Step-by-step instructions
Let’s get into the cooking! Follow these simple steps for a delightful dessert.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, 2 cups of sugar, eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined.
- Spread half of the brownie batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the brownie layer evenly.
- Sprinkle the chopped cherries on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter over the cherries and cream cheese, then gently swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let them cool completely before cutting them into squares.
Best ways to enjoy it
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies can be served in a variety of appetizing ways. For a charming presentation, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Drizzling chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can also elevate your dessert game. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh cherry for that extra touch!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Cherry Cheesecake Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to keep them even longer, they freeze beautifully! Just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they’ll last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and enjoy at room temperature.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your brownies turn out perfect every time:
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t rush the cooling process; this is key to achieving clean cuts and proper texture.
- If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, try adding a bit of espresso powder to the brownie batter.
- Experiment with different types of cherries or even add chunks of chocolate for extra richness.
Creative twists
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your tastes! You can switch up the cherries for raspberries or strawberries for a different berry flavor. If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, try swirls of caramel sauce along with the cream cheese. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare Cherry Cheesecake Brownies?
From start to finish, the preparation and baking times for these brownies will be around 1 hour, with cooling time included.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly in this recipe! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid to prevent making the brownies soggy.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, the brownies are ready to be taken out of the oven.
These Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are bound to become a beloved staple, so grab your ingredients and start baking today!
