Introduction
Indulging in a decadent dessert is a delight, and what better way to treat yourself than with a rich brownie cheesecake topped with fresh strawberries? This delightful dessert combines the fudgy texture of brownies with the creamy goodness of cheesecake, elevated by a vibrant strawberry topping. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe will leave everyone craving more.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Brownie Layer:
– Bittersweet chocolate, chopped
– Butter
– Eggs, room temperature
– Granulated sugar
– Vanilla extract
– All-purpose flour
– Unsweetened cocoa powder
– Salt
Cheesecake Layer:
– Full-fat cream cheese, softened
– Granulated sugar
– Vanilla extract
– Egg, room temperature
Strawberry Topping:
– Fresh strawberries, ripe and bright red
– Granulated sugar
– Cornstarch
Prep Time
Approximately 30 minutes to prepare the layers and topping.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: About 3 hours (including cooling)
Yield: Serves 9-12, depending on portion size.
Directions
1. **Preparation:**
– Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
– Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. **Brownie Layer:**
– In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chopped bittersweet chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
– Pour the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
– In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt.
– Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
– Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
3. **Cheesecake Layer:**
– In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
– Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
– Add the room temperature egg and beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
– Gently spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer in the baking pan, smoothing the top.
4. **Strawberry Topping:**
– In a small saucepan, combine the fresh strawberries and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture begins to simmer.
– In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry.
– Add the cornstarch slurry to the strawberry mixture, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
– Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry mixture over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the strawberry topping into the cheesecake layer, creating a marbled effect.
5. **Baking:**
– Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs.
– Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature in the pan.
– Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set.
6. **Serving:**
– Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan.
– Place on a cutting board and slice into squares.
– Serve chilled and enjoy.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
– Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Brownie Layer
– In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chopped bittersweet chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
– Pour the slightly cooled chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and whisk until smooth.
– In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt.
– Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
– Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
Cheesecake Layer
– In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
– Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
– Add the room temperature egg and beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
– Gently spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer in the baking pan, smoothing the top.
Strawberry Topping
– In a small saucepan, combine the fresh strawberries and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture begins to simmer.
– In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry.
– Add the cornstarch slurry to the strawberry mixture, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
– Drop spoonfuls of the strawberry mixture over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the strawberry topping into the cheesecake layer, creating a marbled effect.
Baking
– Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs.
– Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature in the pan.
– Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set.
Serving
– Once chilled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan.
– Place on a cutting board and slice into squares.
– Serve chilled and enjoy.
Notes
Storage
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Serving Tip
– These brownies can be served with whipped cream or more fresh strawberries for added flavor and decoration.
Ingredient Substitution
– For a gluten-free version, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Cook techniques
Melting Chocolate and Butter
Melt bittersweet chocolate and butter together over low heat, stirring constantly to achieve a smooth consistency.
Whisking Eggs and Sugar
Whisk together room temperature eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined and slightly frothy for better incorporation.
Sifting Dry Ingredients
Sift all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt to remove lumps and ensure even distribution in the batter.
Folding Ingredients
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula to prevent deflating the batter and maintain texture.
Beating Cream Cheese
Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy to ensure no lumps remain in the cheesecake layer.
Creating a Cornstarch Slurry
Mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to form a slurry that will help thicken the strawberry topping when heated.
Swirling Toppings
Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the strawberry topping into the cheesecake layer, creating a marbled effect without over-mixing.
Baking the Layers
Bake the assembled layers in a preheated oven until the center is set, using a toothpick to check for doneness.
Cooling and Chilling
Allow the dessert to cool to room temperature before refrigerating to let the layers set properly for optimal slicing.
FAQ
Can I use different types of chocolate for the brownie layer?
Yes, you can use other types of chocolate, but the flavor and texture may vary. Bittersweet chocolate offers a rich flavor profile.
What can I substitute for granulated sugar?
You can use brown sugar, coconut sugar, or a sugar substitute, keeping in mind that it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
How do I know if the cheesecake layer is done?
The cheesecake layer is done when it’s set in the center but still has a slight jiggle. Overbaking can cause it to crack.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert can be made a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated until serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for best quality.
Conclusion
The combination of rich brownie, creamy cheesecake, and fresh strawberries creates a delightful treat that is sure to impress. Each layer complements the others, providing a balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy this layered dessert as a special occasion delight or a sweet indulgence any day of the week.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Mint Brownies
Combining chocolate brownies with a layer of mint-flavored cream cheese frosting and topped with crushed mint candies.
Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Layer brownies with a rich peanut butter mixture and top with chopped peanuts for a savory twist.
Raspberry Cheesecake Brownies
Use fresh raspberries in place of strawberries for a tart topping that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the cheesecake.
Cookie Dough Brownies
Layer brownies with an edible cookie dough made from flour, butter, sugar, and chocolate chips for a fun treat.
Banana Cream Cheesecake Bars
Substitute the strawberries with ripe bananas and add a layer of banana cream for a tropical twist on the original recipe.
Chocolate Coconut Cream Bars
Incorporate shredded coconut into the brownie batter and top with a coconut cream layer for a tropical flavor experience.
Matcha Cheesecake Brownies
Add matcha powder to the cheesecake layer for a unique flavor and vibrant color that brings an earthy element to the dessert.
