Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies

Introduction

There’s something truly indulgent about a dessert that brings together the richness of chocolate, the creaminess of cheesecake, and the tart sweetness of blackberries. That’s precisely what you get with these Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies. When I first made them for my family, I was unsure how they would be received, but I needn’t have worried. The moment they took their first bite, their eyes lit up, and I knew I had hit the jackpot. The fudgy brownie base provides a decadent foundation, while the cheesecake layer adds a creamy texture, beautifully complemented by the vibrant blackberry swirl. This dessert is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight, making it perfect for gatherings or a special treat at home.

Ingredients

Blackberry Puree

• 6 oz fresh or frozen blackberries
• 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
• 1/4 cup water

Brownies

• 12 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Cheesecake

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

Blackberry Puree

1. In a small saucepan, combine the blackberries, sugar, and water over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally, breaking down the blackberries as they cook for about 8-10 minutes.
2. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl, pressing to release all the liquid. Discard the solids and let the puree cool.

Brownies

3. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8″x8″ baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
4. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
5. Fold in the cocoa powder and flour until just mixed, being careful not to overmix.
6. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Cheesecake

7. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, egg, sugar, and salt. Mix with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
8. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter and spread it to the edges.

Assemble and Bake

9. Add dollops of the blackberry puree on top of the cheesecake layer. Using a toothpick or knife, swirl the puree into the cheesecake layer without reaching the brownie batter below. For a smooth swirl, create a grid pattern with the puree and gently drag through with a toothpick or knife for an elegant design.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the cheesecake starts to turn golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
11. Allow the brownies to cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to set completely.

Serve

12. Cut into 9 large squares and serve chilled. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 9 large brownies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300 calories
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes (including cooling time)

How to Serve

• Serve the brownies chilled or at room temperature.
• Pair with:
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess.
• Whipped cream to enhance the dessert experience.
• A drizzle of chocolate sauce for a more decadent treat.

Additional Tips

1. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate for the best flavor.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese is at room temperature to achieve a smooth cheesecake layer.
3. Taste the Blackberry Puree: Adjust the sweetness of the blackberry puree by adding more sugar if desired.
4. Don’t Overmix: When combining the brownie batter, be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser brownies.
5. Cooling Time: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting to ensure neat slices.

Recipe Variations

• Different Berries: Substitute blackberries with raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for extra texture.
• Swirl Variations: Try swirling in peanut butter or chocolate ganache instead of blackberry puree.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan cream cheese and a flax egg for a plant-based version of this dessert.
• Add Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the cheesecake mixture for a citrusy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Party Dessert: Perfect for parties or gatherings, these brownies are sure to impress guests.
• Picnic Treat: Great for picnics or outdoor events; just pack them in a container and enjoy.
• Coffee Pairing: Serve with a cup of coffee or espresso for a delightful afternoon treat.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These brownies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen blackberries for the puree?

• Yes, frozen blackberries work perfectly for the puree. Just thaw them before cooking.

1. How can I tell when the brownies are done?

• The edges should be set, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.

1. What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

• You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or regular plain yogurt.

1. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

• Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.

1. How should I cut the brownies for neat slices?

• Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for clean edges.

1. Can I add chocolate chips to the brownie batter?

• Absolutely! Fold in chocolate chips for extra chocolate flavor.

1. What’s the best way to store leftover brownies?

• Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

1. How can I make these brownies more decadent?

• Drizzle with chocolate sauce or serve with ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

1. Can I use another type of cheese instead of cream cheese?

• For a different flavor, you can try using mascarpone cheese, but the texture will vary.

1. What’s the best way to serve these brownies?
   • They can be served alone, with toppings like whipped cream, or alongside a scoop of ice cream.

Conclusion

Blackberry Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and fruity blackberry goodness. This dessert not only looks stunning but also delivers on flavor and texture, making it a perfect addition to any dessert table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these brownies are sure to impress. Try making them for your next special occasion, and enjoy the compliments that come your way. With their fudgy brownie base and luscious cheesecake topping, they are a decadent treat that’s hard to resist!

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