Cherry Cheesecake Brownies: A Sweet, Nostalgic Delight

Name: Cherry Cheesecake Brownies: A Sweet, Nostalgic Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup of unsalted butter; 2 cups of granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; 1 cup of all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon of salt; 1 package (8 oz) of cream cheese; 1/2 cup of powdered sugar; 1 cup of cherry pie filling

June 25, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, let me tell you about the joy of baking cherry cheesecake brownies! There’s something so comforting about those warm, fudgy brownies layered with creamy cheesecake and topped with sweet, tart cherries. It’s like a big hug in dessert form! Whenever I make these, I can’t help but smile as the rich aroma fills my kitchen. I remember the first time I brought these to a family gathering; everyone couldn’t get enough of them! The moment you bite into one, you get that delightful combination of flavors—it’s decadence and comfort all in one bite.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. Seriously, if you can melt butter and mix a few ingredients together, you can make these! Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with friends or just enjoying all to yourself on a cozy afternoon. Trust me, once you try these cherry cheesecake brownies, they’ll become a favorite in your household too. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure together!

cherry cheesecake brownies - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 cup of unsalted butter, melted
2 cups of granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 cup of all-purpose flour
1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 package (8 oz) of cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup of powdered sugar
1 cup of cherry pie filling

Now, a little tip for you: using room temperature ingredients, especially the cream cheese, makes a big difference in achieving that smooth, creamy texture you’ll want for the cheesecake layer. If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, feel free to swap in low-fat cream cheese. And if you want to go the extra mile, fresh cherries can be a delightful alternative to the pie filling. Just pit and slice them, and you’re good to go! Happy baking!

How to Prepare Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get our oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial, as it ensures even baking for your brownies. Trust me, nobody likes a brownie that’s baked unevenly! While it’s warming up, you can start gathering your ingredients, so you’re ready to go.

Prepare the Brownie Batter

Now, let’s make that delicious brownie batter! In a large bowl, melt your unsalted butter. You can do this in the microwave or on the stovetop—just be careful not to overheat it! Once melted, stir in the granulated sugar until it’s well combined. Next, crack in those four large eggs and add the teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix it all together thoroughly until everything is nicely blended—this is where the magic begins!

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. This step is super important to make sure there are no lumps in your batter. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until you achieve a smooth and delightful batter. Don’t rush it; a little patience here goes a long way for that perfect texture!

Layering the Brownies

Now it’s time to layer those brownies! Take half of your brownie batter and spread it evenly into a greased baking dish. This will be the base. Next, in another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Spoon this creamy mixture over the brownie layer, making sure to cover it well. Then, add dollops of cherry pie filling on top of the cream cheese—oh, the colors look so lovely together! Finally, spread the remaining brownie batter over the cherries, covering everything up nicely.

Final Touches

Once your layers are all set, it’s time to bake! Pop your dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (or with just a few moist crumbs), you’ll know they’re done! Allow them to cool in the dish before slicing them into squares. I promise, the wait is worth it when you get to enjoy these scrumptious cherry cheesecake brownies!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional information for these delightful cherry cheesecake brownies. Each brownie is estimated to contain around 250 calories, with about 20 grams of sugar. You’ll also find approximately 10 grams of fat, including 6 grams of saturated fat. For those keeping track of protein, each brownie has about 3 grams, along with around 35 grams of carbohydrates. Of course, these numbers can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients you use, like if you opt for low-fat cream cheese or fresh cherries instead of pie filling.

It’s always good to be aware of what’s in your treats, but don’t forget that these brownies are all about indulgence and enjoyment! So, while you savor each mouthful, you can feel good knowing you’ve made something special. Happy baking!

Tips for Success

To ensure your cherry cheesecake brownies turn out absolutely delicious, I’ve got some handy tips that will make the process even smoother. First, remember to use room temperature ingredients, especially the cream cheese. This little trick helps it blend beautifully, giving you that wonderfully smooth texture you want for the cheesecake layer. No one likes lumps in their cheesecake, right?

Next, when you’re mixing the brownie batter, be sure not to overmix once you add the dry ingredients. Just mix until everything is combined and you’ll achieve that perfect fudgy consistency. If you find the batter is a bit thick, don’t worry; that’s just how it should be!

Also, don’t forget to grease your baking dish well to prevent any sticking. I like to use a little butter or non-stick spray to make sure those brownies come out easily after baking. And when it comes time to check for doneness, remember that every oven is a bit different. Start checking at the 30-minute mark, and if the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, you’re golden!

Lastly, if you can, let the brownies cool completely before slicing. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but cooling helps them set up nicely and makes cutting easier. Plus, you can enjoy the rich aromas wafting through your kitchen while you wait. Trust me, it’s worth the patience!

Variations on Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

Now, let’s get creative with these cherry cheesecake brownies! While the classic cherry filling is absolutely fantastic, there are so many fun ways to mix things up. Here are a few delicious ideas to inspire you:

Berry Bliss: Swap out the cherry pie filling for blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries. You can even create a mixed berry topping for a burst of color and flavor that’s sure to impress!
Nutty Delight: Add some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the brownie batter for a lovely crunch. Just be sure to chop them finely so they blend well!
Chocolate Indulgence: For the chocolate lovers, why not mix in some chocolate chips into the brownie batter? The melty chocolate will add an extra layer of richness that’s simply irresistible!
Peanut Butter Swirl: If you’re a fan of peanut butter, try swirling in some creamy or crunchy peanut butter into the cheesecake layer before adding the cherries. It’s a delightful combination that will have everyone coming back for more!
Coconut Cream: For a tropical twist, sprinkle shredded coconut over the cream cheese layer before adding the cherry filling. It adds a lovely texture and a hint of sweetness.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Baking is all about having fun and making the recipe your own. Each variation brings its own unique flavor, and you might just discover a new favorite along the way. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve baked your cherry cheesecake brownies and they’ve cooled, you’ll want to store them properly to keep them fresh and delicious. Simply place the brownies in an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days, which is perfect if you want to enjoy them a little bit at a time. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking them, to prevent sticking!

If you find yourself with a craving for a warm brownie (and who doesn’t?), reheating is super simple! You can pop a brownie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm it up. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too hot and dry out. Alternatively, if you prefer using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the brownies on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. The oven method gives a lovely texture back to the brownies!

Whether you enjoy them cold from the fridge or warm from the oven, these brownies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth any time of day. Happy indulging!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy preparation—perfect for bakers of all skill levels!
Delicious blend of fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake, and sweet cherries.
Great for sharing with family and friends; everyone will ask for seconds!
Comforting flavors that evoke warm memories and smiles.
Versatile recipe—easily customizable with your favorite fruits or nuts.
Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in.
Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Leftovers can be stored for a few days—if they last that long!

FAQ Section

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. It works like a charm and you’ll still get that delicious brownie texture!

What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or even a thick cashew cream. Both will give you that creamy texture without the dairy!

How do I store leftover brownies?
Simply place your cooled brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking them, so they don’t stick together!

Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, you can! Wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

What if I don’t have cherry pie filling?
No worries! You can use fresh cherries, blueberries, or even a different fruit filling. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on the fruit’s sweetness. It’ll be a fun twist on the classic!

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Definitely! These brownies are perfect for making a day ahead. Just store them as mentioned above, and they actually get even better as they sit for a little while!

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
You’ll want to check them around the 30-minute mark. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re good to go! Remember, they’ll continue to set as they cool.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.