Description
These Irresistibly Rich Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies combine the fudgy decadence of classic chocolate brownies with a creamy cheesecake layer and luscious caramel swirls. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser featuring a delightful marbled effect and a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup additional sugar
- 1 large additional egg
- 1 teaspoon additional vanilla extract
Caramel Sauce
- 12 oz caramel candies
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the brownies do not stick.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and 1 cup of sugar, mixing until fully blended. Whisk in 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt until there are no dry streaks left, forming a smooth brownie batter.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and smooth with no lumps.
- Layer the Brownie and Cheesecake: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly into a smooth layer. Spoon the cheesecake batter carefully on top of the brownie layer, spreading it gently but evenly.
- Make Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the caramel candies together with 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir constantly until the caramel is completely smooth and combined with the cream.
- Drizzle Caramel and Add Remaining Batter: Drizzle the warm caramel sauce evenly over the cheesecake layer. Then spoon the remaining brownie batter over the caramel, using a knife or skewer to gently swirl the layers together to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the edges are set and the center is still slightly soft but not liquid. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool: Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Then transfer the brownies to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting to serve.
Notes
- Use softened cream cheese at room temperature to ensure a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
- For easier swirl effects, let the caramel sauce cool slightly so it thickens before drizzling.
- Brownies are best served at room temperature or chilled for cleaner slices.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For a nutty variation, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: brownies, cheesecake brownies, caramel brownies, Milky Way inspired, chocolate dessert, caramel cheesecake, rich brownies
