Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies: A Decadent Fusion of Flavors

Introduction

Imagine the perfect marriage of rich, fudgy brownies and creamy, tangy cheesecake, swirled with sweet strawberry jam. This delightful combination creates a dessert that is both indulgent and irresistible: Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies. Whether you are a baking novice or an experienced dessert enthusiast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a total time of 3 hours and 20 minutes, these brownies are an excellent choice for any special occasion or a delightful treat for yourself. Let’s dive into the details of how to create these scrumptious bars.

Ingredients and Their Roles

To create this masterpiece, you will need a variety of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the final product:

Pillsbury® Family Size Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix (19.5 oz.): This mix serves as the base of our brownies, providing a rich, chocolatey foundation.
Crisco® Pure Vegetable Oil (1/2 cup): Oil adds moisture and helps to create a tender, fudgy brownie texture.
Water (1/4 cup): Water is necessary to hydrate the brownie mix and bring the batter together.
Large Eggs (4, divided): Eggs are divided in this recipe, with two used in the brownie batter and two in the cheesecake filling, adding structure and richness to both layers.
Chopped Walnuts (3/4 cup, optional): Walnuts add a delightful crunch and contrast to the smooth textures, though they are optional based on preference.
Cream Cheese (2 packages, 8 oz. each, softened): The cream cheese is the star of the cheesecake layer, providing a creamy and tangy flavor.
Eagle Brand® Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 can, 14 oz.): This ingredient sweetens the cheesecake filling and adds a silky texture.
Lemon Juice (1/3 cup): Lemon juice adds a subtle tang that complements the sweetness of the condensed milk and enhances the flavor of the cheesecake.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp.): Vanilla extract adds depth and a hint of warmth to the cheesecake filling.
Smucker’s® Seedless Strawberry Jam (1/2 cup): The strawberry jam creates the beautiful marbled effect on top of the cheesecake layer, adding a burst of fruity sweetness.

Step-by-Step Directions

Creating Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies involves several steps, but each one is straightforward and easy to follow. Here’s how to bring these delectable bars to life:

Prepare the Brownie Layer:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 13×9-inch baking pan with no-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the brownies.
- In a large bowl, combine the Pillsbury® Family Size Chocolate Fudge Brownie Mix, Crisco® Pure Vegetable Oil, water, and 2 of the large eggs. Stir the mixture 50 strokes with a spoon until well combined. If you like a bit of crunch in your brownies, fold in the chopped walnuts at this stage.
- Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This partial baking allows the brownie layer to set, creating a sturdy base for the cheesecake topping.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer:
- While the brownie layer is baking, prepare the cheesecake layer. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a smooth cheesecake filling.
- Gradually add the Eagle Brand® Sweetened Condensed Milk to the cream cheese, beating constantly to ensure a smooth mixture.
- Mix in the remaining 2 large eggs, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Continue to beat the mixture until it is well combined and smooth.
- Once the brownie layer has baked for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven. Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over the warm brownie base, spreading it out with a spatula if necessary.
Create the Marbled Effect:
- Stir the Smucker’s® Seedless Strawberry Jam until it is smooth and easy to work with.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of the jam over the surface of the cheesecake filling. Using a knife, gently swirl the jam through the cheesecake mixture to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix, as you want distinct swirls of jam throughout the cheesecake layer.
Bake and Chill:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top of the cheesecake layer is lightly browned and set.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. This initial cooling period helps the layers to set properly.
- After the brownies have cooled, loosely cover the pan with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Chilling not only enhances the flavor but also makes the bars easier to cut.
Cut and Serve:
- Once the brownies are thoroughly chilled, remove them from the refrigerator. Use a sharp knife to cut the dessert into 18 bars.
- For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between each slice. This helps to keep the layers distinct and prevents the cheesecake from sticking to the knife.
- Serve the Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies chilled, and enjoy the combination of rich brownie, creamy cheesecake, and sweet strawberry in every bite.

Tips for Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the cream cheese is fully softened before beating. This prevents lumps in the cheesecake layer and results in a smoother texture.
Swirling the Jam: When creating the marbled effect, less is more. Overmixing can cause the colors to blend too much, losing the distinct swirl pattern.
Cooling and Chilling: Allow ample time for cooling and chilling. This step is crucial for the flavors to meld and the layers to set properly.
Optional Add-Ins: While walnuts add a nice crunch, you can customize the recipe by adding other mix-ins such as chocolate chips or dried fruit.

Variations and Customizations

Berry Swirl: Substitute the strawberry jam with raspberry or blueberry jam for a different berry flavor.
Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts for a nut-free version, or substitute with your favorite nut alternatives.
Chocolate Lovers: Add a layer of chocolate ganache on top of the cheesecake layer for an extra decadent treat.

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways to enhance their presentation and taste:

With Fresh Berries: Garnish each bar with a few fresh strawberries or a mix of berries. This not only adds a fresh element but also highlights the strawberry flavor in the dessert.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each bar can add a light and airy contrast to the rich and dense brownie and cheesecake layers.
Ice Cream: Serve the brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The cold ice cream complements the creamy cheesecake and fudgy brownie perfectly.
Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the brownies before serving. This adds a beautiful finish and an additional layer of chocolate flavor.

Storing and Freezing

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and quality of your Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies:

Refrigeration: Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps the cheesecake layer firm and prevents the brownies from becoming too soft.
Freezing: If you need to store the brownies for a longer period, you can freeze them. Place the cut bars on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the bars to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw the brownies in the refrigerator overnight.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of these indulgent treats can help you enjoy them mindfully:

Calories: Each bar contains approximately 300 calories.
Fat: The brownies have around 20 grams of fat, with 10 grams being saturated fat.
Carbohydrates: Each bar provides about 30 grams of carbohydrates, including sugars from the brownie mix, sweetened condensed milk, and jam.
Protein: The cream cheese and eggs contribute to a protein content of around 5 grams per bar.

Pairing Suggestions

Enhance the experience of enjoying Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies with these pairing suggestions:

Beverages: Pair these rich and creamy bars with a cup of coffee or tea. The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the brownies, while a herbal tea can provide a refreshing contrast.
Wine: For an adult twist, serve the brownies with a glass of dessert wine, such as a late harvest Riesling or a sweet Moscato. The wine’s sweetness and acidity can balance the richness of the dessert.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Baking can sometimes be unpredictable, but here are solutions to common issues you might encounter:

Cracked Cheesecake: If the cheesecake layer cracks, it could be due to overbaking or rapid cooling. Ensure you bake the brownies just until the top is lightly browned and allow them to cool gradually at room temperature before refrigerating.
Soggy Brownies: If the brownie layer seems too moist or soggy, it might be underbaked. Make sure to bake the brownie layer for the full 20 minutes before adding the cheesecake layer.
Swirl Not Visible: If the strawberry swirl is not prominent, you might have overmixed the jam into the cheesecake layer. Use a light hand when swirling the jam to achieve distinct and beautiful patterns.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies are not just a dessert; they are an experience. The combination of textures and flavors makes them a standout treat that is sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a special occasion, or simply to enjoy a delicious treat, these brownies are the perfect choice.

With detailed steps, tips for success, and suggestions for serving and storing, you are well-equipped to make this delightful dessert. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a batch of Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies that will leave everyone asking for more. Happy baking!