Introduction
Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to whip up something sweet and indulgent, and what better treat than Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies? This delightful dessert combines rich and fudgy brownies with a creamy cheesecake layer, all topped off with juicy strawberries. The vibrant colors and luscious flavors make them an ideal dessert for sharing with that special someone or enjoying just because. Let’s dive into this layer of love!
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish, ensuring it’s ready for your luscious brownies.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla until fully combined.
- Next, beat in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until the batter is rich and smooth.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and the vanilla extract, continuing to mix until everything is well combined.
- Gently pour the cheesecake batter over the brownie layer, spreading it carefully to cover the luscious brownie base completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. It’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs.
- While the brownies are baking, prepare the strawberry topping by combining sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice in a bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Once the brownies are finished baking, allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into delightful squares.
- Top each brownie square with a generous spoonful of the strawberry mixture before serving, creating a beautiful and delicious presentation.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of your favorite liqueur to the strawberry topping.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth cheesecake layer.
- These brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but I doubt they’ll last that long!
Cooking Techniques
The key to perfect brownies is not to overmix the batter once you add the flour; mix just until combined to achieve that fudgy texture. Make sure your oven is preheated; this is crucial for even baking. Allowing the brownies to cool completely in the pan helps them set properly, making them easier to slice.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen strawberries for the topping?
Yes! Just thaw them first and drain any excess juice before mixing with sugar and lemon juice. - Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! They keep well in the fridge, so you can make them a day in advance. - What if I don’t have cream cheese?
You can substitute with mascarpone cheese or even ricotta for a different take on the cheesecake layer.
Conclusion
These Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in a sweet moment of self-care. The blend of chocolatey brownies, creamy cheesecake, and fresh strawberries creates an irresistible dessert that will surely make your heart flutter this Valentine’s Day. Enjoy every bite and be prepared for compliments!