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Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Base
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick.
- Spread in the Pan: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
- Mix Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and creamy.
- Spread Cheesecake Mixture: Carefully spoon the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cherry Filling: Drop spoonfuls of the cherry pie filling over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the cherries into the cheesecake slightly, creating a marbled effect.
Step 4: Add the Remaining Brownie Batter
- Top with Brownie Batter: Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake and cherry layer. Use a spatula to spread it gently, being careful not to disturb the layers below.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Cool: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely before slicing.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice and Serve: Cut the brownies into squares and serve them chilled or at room temperature. They are perfect on their own or served with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
Tips for the Perfect Cherry Cheesecake Brownies
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a finishing touch.
- Storage: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just make sure to wrap them well!
- Customizable: If you’re not a fan of cherries, try using other fruit fillings, like raspberry or blueberry, for a delicious twist.
Conclusion
These Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as an after-dinner dessert, these brownies are sure to disappear in no time. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in a slice (or two) of this decadent dessert!
Let me know if you need any adjustments or additional information!