Cheesecake Brownies with Caramel

Instructions

Make the Brownies

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and chopped chocolate, stirring frequently until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Mix Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted chocolate mixture. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract. Add flour and salt; gently fold until just combined. Don’t overmix!
4. Pour into Pan: Pour brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

Make the Cheesecake Layer

1. Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add egg and vanilla extract; mix well.
2. Add Cheesecake Layer: Spoon dollops of cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl, creating a marbled effect.

Bake the Brownies

1. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking!
2. Cool: Let cool completely in the pan before removing and cutting.

Add the Caramel Drizzle

1. Drizzle with Caramel: Once cool, drizzle caramel sauce over the top. A spoon or piping bag works well.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smoother cheesecake layer.
• Use store-bought or homemade caramel sauce.
• Chill the brownies for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Recipe Variations

• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel.
• Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter.
• Chocolate Caramel Swirl: Swirl extra melted chocolate into the cheesecake layer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of chocolate? A: Yes! Dark or milk chocolate will work; dark chocolate will be richer, milk chocolate sweeter.

Q: Can I freeze these brownies? A: Yes! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator.

Q: How do I store these brownies? A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Enjoy these decadent Cheesecake Brownies with Caramel! The perfect combination of flavors in every bite!