Oh, cheesecake brownies—what a delightful fusion of rich chocolatey goodness and creamy cheesecake! I remember the first time I made these for a friend’s birthday party; they were a hit! I was in the kitchen, combining the two beloved desserts, and my friends were hovering around, practically drooling as the aromas filled the air. The contrast of fudgy brownies with that smooth, sweet cheesecake layer was just magical. Plus, there’s something a bit extra special about whipping up a recipe that works for everyone, including those who need to avoid gluten. Let me take you through my favorite gluten-free cheesecake brownie recipe that’s sure to impress your friends and family!
These cheesecake brownies are not only delicious but also wonderfully easy to make. You can have them ready to serve in under an hour, giving you plenty of time to sit back, relax, and enjoy time with your loved ones—or maybe even sneak a few extra bites for yourself!
What’s in Cheesecake Brownies?
Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: This is my go-to for ensuring the brownies are still delectably fudgy without those gluten-filled pesky allergens. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur’s work really well.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds a deep chocolate flavor that will have you craving more. I prefer Dutch-processed cocoa for its rich taste, but regular works fine too!
Granulated Sugar: This is key to achieving that perfect level of sweetness within the brownie base.
Butter: I love using unsalted butter here as it melds beautifully into the batter and gives the brownies their moist consistency.
Eggs: Ah, the magical binding agents! They help keep our brownies together while allowing them to rise just enough.
Cream Cheese: The star of the show in the cheesecake layer! I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for that rich, creamy texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla brings out the flavors beautifully, enhancing both the brownies and the cheesecake.
Chocolate Chips: Optional, but they give the brownies an extra melty, chocolatey touch. I like dark chocolate chips for that bittersweet flavor.
Is Cheesecake Brownies Good for You?
Now, don’t be fooled; while cheesecake brownies are a tempting treat, they should be enjoyed in moderation!
Cream Cheese: This lovely ingredient contains calcium and protein, making the cheesecake layer not just tasty but also somewhat nutrient-rich. Just remember to opt for lower-fat varieties if you’re looking to cut down on calories.
Gluten-Free Ingredients: If you or someone you know is sensitive to gluten, going gluten-free allows you to enjoy these indulgent bars without the tummy troubles!
However, they do contain a hefty dose of sugar and fat, so it’s a treat best reserved for special occasions. Keep in mind that few desserts offer the same level of satisfaction as a good brownie, so savor each bite!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for cheesecake layer)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
These quantities will yield around 16 delicious brownie squares!
How to Make Cheesecake Brownies?
1. **Prep Your Oven**: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. **Make the Brownie Batter**: In a large bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, and sugar. Add in the melted butter and eggs, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix—less is more here!
3. **Prepare the Cheesecake Layer**: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Add one egg and mix until well blended.
4. **Combine**: Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Next, gently pour the cheesecake layer on top, followed by the remaining brownie batter. You can use a knife or a toothpick to swirl the cheesecake and brownie layers for a marbled look if you fancy!
5. **Bake**: Pop that whole pan in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean (a few gooey brownie crumbs are okay!).
6. **Cool and Serve**: Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice them into square pieces and get ready for compliments!
Sweet Suggestions for Serving
If you really want to amp up these brownies, try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. You can also drizzle a little chocolate or caramel sauce for an added indulgence. Trust me, it’s pure heaven!
While this recipe is fantastic on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it. You could add some crushed nuts or even fold in fresh raspberries for a fruity twist. The possibilities are endless!
I genuinely hope you give these gluten-free cheesecake brownies a try! They’re such a crowd-pleaser, and I would love to hear how yours turned out. Remember, baking is all about having fun, so don’t worry if everything isn’t perfect. Just enjoy every moment of the process. Happy baking!