Cheesecake Brownie Bars
Cheesecake Brownie Bars are the ultimate indulgent treat, combining two classic desserts into one irresistible bite. These bars feature a rich, fudgy brownie base layered with a creamy, tangy cheesecake topping, creating a perfect harmony of chocolate and cream. The brownie layer provides a dense, chocolatey foundation, while the cheesecake adds a smooth and velvety contrast. Swirls of the two layers create a marbled effect, making these bars as visually appealing as they are delicious. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, Cheesecake Brownie Bars are a decadent dessert that will delight any crowd.
Difficulty: EASY
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Serving Size: 32 bars
For The Cheesecake
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 8 - ounce packages 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- In large bowl, whisk cornstarch and sugar until blended.
- Add cream cheese, and beat until smooth. Beat in eggs, sour cream and milk.
- Stir in vanilla; set aside
For The Brownie
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 5 1 - ounce squares unsweetened chocolate
- 1 3/4 cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 12 - ounce bag bittersweet chocolate chips
Directions:
- In large microwave-safe bowl, combine butter and chocolate. Microwave for 1 minute, 30 seconds.
- Stir. If necessary, continue heating in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until chocolate is melted.
- Whisk in sugar, then eggs. Whisk in flour, baking powder and salt until smooth.
- Stir in vanilla and chocolate chips. Spread evenly into prepared pan. Pour cream cheese mixture over brownie mixture. Spread gently until smooth.
- Bake at 350 degrees F for 1 hour and 5 minutes or until center is set. Cool on wire rack to room temperature, about 2 hours. Transfer to refrigerator and continue to cool 2 hours.
For The Topping
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons strawberry jelly
- 1 12 - ounce package strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/4 cup hot fudge sauce, heated
- 1 8 - ounce container frozen whipped topping, thawed
- Chopped hazelnuts, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Heat jelly in microwave-safe bowl for 15 seconds. Stir in berries. Heat fudge sauce in a glass cup in microwave for 25 seconds, until drizzling consistency.
- Cut cheesecake brownie into 32 squares. Dollop each square with about 1 tablespoon whipped topping, then some of the strawberries and fudge topping. Sprinkle with nuts, if desired.