Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers who crave a creamy, fruity twist. These rich, fudgy brownies are topped with a smooth cheesecake layer and swirled with sweet cherry filling, creating the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a holiday treat, or just because you love indulgent desserts, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ A step-by-step recipe for Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
✔ The best ingredients & baking tips for a perfect texture
✔ How to store, refrigerate, and freeze these brownies
✔ Common mistakes to avoid for the best results
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
Let’s dive into what makes this dessert so special!
What Makes Cherry Cheesecake Brownies So Special?
>>> The Perfect Combination of Flavors & Textures
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies combine three iconic desserts into one heavenly treat:
- Fudgy brownies – A rich, chocolatey base with a soft, chewy center.
- Creamy cheesecake – A smooth, velvety layer that balances the brownie’s richness.
- Sweet cherry swirl – A fruity topping that adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness.
This fusion of decadent chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and vibrant cherries makes each bite irresistible!
Why This Recipe Stands Out from the Rest
Many cherry cheesecake brownie recipes fall short because they lack:
✔ The right brownie texture – Too cakey or too dry.
✔ A smooth cheesecake layer – Often overbaked and cracked.
✔ Balanced cherry flavor – Too tart or overpowering.
In this recipe, we’ll use expert techniques to ensure the perfect consistency and flavor balance so your brownies come out flawless every time.
Ingredients You Need for Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
To create the perfect Cherry Cheesecake Brownies, you’ll need a mix of classic baking staples and a few special ingredients. Below is a breakdown of each component:
**** For the Brownie Layer (Rich & Fudgy) ****
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
**** For the Cheesecake Layer (Creamy & Smooth) ****
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
**** For the Cherry Swirl ****
- ½ cup cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
💡 Tip: If using homemade cherry compote, cook cherries with sugar and lemon juice for a fresher taste.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter
- In a mixing bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar together.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.
- Sift in flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Stir gently until just combined (don’t overmix!).
- Pour ¾ of the batter into the baking pan, reserving some for layering.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until creamy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter.
Step 4: Add the Cherry Swirl
- Spoon cherry pie filling in small dollops over the cheesecake layer.
- Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the cherries into the cheesecake.
- Drizzle the remaining brownie batter over the top in a few streaks.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing for clean layers.
Want more sweet inspiration? Join our community on Facebook and share your Cherry Cheesecake Brownie creations!
Tips for Perfect Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
*** How to Make the Brownie Layer Extra Fudgy
- Use melted butter instead of oil for richness.
- Don’t overmix the batter, or the brownies will be too dense.
*** Avoid Overbaking the Cheesecake Layer
- Remove from the oven when the center still jiggles slightly.
- It will continue to set as it cools.
*** Best Swirling Techniques for a Beautiful Look
- Use a toothpick or butter knife for gentle swirling.
- Avoid overmixing – you want distinct cherry, cheesecake, and brownie layers.
How to Store and Keep Cherry Cheesecake Brownies Fresh
**** How Long Do They Last?
- At room temperature: Up to 2 days (if your kitchen is cool).
- In the refrigerator: Up to 5 days in an airtight container.
**** Do They Need Refrigeration?
- Yes! Since they contain cream cheese, refrigeration is recommended.
**** Best Containers for Storage
- Use an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
Can You Freeze Cherry Cheesecake Brownies?
**** Is It Possible?
- Yes! These brownies freeze very well if stored properly.
**** How to Freeze Them
- Let the brownies cool completely.
- Slice into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Store for up to 3 months.
**** Best Thawing Method
- Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving for best texture.
Best Ways to Serve Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
**** Toppings & Garnishes
- A dusting of powdered sugar
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel
Perfect Drink Pairings
- Coffee or espresso for a rich contrast
- Milk for a classic dessert experience
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
Overmixing the Brownie Batter
- Why it’s bad: Makes the brownies dense and tough instead of fudgy.
Baking at the Wrong Temperature
- Too high = dry brownies
- Too low = undercooked cheesecake
Using the Wrong Type of Cherries
- Best choice: Cherry pie filling or homemade cherry compote.
- Avoid: Canned cherries in water (they lack flavor).
Looking for another delicious dessert? Don’t miss these Egg-Free Cinnamon Rolls — soft, sweet, and super easy to make!”
If you’re craving something savory to pair with these sweet brownies, try this Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken for a mouthwatering combo
>> RECIPE <<
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Cherry Cheesecake Brownies: The Best Fudgy & Creamy Dessert Ever
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and sweet cherry swirls for the ultimate indulgent dessert. Perfect for any occasion!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 brownies 1x
Ingredients
📌 For the Brownie Layer (Rich & Fudgy)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
For the Cheesecake Layer (Creamy & Smooth)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cherry Swirl
- ½ cup cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
💡 Pro Tip: If using homemade cherry compote, cook cherries with sugar and lemon juice for a fresher taste!
Instructions
📝 Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Make the Brownie Batter
- In a bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar together.
- Add eggs and vanilla, whisking until smooth.
- Sift in flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
- Stir gently until combined (don’t overmix!).
- Pour ¾ of the batter into the pan, reserving some for topping.
3️⃣ Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter.
4️⃣ Add the Cherry Swirl
- Spoon cherry pie filling in small dollops over the cheesecake layer.
- Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the cherries into the cheesecake.
- Drizzle the remaining brownie batter on top for extra richness.
5️⃣ Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.
- Let cool completely before slicing for clean layers.
📦 Storage & Freezing
- At room temp: Up to 2 days (if cool).
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To serve: Thaw overnight in the fridge or let sit at room temp for 30 minutes.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
✔ Pair with: Coffee, milk, or vanilla ice cream
✔ Toppings: Powdered sugar, chocolate drizzle, or whipped cream
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate for the richest flavor in your brownies.
- Avoid overmixing the brownie batter to maintain a fudgy texture.
- For clean slices, chill brownies before cutting and wipe the knife between cuts.
- Want a homemade cherry swirl? Simmer fresh cherries with sugar and a splash of lemon juice for a fresher taste.
- Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of espresso powder to the brownie batter.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 brownies
- Calories: ~250 per serving
- Sugar: ~22g
- Sodium: ~120mg
- Fat: ~12g
- Saturated Fat: ~7g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Protein: ~3g
- Cholesterol: ~45g
Keywords: Cherry Cheesecake Brownies, cheesecake swirl brownies, chocolate cherry brownies
FAQs – About Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
How long does homemade cherry cheesecake last?
Homemade cherry cheesecake brownies last up to 5 days when stored properly.
At room temperature: If your kitchen is cool (below 70°F/21°C), these brownies can stay fresh for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
In the refrigerator: Because of the cream cheese layer, refrigeration is recommended. Store them in a sealed container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
In the freezer: If you want to extend shelf life, you can freeze them for up to 3 months (see freezing instructions below).
Tip: Always let the brownies come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Do brownies with cream cheese frosting need to be refrigerated?
Yes! Brownies with cream cheese frosting, cheesecake layers, or dairy-based fillings should always be refrigerated.
Why? Cream cheese is a perishable ingredient and can spoil if left at room temperature for too long.
Storage tip: Place your cheesecake brownies in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
However, if you prefer a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before eating.
Can you freeze cherry cheesecake brownies?
Yes, cherry cheesecake brownies freeze very well if stored properly!
How to Freeze Cherry Cheesecake Brownies:
Let the brownies cool completely before freezing.
Cut them into individual serving-sized squares to make thawing easier.
Wrap each brownie slice tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag to prevent freezer burn.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Thaw Frozen Brownies:
Fridge Method (Best for Texture): Transfer the brownies to the refrigerator overnight to thaw gradually.
Room Temperature Method: Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before eating.
❌ Do not microwave frozen cheesecake brownies – it can make the cream cheese layer too soft and soggy.
Why is cheesecake not suitable for freezing?
While cheesecake can be frozen, its texture can change slightly.
Here’s why some cheesecakes don’t freeze well:
Moisture separation – The water content in the cheesecake can cause it to become slightly grainy when thawed.
Cracking issues – If frozen incorrectly, the cheesecake layer may develop cracks.
Flavor changes – Some dairy ingredients can absorb freezer odors, altering the taste.
🔹 Cherry cheesecake brownies freeze better than regular cheesecake because the brownie base helps maintain structure and texture after thawing.
How do you store and freeze brownies properly?
For Short-Term Storage (1-5 days):
✔ Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature (2 days max) or in the refrigerator (5 days max).
✔ Layer with parchment paper if stacking them to prevent sticking.
✔ Keep away from strong-smelling foods in the fridge (onions, garlic, etc.).
For Long-Term Freezing (Up to 3 Months):
✔ Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap for best freshness.
✔ Store in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
✔ Thaw in the fridge overnight for the best results.
Bonus Storage Tip: Can I reheat cheesecake brownies?
If you prefer a warm brownie, reheat a slice in the microwave for 5-10 seconds (but avoid overheating the cheesecake layer).
For a chilled dessert, serve straight from the fridge for a firmer texture.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are a decadent treat that combines fudgy chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and tart cherries into one unforgettable dessert. Whether you enjoy them fresh, chilled, or frozen, they’re always a hit at any gathering!