These Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl are a decadent treat that blends the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the creamy tang of cheesecake. Swirls of cheesecake filling are baked into the brownie batter, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Topped with optional chocolate chips, these brownies are the ultimate indulgence for dessert lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These brownies offer the best of both worlds: a dense, chocolatey brownie layer combined with a smooth and tangy cheesecake layer. The contrast between the two textures is simply irresistible. The creamy cheesecake swirl adds a luxurious feel, while the mini chocolate chips provide bursts of sweetness in every bite. Whether you serve them for a special occasion or just because, these brownies are sure to impress! Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl

Ingredients

For the Brownie Layer:

1 cup salted butter (227g)
2½ cups granulated sugar (500g)
2 tablespoons canola oil (or vegetable oil)
5 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
¾ cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (116g)
¾ cup + 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (80g)
¾ teaspoon salt
½ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Cheesecake Layer:

16 oz cream cheese (452g), softened to room temperature
1 large egg, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
½ cup granulated sugar (100g)

For the Topping (Optional):

¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:

Place an 8×8-inch baking dish filled with 1 inch of water on the lower oven rack. This step is optional but helps with even baking.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9×13-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

2. Make the Brownie Batter:

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the sugar until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Stir in the oil and vanilla extract until well combined.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the bowl and stir until mostly combined.
Fold in the mini chocolate chips.

3. Make the Cheesecake Layer:

In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, egg, vanilla paste, and sugar until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Brownies:

Pour ⅔ of the brownie batter into the prepared pan.
Dollop half of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter.
Add the remaining brownie batter on top and spread evenly.
Dollop the remaining cheesecake mixture on top of the brownie layer.
Use a butter knife to gently swirl the batters together, creating a marbled effect.

5. Add Optional Topping:

If desired, sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the top of the brownies for extra richness.

6. Bake:

Bake for 45–50 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even baking.
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not raw batter.

7. Cool and Serve:

Let the brownies cool completely for 2–3 hours before slicing.
For cleaner cuts, chill them in the fridge for an additional hour before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Cooling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 3 hours
Servings: 24 brownies

Variations

Add Nuts: Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a bit of crunch and extra flavor.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some caramel sauce on top of the cheesecake layer before baking for a sweet, gooey twist.
Fruity Twist: Add fresh berries (like raspberries or strawberries) on top of the batter before swirling for a fruity contrast.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–4 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 1 week.
Reheating: Warm the brownies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a soft, fudgy texture or enjoy them cold.

FAQs

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these brownies ahead of time. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Can I use a different type of chocolate in the brownie batter?

Yes, you can use dark chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, or even white chocolate chips, depending on your preference.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

To make these brownies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, these brownies freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

While you can use low-fat cream cheese, the texture and flavor might not be as rich. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best results.

Can I skip the chocolate chips in the brownie layer?

If you prefer, you can skip the mini chocolate chips, but they add extra flavor and texture that complements the cheesecake swirl.

How do I get the perfect swirl?

To get the perfect swirl, don’t over-mix the batters. Just gently swirl the cheesecake and brownie batters together with a butter knife to create a marbled effect.

Can I use a different pan size?

If you use a different size pan, keep in mind that baking times may vary. If you use a smaller pan, the brownies may need a bit more time to cook, and if you use a larger pan, they may cook faster.

What’s the best way to serve these brownies?

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Why do I need the water bath in the oven?

The water bath helps maintain even heat in the oven, ensuring the brownies bake evenly without drying out.

Conclusion

These Brownies with Cream Cheese Swirl are a perfect combination of fudgy, chocolaty goodness and creamy, tangy cheesecake. With a swirl of rich cream cheese and a topping of chocolate chips, they’re a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth, these brownies will quickly become a favorite dessert in your repertoire. Enjoy them with friends and family or savor them all on your own!