Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Sweet Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe: Fudgy Fusion Magic

Sweet strawberry cheesecake brownies combine decadent chocolate with creamy, fruity layers that dance across your palate.

Chocolate lovers find pure bliss in this delightful dessert mashup.

Swirls of vibrant pink contrast against rich, dark brownie bases.

Silky cream cheese melts into fudgy chocolate with each delectable bite.

Unexpected flavor combinations make this treat a showstopper at any gathering.

Bold yet elegant, these brownies promise a memorable culinary adventure.

Prepare to wow everyone with this irresistible, eye-catching dessert that begs for a second slice.

Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies—Layers of Sweetness

  • Bake Like a Pro: This recipe guides even novice bakers through each delicious step with clear, foolproof instructions that guarantee a stunning dessert every single time.
  • Create Stunning Layers: Combining rich brownie, creamy cheesecake, and sweet strawberry swirls delivers a show-stopping treat that looks professionally crafted but is simple to make at home.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap strawberry jam for other fruit preserves or add fresh berries on top to personalize this decadent dessert and make it uniquely yours.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or casual celebrations, these brownies offer a crowd-pleasing blend of chocolate, fruit, and creamy textures that everyone will adore.

Ingredients for Brownies With Graham Cracker Bottoms

Crust Base:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic cookie base that provides a delightful crunch and sweet foundation for the brownies.
  • Butter: Helps bind the graham cracker crumbs and creates a rich, golden crust.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the crust become slightly crisp.
Brownie Layer:
  • Butter: Contributes to the rich and moist texture of the brownies.
  • Chocolate: Provides deep, intense chocolate flavor and creates a fudgy consistency.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the brownie layer and helps with caramelization.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide structure to the brownie base.
  • Vanilla: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the brownies.
  • Flour: Creates the basic structure of the brownie layer.
  • Cocoa Powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and dark color.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate taste.
Cheesecake Layer:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth, creamy texture for the cheesecake layer.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake mixture.
  • Egg: Helps set the cheesecake layer and provides structure.
  • Vanilla: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor to the cheesecake.
  • Strawberry Jam: Adds fruity flavor and creates a beautiful swirl pattern.
  • Fresh Strawberries: Optional topping that adds freshness and visual appeal.

How to Assemble Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a toasty 350F (175C).

Grab an 8×8-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper, giving it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create the Crunchy Base

Mix graham cracker crumbs with:
  • Melted butter
  • Sugar

Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

Pop it in the oven for 8-10 minutes until it looks slightly golden.

Let it cool down completely.

Step 3: Craft the Decadent Brownie Layer

Melt chocolate and butter together in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to prevent burning.

Stir in sugar, then whisk in eggs one at a time.

Gently fold in:
  • Flour
  • Cocoa powder
  • Salt

Spread this rich chocolatey mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust.

Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Cheesecake Topping

Beat cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add an egg and vanilla, mixing until smooth.

Dollop strawberry jam across the top and create beautiful swirls with a knife.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Optional: Scatter fresh strawberry slices on top.

Bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is just set.

The edges should look slightly firm while the middle has a gentle jiggle.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Let the brownies cool completely at room temperature.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to help them set.

Use the parchment paper to lift the entire batch out, slice into squares, and sprinkle with extra graham cracker crumbs if you’re feeling fancy.

Top Tips for a Perfect Graham Cracker Crust

  • Press graham cracker mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to create a solid, compact base that won't crumble when cutting brownies.
  • Use low microwave power and stir frequently to prevent chocolate from burning, ensuring smooth and glossy brownie batter.
  • Use the tip of a knife to create beautiful, random strawberry swirls in the cheesecake layer without overmixing.
  • Let brownies cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation and maintain the perfect texture.
  • Select ripe, sweet strawberries for topping to enhance the natural fruity flavor and add a vibrant visual appeal to the dessert.

Ideas for Changing Up Your Cheesecake Brownie Layers

  • Gluten-Free Brownie Bliss: Replace graham crackers with gluten-free cookie crumbs and use gluten-free flour blend for the brownie layer, perfect for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Strawberry Swirl Squares: Swap cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use flax eggs, coconut oil instead of butter, and organic plant-based chocolate for a dairy-free version.
  • Low-Sugar Berry Decadence: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener, use sugar-free strawberry preserves, and incorporate almond flour to reduce overall carbohydrate content.
  • Dairy-Free Chocolate Dream: Use coconut cream cheese alternative, replace butter with coconut oil, and incorporate almond milk chocolate for a rich, creamy texture without dairy.

Serving Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies for Dessert

  • Sweet Strawberry Surprise: Top each brownie slice with a fresh, whole strawberry for a burst of color and extra fruity flavor.
  • Creamy Decadence Delight: Dollop a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream next to the brownie to complement the rich chocolate and tangy cheesecake layers.
  • Elegant Dessert Plating: Dust the plate with powdered sugar and drizzle melted white chocolate in a zigzag pattern before placing the brownie slice for a professional restaurant-style presentation.
  • Garnish Glamour: Sprinkle crushed graham crackers and tiny chocolate shavings around the brownie to add texture and enhance the visual appeal of the dessert.

Storage Advice for Brownies With Creamy Toppings

  • Seal leftover brownies in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months without losing texture or flavor.
  • Transfer frozen brownies to the refrigerator overnight for gradual, even defrosting. Allow them to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of berry for this recipe?

Yes, you can swap strawberry jam with raspberry, blueberry, or blackberry jam to create different flavor variations of these brownies.

  • How do I prevent my cheesecake layer from cracking?

Beat cream cheese at room temperature and avoid overmixing. Also, don’t overbake the brownies, as this can cause cracking in the cheesecake layer.

  • Is it necessary to use parchment paper?

Parchment paper helps easily remove the brownies from the pan and ensures clean, neat slices. If you don’t have parchment, generously grease the pan with butter or cooking spray.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Sinful chocolate meets creamy cheesecake in these irresistible Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies, where rich fudge layers dance with tangy strawberry swirls. Indulgent dessert perfection awaits when chocolate lovers unite for a slice of pure bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Brownie Base:

  • 8 oz (226 grams) semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cheesecake and Topping Layer:

  • 8 oz (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup strawberry jam (or fresh puree)
  • 1/4 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (optional)
  • Extra graham cracker crumbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper and applying a light grease coating.
  2. Create the graham cracker base by mixing crumbs with melted butter and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish, then bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Allow the crust to cool completely.
  3. Melt chocolate and butter together in the microwave, stirring at 30-second intervals until smooth. Incorporate sugar, then whisk in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Gently fold in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined.
  4. Spread the brownie batter evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust, creating a uniform layer.
  5. Prepare the cheesecake topping by beating cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy. Blend in egg and vanilla extract until well incorporated.
  6. Carefully dollop the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer, then add scattered spoonfuls of strawberry jam on top.
  7. Use a knife to create gentle swirls, marbling the strawberry jam and cheesecake mixture across the surface.
  8. Optionally, arrange fresh strawberry slices on top of the swirled layer for additional decoration.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and edges are slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan.
  10. Remove from oven and let cool completely at room temperature for approximately 1 hour.
  11. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to firm up and flavors to meld together.
  12. Lift the dessert out using the parchment paper, slice into squares, and garnish with additional graham cracker crumbs if desired.

Notes

  • Crush graham crackers finely for a smooth, compact base that holds together perfectly without crumbling.
  • Melt chocolate and butter slowly to prevent burning, ensuring a silky smooth brownie texture that’s rich and decadent.
  • Use a toothpick or thin knife to create beautiful, intricate swirls in the cheesecake layer for a stunning visual presentation.
  • Let ingredients like cream cheese and eggs come to room temperature before mixing to achieve a smoother, lump-free cheesecake layer.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 215 kcal
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 70 mg
  • Fat: 13 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 24 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 3.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star