If you love rich desserts that bring together the best of brownie, cheesecake, and cherry flavors, you are going to adore this Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe. Imagine fudgy brownie layers intertwined with velvety cream cheese and vibrant cherry pie filling, all topped with melty chocolate chips. This dessert is like a party in your mouth where each bite reveals a decadent harmony of textures and tastes. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, these bars are sure to become a go-to recipe everyone asks for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each playing a key role in creating the perfect balance of chocolaty richness, creamy smoothness, and fruity brightness in the bars.
- Fudge brownie mix (18 oz box): The foundational layer providing that classic, fudgy chocolate intensity.
- Oil, eggs, and water (as per brownie mix instructions): These keep your brownie moist and tender.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The heart of the cheesecake layer, offering a luscious, smooth texture.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the cream cheese filling perfectly.
- Egg (1): Binds the cheesecake mixture giving it structure.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake layer.
- Cherry pie filling (1 cup): Brings a burst of tangy sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Adds melty chocolate goodness on top to finish the bars with flair.
How to Make Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×9-inch baking pan or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal. Mix the brownie batter according to the box instructions, then pour about two-thirds of it into your pan, spreading it evenly to form a luscious chocolate base ready to support the creamy layers.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer
In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, sugar, one egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is irresistibly smooth and creamy. This layer will add a lovely tangy contrast and balance out the rich chocolate flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Gently spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie base to create a luscious middle layer. Then, evenly spoon the cherry pie filling on top — these juicy cherries will bring brightness and moisture. Next, dollop the remaining brownie batter on top and swirl it lightly with a knife for a stunning marbled effect that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Step 4: Add Your Final Touch
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips generously over the top for a decadent finish. These little nuggets will melt during baking, adding bursts of chocolate in every bite.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center firms up with only a few moist crumbs on a toothpick. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan — for the best texture, chilling them for at least an hour before slicing is highly recommended.
How to Serve Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh cherries on top can elevate the bars visually and add a hint of sweetness and freshness. For a little extra indulgence, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream pairs perfectly with the rich layers.
Side Dishes
Serve these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a simple cup of coffee or tea. The creamy, cold ice cream contrasts exquisitely with the dense, chewy texture of the bars, creating a truly satisfying dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the bars into bite-sized squares and serving them on a dessert platter with small forks for a party setting. Alternatively, layer pieces in a glass trifle dish with whipped cream and extra cherries to create a dazzling layered dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled helps maintain their texture and flavor, so they taste just as heavenly the next day.
Freezing
These cherry chocolate brownie cheesecake bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to preserve their creamy goodness.
Reheating
If you prefer your bars warm, gently reheat them in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as you want to keep the cheesecake layer creamy and not dry out the edges.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! You can substitute fresh or frozen cherries by cooking them down with a bit of sugar and cornstarch until thickened, creating a lovely, natural cherry layer that is just as delicious.
Do I have to use a boxed brownie mix?
Nope! If you prefer homemade brownies, feel free to use your favorite recipe instead. Just make sure the batter is thick enough to support swirling and layering.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by choosing a gluten-free brownie mix and ensuring your pie filling and other ingredients are gluten-free, you can enjoy these bars without worry.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for a center that is mostly set but still slightly soft, with only a few moist crumbs on a toothpick test. Overbaking can make the cheesecake dry, so err on the side of slightly underbaked for a perfect texture.
Can I swap the chocolate chips for another type of chocolate?
Definitely! White chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even chopped nuts can be used on top to customize the flavor and texture to your liking.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe is a total showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its irresistible layers of chocolate, tangy cream cheese, and juicy cherries, it’s the perfect dessert to brighten up any day. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these bars will not disappoint. Grab your ingredients, dive into this recipe, and prepare for rave reviews!
Print
Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in these decadent Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars, featuring a rich fudge brownie base topped with a creamy cheesecake layer, tangy cherry pie filling, and a swirl of chocolate chips for the perfect marbled dessert bar.
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box (18 oz) fudge brownie mix
- 1/2 cup oil (as per box instructions)
- 2 eggs (as per box instructions)
- 1/4 cup water (as per box instructions)
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 cup cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare Brownie Batter: Mix the brownie batter according to the package directions, combining the brownie mix with oil, eggs, and water as specified.
- Layer Brownie Batter: Pour about two-thirds of the prepared brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly to form the base layer.
- Make Cheesecake Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, 1 egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread Cheesecake Layer: Gently spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan.
- Add Cherry Pie Filling: Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer, distributing it carefully to cover the surface.
- Top with Remaining Brownie Batter: Dollop the remaining brownie batter over the cherry layer. Use a knife to swirl the batter slightly to create a marbled effect.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the top of the swirled batter.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with only a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 squares for serving.
Notes
- For best results, chill the bars for at least 1 hour after cooling to help them firm up and enhance flavor.
- You may substitute fresh or frozen cherries for the pie filling by cooking them down with some sugar and cornstarch until thickened.
- Be careful not to overbake to keep the bars moist and tender.
