Super Bowl Desserts Brownie Cheesecake Squares
Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Inspiration
I love making these Super Bowl Desserts Brownie Cheesecake Squares because they combine the rich chocolate of brownie and the creamy tang of cheesecake in one delicious bite. Each square is not only indulgent but also easy to prepare, making them perfect for game day gatherings. The crowd goes wild for these treats, and they disappear quickly! Trust me, when these squares hit the table, everyone will be asking for the recipe.
When I first whipped up these brownie cheesecake squares, I was blown away by how effortless they were to make yet so luxurious in flavor. Layering the brownie batter with creamy cheesecake creates a stunning visual and palate experience. I recommend using high-quality chocolate for richer flavor—it really makes a difference!
As an added tip, let these squares refrigerate for a few hours before serving. It helps the flavors meld beautifully and allows for cleaner cuts. I've found that serving them cold makes the texture even more delightful. They’re truly the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any Super Bowl party!
Why You Will Love These Squares
- Decadent layers of brownie and cheesecake create harmony in every bite.
- Easy to make ahead of the big game, saving you time and stress.
- Perfectly portioned squares are ideal for sharing with friends.
Understanding the Layers
The beauty of these Brownie Cheesecake Squares lies in their distinct layers. The brownie layer provides a rich, fudgy base that contrasts beautifully with the light and creamy cheesecake layer. Each bite offers a decadent explosion of flavors - the deep chocolate notes from the brownie complement the tangy sweetness of the cheesecake. To achieve the best texture, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free batter.
Swirling the remaining brownie batter into the cheesecake is not only visually appealing but also enhances the flavor profile. As you do this, take care not to over-mix; a few gentle folds will create beautiful marbled patterns that add to the eye-appeal without losing the separation of flavors that makes each layer special.
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your brownie cheesecake squares bake evenly, it's essential to preheat your oven fully to 350°F (175°C) before starting. This temperature allows the brownies to rise appropriately and the cheesecake to set nicely without cracking. Consider placing an oven thermometer inside, as this can help verify your oven's accuracy.
When pouring the brownie mixture into the baking pan, use a spatula to smooth it out evenly. Once you've added the cheesecake layer, tapping the pan gently on the counter helps eliminate any air bubbles, which can result in an uneven texture. Additionally, check for doneness around the 25-minute mark by looking for set edges and a slightly wobbly center, as this will firm up while cooling.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
After cooling, it's best to refrigerate the squares for at least 2 hours before cutting. This chilling time allows the layers to firm up, making them easier to slice into clean squares. For the ultimate presentation at your Super Bowl gathering, consider garnishing each square with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
These squares can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy game days. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you're looking to make them even earlier, these squares freeze well; simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious brownie cheesecake squares:
Brownie Layer
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Once you have these ingredients ready, you're all set to create the squares!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Super Bowl Desserts Brownie Cheesecake Squares:
Prepare the Brownie Mixture
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter and stir in the sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined.
Make the Cheesecake Layer
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, then add the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy.
Combine Layers and Bake
Pour half of the brownie mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan. Spread the cheesecake mixture over it, and dollop the remaining brownie batter on top. Use a knife to swirl the brownie batter into the cheesecake layer. Bake for 30 minutes until set.
Cool and Serve
Allow the squares to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Serve cold at your Super Bowl party!
Enjoy your delicious dessert squares that everyone will love!
Pro Tips
- Make sure to use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in your cheesecake mixture. Additionally, for an added layer of flavor, consider drizzling some chocolate ganache over the top before serving!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you're in need of a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix in the brownie layer. This will maintain the structure without compromising on flavor. Alternatively, for a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use dairy-free butter for the brownie layer.
For those who prefer a less sugary option, consider reducing the granulated sugar in the brownie layer by half; the natural sweetness of the cheesecake layer will balance it out beautifully. Additionally, using unsweetened cocoa powder can also help control the sweetness level and deepen the chocolatey flavor.
Variations and Flavor Additions
To add a twist to this classic recipe, consider incorporating mint or espresso flavors. A teaspoon of peppermint extract can be mixed into the cheesecake layer for a refreshing touch, while instant coffee powder can intensify the chocolate flavor of the brownie base. Just be mindful of the quantities to keep the balance of flavors.
Fruit toppings can also elevate these squares! Before serving, a layer of fresh berries on top adds a pop of color and freshness. Raspberries or strawberries are excellent choices to contrast with the richness of the brownie and cheesecake, making each bite even more delish.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your cheesecake layer cracks during baking, it may have cooked too long or could benefit from a water bath technique. To create a moisture-rich environment, place your baking pan inside a larger pan filled with hot water, which will help prevent overcooking the cheesecake layer.
If you find the brownies are too dry, this might be due to overmixing the batter or baking for too long. To combat this, ensure you mix just until combined and start checking for doneness a few minutes early. Remember that a slight wobble in the center is a sign that they are perfectly cooked and will firm up as they cool.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different types of chocolate for the brownie layer?
Yes! You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate, depending on your preference.
→ How long can I store these squares?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or you can freeze them for up to three months.
→ Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free version.
→ Can I make these squares ahead of time?
Certainly! These brownie cheesecake squares can be made a day or two in advance, making them a perfect make-ahead dessert.
Super Bowl Desserts Brownie Cheesecake Squares
I love making these Super Bowl Desserts Brownie Cheesecake Squares because they combine the rich chocolate of brownie and the creamy tang of cheesecake in one delicious bite. Each square is not only indulgent but also easy to prepare, making them perfect for game day gatherings. The crowd goes wild for these treats, and they disappear quickly! Trust me, when these squares hit the table, everyone will be asking for the recipe.
Created by: Honoria Blake
Recipe Type: Favorite Baking Inspiration
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 16 squares
What You'll Need
Brownie Layer
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter and stir in the sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined.
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, then add the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy.
Pour half of the brownie mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan. Spread the cheesecake mixture over it, and dollop the remaining brownie batter on top. Use a knife to swirl the brownie batter into the cheesecake layer. Bake for 30 minutes until set.
Allow the squares to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares. Serve cold at your Super Bowl party!
Extra Tips
- Make sure to use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in your cheesecake mixture. Additionally, for an added layer of flavor, consider drizzling some chocolate ganache over the top before serving!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g