Description
Delight in these rich and decadent Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies featuring a luscious cream cheese swirl and vibrant blackberry preserves for a fruity twist. Perfectly fudgy with a creamy cheesecake layer and sweet berry compote marbling, these brownies offer an irresistible combination of chocolate and fruit that’s ideal for dessert or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit Swirl
- 1/2 cup blackberry preserves or blackberry compote
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Then, gently fold in the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, and salt just until combined to form the brownie batter without overmixing.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg yolk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is fully combined and has a creamy texture.
- Layer the Brownie Batter: Spread most of the prepared brownie batter evenly into the lined baking pan, reserving about 1/4 cup of batter for later use in the swirling process.
- Add Cheesecake Layer: Gently spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter layer in the pan, taking care not to mix the two layers too much.
- Top with Blackberry Preserves and Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of the blackberry preserves on top of the cheesecake layer. Next, dollop the reserved brownie batter on top in between the preserves. Use a knife or skewer to carefully swirl the layers together, creating an attractive marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated 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 attached—avoid overbaking for fudgy brownies.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into 9 squares. This helps the layers set properly for neat slices.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh blackberry compote or jam instead of preserves for a fresher fruit flavor.
- For a more pronounced fruity taste, gently swirl in extra blackberry preserves just before baking.
- Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free cheesecake layer.
- Be careful not to overbake to maintain fudgy texture; check with a toothpick starting at 35 minutes.
