If you’re looking for a dessert that marries the rich, fudgy depth of brownies with the creamy elegance of cheesecake, these Brownie Cheesecake Bars are about to capture your heart (and taste buds). The decadent layers create a gorgeous contrast of flavors and textures, worthy of any celebration or an afternoon pick-me-up. With a simple ingredient list and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll want to add these bars to your beloved baking repertoire. Prepare for a delicious journey that’s part nostalgia, part irresistible indulgence!

Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Brownie Cheesecake Bars is delightfully straightforward, and each component truly shines in the final result. From the butter and chocolate to the tangy cream cheese, every element adds to the lush texture and unforgettable flavor. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why each item matters:

Unsalted butter: Melted butter is the secret to dense, fudgy brownies and helps everything meld together beautifully.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the brownies and the cheesecake, creating perfectly balanced bars.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides the rich chocolate backbone for the brownie layer.
Salt: Enhances and sharpens all the sweet and chocolatey notes.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth that ties both layers together.
Large eggs: Essential for structure and that luscious, creamy bite in both brownie and cheesecake layers.
All-purpose flour: Gives the brownies just enough structure to be chewy but not cakey.
Chocolate chips (optional): For extra pockets of gooey chocolate; feel free to stir these in for a sweeter touch.
Cream cheese: The star of the cheesecake layer—make sure it’s softened for a smooth, lump-free result.
Sour cream: Adds a gentle tang and satiny texture to the cheesecake swirl.

How to Make Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Layer

Start by melting your butter in the microwave, working in 30-second bursts, and stirring each time. This gentle approach prevents scorching and helps the butter blend seamlessly with sugar for that glossy, fudgy base. In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth—the mixture should look thick and shiny.

Step 2: Add Cocoa, Salt, and Vanilla

Sift in the cocoa powder and salt directly over your bowl. This ensures you won’t have any lumps and that each bite bursts with chocolate flavor. Whisk until the batter’s deep brown and smooth, then stir in the vanilla extract for a cozy aroma.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Flour

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to guarantee a beautifully emulsified batter. Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined—don’t overmix or you’ll sacrifice that perfect brownie texture. Now’s the time to gently stir in chocolate chips if you desire extra chocolate richness.

Step 4: Create the Cheesecake Layer

Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together in a separate bowl until velvety smooth (no lumps!). One at a time, add the eggs, mixing until just combined. Gently stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract to finish the batter—be careful not to overbeat, as this can incorporate too much air and affect the texture of your Brownie Cheesecake Bars.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it (or lining with parchment for easy removal). First, pour in the brownie batter and spread it to the corners. Carefully layer the cheesecake mixture on top, using a spatula for an even spread. For a pretty marbled effect, use a skewer or knife to gently swirl the two batters. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes—the center should still have a tiny jiggle, but the edges will be set.

Step 6: Cool, Chill, and Slice

Let the bars cool completely to room temperature in the pan—this patience makes all the difference in cutting clean, gorgeous bars. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better) to let the flavors mingle and the texture set. When ready to serve, lift the bars out using the parchment (if used), slice into squares, and dust with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or powdered sugar for that little bakery-worthy flourish.

How to Serve Brownie Cheesecake Bars

Garnishes

A finishing touch is never wasted on Brownie Cheesecake Bars. Try dusting them lightly with cocoa powder or powdered sugar, or top each bar with a curl of chocolate or a few berries for a pop of color and freshness. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce never hurt either.

Side Dishes

Serve your bars with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream for a delightful contrast between warm and cool, or pair with seasonal berries for a bright, tangy counterpoint. A small glass of cold milk or a cup of strong coffee will round out the experience perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

These bars shine as the centerpiece of a dessert platter, cut into bite-sized squares for parties or picnics. Stack them in a tall, clear jar for a stunning edible gift, or arrange them on a tiered stand alongside mini tarts and cookies for a homemade dessert buffet.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Brownie Cheesecake Bars should be covered tightly or stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually improve after a day, and they stay fresh for up to 5 days—if they last that long! The chilling also makes for perfectly fudgy, creamy bites every time.

Freezing

These bars freeze beautifully. Simply wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in an airtight freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Reheating

If you love your Brownie Cheesecake Bars just a touch warm, pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the brownie layer slightly and brings out all that luscious chocolatey aroma—just be careful not to overheat, or the cheesecake layer may melt.

FAQs

Can I use boxed brownie mix instead?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, swap the homemade brownie base for your favorite boxed mix. Just follow the instructions for an 8-inch pan, then layer and bake with the cheesecake topping as directed.

Why is my cheesecake layer cracked?

Cracks can happen if the cheesecake layer is overbaked or the oven temperature is too high. Try removing the bars when the center is still slightly wobbly and always cool them gradually. Chilling sets the cheesecake and smooths out minor cracks, so don’t stress!

Can I add other mix-ins or flavors?

Go wild! Swirl in a spoonful of raspberry jam, add chopped nuts to the brownie layer, or try flavoring the cheesecake with citrus zest for a fun twist. Make these Brownie Cheesecake Bars your own signature treat.

How do I get clean slices?

For picture-perfect squares, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. Chill the bars well before slicing so every piece is smooth and bakery-level beautiful.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

You sure can. Simply double all ingredients and use a 9×13 inch pan. Baking time will be slightly longer—start checking the center for doneness after 40 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve had a bite of these rich, creamy Brownie Cheesecake Bars, you’ll understand why they are a go-to crowd-pleaser for bakers everywhere. Each layer brings something special, and together, they’re just magic. Treat yourself (and everyone around you) to a batch soon—these bars always disappear fast!

Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 4 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 3 hours
Yield: 16 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the decadent combination of rich chocolate brownie and creamy cheesecake with these irresistibly delicious Brownie Cheesecake Bars. A perfect treat for any occasion!

Instructions

Melt the butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Mix brownie layer: Whisk melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Sift in cocoa powder and salt. Stir in vanilla extract and eggs. Gradually add flour. Fold in chocolate chips.
Prepare cheesecake layer: Beat cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time. Stir in sour cream and vanilla extract.
Assemble: Preheat oven. Grease and flour an 8×8 inch pan. Pour brownie batter, top with cheesecake batter.
Bake: Create swirls if desired. Bake until set.
Cool and chill: Cool completely, then chill for at least 2 hours.
Serve: Cut into squares and dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar.