Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Introduction

Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars combine rich, fudgy brownies with creamy cheesecake and tangy cherry swirls for an irresistible dessert. These bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion where you want a decadent treat with a fruity twist.

Ingredients

• 1 box of brownie mix
• 2 eggs (for the brownie mix)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil (for the brownie mix)
• 1/4 cup water (for the brownie mix)
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup cherry pie filling
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Step 2: Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions using the eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
4. Step 4: Carefully spoon the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter and spread gently to the edges of the pan.
5. Step 5: Drop spoonfuls of cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cherries into the cheesecake for a marbled effect.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the mini chocolate chips evenly over the top.
7. Step 7: Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle. Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
8. Step 8: Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh or frozen cherries instead of pie filling for a less sweet, more natural flavor.
• Swap mini chocolate chips for chopped dark chocolate for more intense chocolate flavor.
• To make smaller bars, use a muffin tin and adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.

Storage

Store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving. Reheat chilled bars gently at room temperature or enjoy them straight from the fridge.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a mix?

Yes, you can substitute homemade brownie batter prepared with your favorite recipe. Just make sure the batter is spread evenly before adding the cheesecake layer.

Why does the cheesecake layer have a jiggle after baking?

A slight jiggle in the center means the cheesecake is perfectly baked and will set as it cools. Overbaking can cause cracking or dryness.

Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars Recipe

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Delicious Cherry Chocolate Brownie Cheesecake Bars combine rich fudgy brownie base with a creamy cheesecake layer swirled with cherry pie filling and topped with mini chocolate chips for a decadent dessert perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling time)
• Yield: 12 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Brownie Base

• 1 box brownie mix
• 2 eggs
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup water

Cheesecake Layer

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings

• 1 cup cherry pie filling
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Make brownie batter: Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions by combining the brownie mix, 2 eggs, 1/3 cup vegetable oil, and 1/4 cup water. Mix until smooth.
3. Spread brownie batter: Pour the prepared brownie batter evenly into the greased pan, spreading it carefully to cover the base.
4. Prepare cheesecake mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy with no lumps.
5. Layer cheesecake mixture: Spoon the cheesecake mixture gently over the brownie batter in the pan and spread it evenly to the edges without disturbing the brownie layer underneath.
6. Add cherry swirl: Drop spoonfuls of cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the cherries into the cheesecake batter creating a marbled effect.
7. Add chocolate chips: Evenly sprinkle 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips over the top of the cheesecake and cherry layer.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle when gently shaken.
9. Cool and chill: Remove from the oven and cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Then refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to set fully before cutting.
10. Serve: Cut the chilled bars into squares and serve cold for best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Make sure cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smooth cheesecake layer.
• Use a toothpick or skewer lightly for swirling to avoid mixing the layers completely.
• Chilling the bars is important for clean cutting and optimal texture.
• You can substitute cherry pie filling with fresh cherries if preferred, but adjust sweetness accordingly.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for freshness.

Keywords: brownie cheesecake bars cherry chocolate dessert baked bars cherry swirl chocolate chips