Introduction
Indulge in the luxurious layers of this delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Brownie! Perfectly combining the rich and fudgy brownie with a creamy cheesecake crown adorned with fresh, juicy strawberries, this dessert is destined to become your go-to for celebrating love, whether for Valentine’s Day or simply to treat yourself and your loved ones. Let the delightful aroma fill your kitchen as you bake, and soon you’ll be slicing into a treat that’s as beautiful as it is scrumptiously satisfying.
Ingredients
- For the Brownie Layer:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- For Topping:
- Additional sliced strawberries
- Powdered sugar (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Yield: 16 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to keep your brownies from sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely aromatic flavor.
- Gradually sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Pour the rich brownie batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a luscious base.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until creamy and dreamy.
- Add the egg and vanilla to the cream cheese mixture, blending until smooth and well combined.
- Gently fold in the diced strawberries, allowing their freshness to brighten up the cheesecake filling.
- Pour the strawberry cheesecake batter over the brownie layer, spreading it evenly for maximum deliciousness.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Once baked, allow your creation to cool completely in the pan before slicing it into beautiful squares.
- For that extra special touch, top each square with additional sliced strawberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, if desired.
Notes or Tips
For a more decadent twist, consider swirling a bit of strawberry jam into the cheesecake layer before baking. This adds a delightful burst of flavor and a lovely marbled effect. Also, serving these brownies with a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert to a whole new level of indulgence!
Cooking Techniques
When preparing this Strawberry Cheesecake Brownie, take care not to overmix the brownie batter after adding the flour and cocoa powder. This helps maintain a fudgy texture that will melt in your mouth. Additionally, folding in the strawberries gently ensures they remain intact, providing juicy pockets of flavor with every bite.
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to remove excess moisture.
How should I store the brownies?
Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage—just thaw in the refrigerator before serving!
Conclusion
This Strawberry Cheesecake Brownie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will surely impress anyone who gets a taste. With chocolatey brownie goodness paired with creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberries, it’s hard not to fall in love at first bite. Whether for a special occasion or a delightful afternoon treat, these brownies are sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy every decadent piece!