INTRODUCTION
Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, fudgy texture of chocolate brownies with smooth, creamy cheesecake and a burst of berry flavor. This recipe is perfect for those who love dessert and want to impress family and friends. Imagine biting into a layer of chocolaty goodness, only to discover a tangy cheesecake layer and a hint of sweet blackberries.
Making this dessert at home is easier than you might think, and it can bring joy to any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or just a pleasant evening at home, Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies are sure to shine.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will adore these Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies for many reasons. First, they combine two beloved desserts: brownies and cheesecake. This unique pairing creates a mouthwatering blend of flavors and textures.
The sweet blackberries give a burst of freshness, making every bite exciting and delicious. Moreover, this recipe is simple and straightforward. You don’t need to be a professional baker to make these brownies. With just a bit of patience and attention to detail, you will create a dessert that looks and tastes amazing.
Additionally, these brownies are versatile. You can enjoy them warm from the oven or cold from the fridge, making them a fantastic option for a variety of settings. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an even more indulgent experience.
HOW TO MAKE Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies
Here is a simple guide to making Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies. Just follow the steps carefully, and you’ll be on your way to creating a delicious dessert that will impress anyone.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Before you start, gather all your tools and equipment. Here’s what you need:
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Saucepan
- Fine mesh strainer
- 8×8 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
- Knife or toothpick for swirling
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 ounces blackberries, fresh or frozen
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar (for blackberry puree)
- 1/4 cup water
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups sugar (for brownie batter)
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1/4 cup sugar (for cheesecake layer)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for cheesecake layer)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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Make the Blackberry Puree: Start by combining the blackberries, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/4 cup of water in a saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat for about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir gently and break down the blackberries as they cook.
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Strain the Puree: After cooking, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove the seeds. Let the puree cool while you prepare the brownies.
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Make the Brownie Batter: In a mixing bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the 1 1/2 cups of sugar, 2 eggs, vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well until combined.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Fold in the cocoa powder and flour gently. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the brownies fudgy.
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Spread in Pan: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom.
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Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the Greek yogurt, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Beat for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
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Layer the Cheesecake: Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter.
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Add Blackberry Swirls: Take the cooled blackberry puree and dollop it on top of the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl it gently into the cheesecake.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the cheesecake is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
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Cool: Allow the brownies to cool at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This step helps the flavors meld and makes the slices easier to cut.
HOW TO SERVE Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies
Once your Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies are chilled, it’s time to serve them. Use a sharp knife to cut them into squares. You can serve them as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh blackberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can add an extra touch of elegance.
If you want to impress your guests, consider adding a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a fruit coulis around the plate for a beautiful presentation.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies
When storing your Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week when stored properly.
If you want to freeze them, slice the brownies first, then wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They should last for about three months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
These brownies can be served in many ways. Here are some suggestions:
- Warm up the brownies in the microwave for a few seconds before serving, and pair them with vanilla ice cream.
- Top them with whipped cream and a few fresh blackberries for a simple yet elegant look.
- Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
VARIATIONS
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few ideas to make your Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies even more special:
- Berry Swaps: Instead of blackberries, try raspberries or strawberries for a different fruity flavor.
- Nutty Brownies: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for added texture.
- Chocolate Chip Layer: Sprinkle chocolate chips between the brownie and cheesecake layers for added richness.
- Zesty Citrus: Add orange or lemon zest to the cheesecake layer for a refreshing twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen blackberries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen blackberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
2. Is it necessary to refrigerate the brownies before serving?
Yes, refrigerating the brownies helps set the cheesecake layer and makes cutting them into squares much easier.
3. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these brownies.
4. How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The brownies are done when the cheesecake layer is slightly golden and a knife inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. A few moist crumbs are fine, but there should be no wet batter.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies
If you want to prepare ahead of time, you can make the brownie base and cheesecake layer separately. Bake the brownie layer and let it cool. You can prepare the cheesecake mixture and keep it in the refrigerator. When you are ready, spread the cheesecake over the brownie layer and bake just before serving to keep everything fresh.
Enjoy your baking, and have fun making these delightful Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies!
Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies
Ingredients
Method
- Make the Blackberry Puree: Start by combining the blackberries, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/4 cup of water in a saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat for about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir gently and break down the blackberries as they cook.
- Strain the Puree: After cooking, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer to remove the seeds. Let the puree cool while you prepare the brownies.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the 1 1/2 cups of sugar, 2 eggs, vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well until combined.
- Fold in the cocoa powder and flour gently. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the brownies fudgy.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the Greek yogurt, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Beat for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the brownie batter.
- Take the cooled blackberry puree and dollop it on top of the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl it gently into the cheesecake.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the cheesecake is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Allow the brownies to cool at room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to help the flavors meld and make slices easier to cut.