Finally, top with the remaining brownie batter, spreading to cover the cheesecake.
Step 8: Swirl and Bake
Create a beautiful marbled effect by swirling the cheesecake layer into the brownie batter using a knife or skewer. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center has a slight jiggle and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let the brownies cool in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Cut them into squares and prepare for the compliments!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Brownie Batter: This can lead to denser, cakey brownies.
- Skipping the Swirl: Don't underestimate the beauty and flavor that a good swirl adds!
- Not Allowing to Cool: Patience is key; let them cool properly for easier cutting and better texture.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a heavenly dessert experience!
Variations
- Substitute half of the cocoa powder with ground espresso for a mocha flavor.
- Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different flavor profile.
- Add crushed peppermint candies to the cheesecake layer for a festive twist.
- Incorporate nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the brownie batter for added texture.
How to Serve
- Serve as squares, topped with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert.
- Plate with a side of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the brownies a day in advance for deeper flavors.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a week.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to three months, wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
During my testing, I discovered that these brownies truly shine when served slightly warm, allowing the creamy cheesecake to meld beautifully with the fudgy brownie. They've become a staple in my holiday baking, and I can't wait to share them with friends and family this season!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 24 brownies · Serving Size: 1 brownie
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~250 calories · 3g protein · 30g carbs · 14g fat
Recipe by:
Hershey's Cheesecake Brownies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang for easy removal.
- Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined, achieving a glossy sheen that suggests a moist brownie ahead!
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract. The aroma filling your kitchen will set the mood for baking!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, making sure to avoid overmixing for that fudgy texture.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed, allowing those irresistible chips to shine through the batter.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar, mixing until combined, then add the egg and vanilla extract, beating just until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Next, dollop the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer and spread gently. Finally, top with the remaining brownie batter, spreading to cover the cheesecake.
- Create a beautiful marbled effect by swirling the cheesecake layer into the brownie batter using a knife or skewer. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center has a slight jiggle and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Cut them into squares and prepare for the compliments!
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of chocolate for the brownies?
Yes! While semi-sweet chocolate chips create a classic flavor, you can experiment with dark chocolate or even white chocolate if you prefer.
2. What can I substitute for cream cheese in the cheesecake layer?
You can use mascarpone cheese for a richer flavor or Greek yogurt for a lighter option. However, keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly.
3. How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The brownies are done when the center has a slight jiggle and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking for the best fudgy consistency!
4. Can I add nuts to the brownie batter?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded into the brownie batter for added texture and flavor.
5. How should I store leftover brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
