If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the rich, chocolatey goodness of fudge brownies with the creamy tang of cheesecake and the fresh, fruity burst of strawberries, this Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is going to become your next kitchen obsession. It’s that perfect balance of decadent and refreshing, with swirls of creamy cheese and vibrant strawberry preserves weaving through moist, fudgy brownie layers. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, these brownies are irresistibly good and surprisingly simple to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need to make these Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe magic happen are a handful of simple ingredients that work beautifully together, delivering a treat that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with strawberry flavor.
- Fudge brownie mix (1 box, 18.3 oz): The base for your rich, moist chocolatey layer—quick and foolproof.
- Eggs (2 large, plus 1 large separate): Eggs bind and enrich both the brownie and cheesecake layers, adding structure and tenderness.
- Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and helps create fudgy brownies.
- Water (1/4 cup): Needed to properly mix the brownie batter for the perfect texture.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Gives the cheesecake layer its signature smooth, creamy tang.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake layer without overpowering it.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds depth and warmth to the cheesecake flavor.
- Strawberry preserves or jam (1/2 cup): Infuses a vibrant fruity swirl throughout the brownies.
- Fresh strawberries (1/2 cup, chopped, optional): For added texture and a burst of natural freshness on top.
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later. Mix your boxed brownie batter according to the package instructions—it’s generally eggs, oil, and water—until everything is perfectly combined and smooth. Pour this chocolaty goodness into your pan and spread it evenly with a spatula, creating a luscious foundation for your cheesecake and strawberry layers.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Mixture
In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until it’s silky and lump-free. Add in one large egg and vanilla extract, then whip again until your cheesecake layer is smooth, creamy, and heavenly. This mixture will give your brownies that irresistible creamy texture and tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate.
Step 3: Layer and Swirl
Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture in uneven patches onto the brownie batter in the pan. Next, gently swirl the cream cheese into the brownie layer using a knife or toothpick; this creates the signature marbled look you want in these brownies. Warm your strawberry preserves slightly—just enough to make it easier to spoon and swirl—and drop small spoonfuls over the surface. Use your knife to swirl the preserves into the cheesecake and brownie layers, creating those irresistible strawberry ribbons.
Step 4: Add Fresh Strawberries and Bake
If you’re using fresh strawberries, sprinkle them over the top now for a punch of juicy sweetness and lovely bursts of texture. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for the cheesecake to just set—test with a toothpick, which should come out with a few moist crumbs still clinging to it. Avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy and moist.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Now comes the hardest part—waiting. Let your brownies cool completely in the pan so the layers set perfectly. For firmer brownies and cleaner slices, refrigerate them before cutting into squares. Enjoy the anticipation of sinking your teeth into these luscious Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies!
How to Serve Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar over the brownies adds a pretty, sweet touch. You can also add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of white chocolate to elevate their elegance. If you’re feeling fancy, a few whole fresh strawberries on the side give a vibrant, fresh contrast to each slice.
Side Dishes
These brownies are wonderfully satisfying on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple fresh fruit salad can turn your dessert into a complete treat. A cup of hot coffee or tea also complements the rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut the Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe into bite-sized squares and serve on a pretty platter. Layer them in a trifle with whipped cream and more strawberry preserves for a show-stopping dessert that’s easy to share. You can even crumble some up and use as a topping for yogurt or ice cream for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese layer fresh and creamy. Properly stored, they’ll stay delicious for up to 4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies for longer storage by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying. Just keep in mind that fresh strawberries on top don’t freeze as well, so consider adding fresh fruit after thawing.
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies a bit warm, gently microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds or pop them in a low oven (around 300 degrees F) for 5 minutes. This softens the cheesecake and intensifies the flavors without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade fudge brownie recipe, it works wonderfully here. Just make sure the batter is thick enough to hold the cheesecake and strawberry layers without blending together too much.
Are these brownies very sweet?
They do have a good sweetness level thanks to the sugar in the cheesecake layer and the strawberry preserves, but the chocolate brownie base balances the flavors so they never feel cloying. You can adjust the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
Can I substitute other fruit preserves?
Yes! Raspberry or blueberry preserves make fantastic alternatives if you want to change things up. Each gives a slightly different fruity note but keeps the same luscious texture and visual appeal.
Why do I need to chill the brownies before slicing?
Chilling firm ups the cheesecake layer and makes slicing cleaner and easier, helping you get those perfect squares without the layers blending too much or the cheesecake sticking to the knife.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
It’s a bit tricky because cream cheese is central to the recipe’s texture and flavor, but you could try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Keep in mind it may slightly change the taste and consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe is truly a star dessert, blending so many wonderful textures and flavors into a treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, these brownies are straightforward, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear—your friends and family will be begging for the secret!
Print
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these luscious Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies, combining rich fudge brownie layers with a creamy swirled cheesecake topping and bursts of fresh strawberry flavor. Perfectly balanced between fudgy and fruity, this dessert is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 box (18.3 oz) fudge brownie mix
- 2 large eggs (as per brownie mix instructions)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (as per brownie mix instructions)
- 1/4 cup water (as per brownie mix instructions)
Cheesecake Swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Strawberry Topping
- 1/2 cup strawberry preserves or jam
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh strawberries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal of the brownies.
- Make Brownie Batter: Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions, combining the brownie mix with eggs, oil, and water as directed. Once mixed thoroughly, pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface evenly.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Add Cheesecake Swirl: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the cheesecake mixture into the brownie base to create a marbled effect.
- Incorporate Strawberry Flavor: Slightly warm the strawberry preserves to make them easier to spoon and drop small spoonfuls over the top of the swirled batter. Swirl these into the batter gently as well. Optionally, scatter chopped fresh strawberries on top for extra texture and fresh flavor.
- Bake the Brownies: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs, indicating moist but fully cooked brownies.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. For firmer texture and easier slicing, refrigerate the brownies before cutting into 9 squares.
Notes
- You can substitute the strawberry preserves with raspberry or blueberry preserves for a different fruity twist.
- Chilling the brownies before slicing results in cleaner, neater cuts.
