Ingredients
For the Fudgy Brownie Base
- 1 cup butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Swirl
- 1 cup strawberry pie filling
- 1/4 cup fresh strawberries, diced small
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to easily lift out the brownies later.
- Make the brownie batter: In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and vanilla extract just until the batter comes together. Avoid over-mixing to keep brownies tender.
- Pour brownie batter: Spread the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Mix the cream cheese layer: In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat again until smooth and creamy.
- Layer the cheesecake mixture: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter. Gently spread it covering most of the brownie layer without mixing the layers together.
- Add the strawberry swirl: Spoon dollops of strawberry pie filling on top of the cream cheese layer. Using a knife, swirl it through the cheesecake mixture in a figure-eight pattern to create pretty ribbons of strawberry flavor. Be careful not to over-swirl.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center will still jiggle slightly when gently shaken.
- Cool and chill: Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack. Once at room temperature, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to fully set the cheesecake layer.
- Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. For clean slices, wet a sharp knife with hot water and wipe it clean between cuts. Garnish with diced fresh strawberries before serving.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth cheesecake layer.
- Do not over-mix the brownie batter to keep a tender and fudgy texture.
- Use good quality unsweetened cocoa powder for richer flavor.
- Swirling should be gentle to create pretty ribbons rather than a pink mess.
- Allow full chilling time to ensure clean slices and perfect texture.
- Use parchment paper overhang for easy removal of brownies from pan.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American