Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
If you have a sweet tooth craving a perfect marriage of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and luscious berries, you are in for a treat with these stunning Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies. This dessert combines fudgy, chewy brownies with a smooth cheesecake swirl and tangy blackberry sauce, creating a flavor explosion and a delightful texture contrast you won’t stop raving about. Whether you’re serving them at a cozy gathering or indulging in a special weeknight treat, these brownies are guaranteed to become an instant favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential to creating the magic of Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies. Each component plays a unique role — from the buttery richness and deep cocoa notes in the brownie base to the creamy smoothness of the cheesecake and the bright burst of blackberry sauce on top.
- Fresh or frozen blackberries: They bring natural sweetness and a vibrant color, perfect for the sauce.
- Granulated sugar: Added in stages, it sweetens both the blackberry sauce and the brownie-cheesecake layers.
- Kerrygold Unsalted Butter, diced: Using premium butter enriches the brownie’s flavor and texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: For that intense chocolatey depth that brownies are known for.
- Salt: A small pinch balances the sweetness and boosts all the flavors.
- Vanilla extract (two portions): It layers in warm, aromatic notes essential to dessert perfection.
- Large eggs: Both whole and whites are used to give structure and creaminess respectively to brownie and cheesecake layers.
- All-purpose flour: Just enough to achieve fudgy, chewy brownies without heaviness.
- Cream cheese, softened: The heart of the cheesecake swirl, adding tangy richness and smooth texture.
How to Make Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies
Step 1: Create the Blackberry Sauce
Start by gently simmering fresh or frozen blackberries with a tablespoon of sugar in a small saucepan. Using a wooden spoon, crush the berries lightly as they soften and break down over medium heat for about 10 minutes. This slow cooking releases their juices naturally. Then, push the mixture through a fine sieve to capture smooth, vibrant blackberry sauce while leaving seeds behind. Set this jewel of flavor aside — it will be the star topping later!
Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Base
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine diced butter, sugar, and cocoa powder. Heat this mixture in two bursts of 30 seconds each, stirring in between, until everything melts together luxuriously. Once slightly cooled but still warm, stir in salt and vanilla extract for depth. Then add the whole egg and mix until fully blended. Finally, stir in the flour and beat vigorously for at least 50 strokes — this effort ensures your brownies will have that signature chewy texture everyone loves.
Step 3: Ready Your Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9x5x3-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This clever touch makes lifting out the brownies super easy once baked and cooled.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Pour the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface. Next, whip up the cheesecake layer by beating cream cheese, egg white, sugar, and vanilla until ultra smooth and creamy. Carefully pour this on top of the brownie layer and spread it gently.
Step 5: Add and Swirl the Blackberry Sauce
Drizzle your luscious blackberry sauce over the cheesecake layer. Use a toothpick to swirl the sauce gently into the cheesecake without dragging it down into the brownie base. This creates pretty marbling and ensures each bite has that beautiful balance of sweet and tangy.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45 minutes or until the cheesecake edges turn a delicate golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cheesecake layer comes out mostly clean. The brownies will set beautifully, hugging the creamy cheesecake and tart blackberry notes.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan at room temperature, then refrigerate to firm up and make slicing easier. When ready, lift out by the parchment handles and cut into generous squares that showcase all the layers and swirls.
How to Serve Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies
Garnishes
For a fresh finish, sprinkle extra fresh blackberries or a dusting of powdered sugar over the brownies. A few mint leaves add a refreshing pop of color and aroma, elevating presentation instantly.
Side Dishes
These brownies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. If you want a fruity complement, serve with a small bowl of mixed berries or a tangy berry coulis to echo the blackberry sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice these beauties into mini squares for a bite-sized dessert platter perfect for parties. Layer them in a dessert trifle with extra cheesecake and berries, or serve atop a dessert plate with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent restaurant-style treat right at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled maintains the cheesecake layer’s creamy texture and the brownies’ fudgy chewiness.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies for longer storage by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then enjoy as if freshly baked!
Reheating
If you prefer your brownies slightly warm, gently heat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to prevent the cheesecake layer from becoming too soft or the blackberry sauce from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blackberries in this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen blackberries work perfectly for making the sauce and will provide the same vibrant flavor and gorgeous color as fresh ones.
Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that can be used cup-for-cup. This keeps the brownies chewy and delicious without gluten.
How far in advance can I make Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies?
These brownies actually taste better after chilling for a few hours or even overnight, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Make them a day ahead for best results.
Can I prepare the blackberry sauce in advance?
Definitely! The blackberry sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before using to loosen it up if it thickens.
What’s the best way to get clean slices?
For clean, pretty slices, refrigerate the brownies until firm and use a sharp knife wiped between cuts to avoid dragging the layers.
Final Thoughts
If you are seeking a dessert that brings together the best of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and fresh fruit, these Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies are a must-try. They’re impressive enough for special occasions yet simple enough to enjoy as a sweet everyday treat. Whip up a batch and share the joy of biting into that perfect, fudgy, creamy, fruity combination. You’ll want to make these again and again!
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Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the rich and chewy texture of Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies that combine a fudgy cocoa brownie base with a creamy cheesecake layer swirled with fresh blackberry sauce. This recipe offers a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors, ideal for dessert lovers seeking a unique twist on classic brownies.
Ingredients
Blackberry Sauce
- 3 ounces fresh or frozen blackberries
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Brownie Batter
- 4 tablespoons Kerrygold Unsalted Butter, diced
- 1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Cheesecake Filling
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 large egg white (reserve the yolk for another use)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the blackberry sauce: Add the blackberries and sugar to a small saucepan. Crush lightly with a wooden spoon, then set heat to medium. Cook until the blackberries are soft and falling apart, about 10 minutes. Push the mixture through a sieve to remove seeds, reserving the juice. Set aside.
- Prepare the brownie base: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine the diced butter, sugar, and cocoa powder. Microwave on HIGH for 30 seconds, stir, and microwave for another 30 seconds.
- Cool brownie mixture: Stir gently and let it cool for 3-4 minutes. Add salt and vanilla extract, stirring to combine and further cool the mixture until warm, not hot, to the touch.
- Add egg and flour: Stir in the large egg until fully incorporated. Add the flour and beat vigorously for at least 50 strokes to achieve a chewy texture.
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Heat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a 9x5x3-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, ensuring extra paper overhang for easy removal.
- Spread brownie batter: Evenly spread the brownie mixture in the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Make cheesecake filling: Beat together the softened cream cheese, egg white, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Layer cheesecake and sauce: Pour the cheesecake filling over the brownie base and smooth the surface gently. Drizzle the prepared blackberry sauce over the cheesecake and use a toothpick to swirl the sauce through the cheesecake layer without mixing into the brownie layer.
- Bake: Bake the layered brownies for 45 minutes or until the cheesecake edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cheesecake comes out mostly clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan to room temperature. Refrigerate to make slicing easier, then slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh blackberries in season for the best flavor, frozen blackberries work well out of season.
- Reserve the egg yolk for another recipe like custards or sauces.
- Beating the brownie batter thoroughly develops a chewier texture.
- Swirling the blackberry sauce into the cheesecake layer creates a beautiful marbled effect without mixing into the brownie base.
- Refrigeration before slicing ensures cleaner, more presentable pieces.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie (approx. 1.5 x 3 inches)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies, blackberry dessert, chewy brownies, creamy cheesecake, homemade brownies, fruit swirl dessert
