The Ultimate Cheesecake Brownies: Fudgy, Tangy, and Pure Bliss

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang, and lightly grease.
2. 2

   In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. 3

   Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract.
4. 4

   In a separate bowl, whisk cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
5. 5

   Pour about two-thirds of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Reserve the remaining one-third.
6. 6

   For the cheesecake layer: In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with ¼ cup granulated sugar until smooth. Mix in egg yolk, sour cream, and ½ tsp vanilla extract until just combined.
7. 7

   Drop dollops of cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. Then, drop small spoonfuls of the reserved brownie batter into gaps and on top of cheesecake.
8. 8

   Using a butter knife or skewer, gently swirl the batters together 6-8 times to create a marbled effect.
9. 9

   Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the brownie portion comes out with moist crumbs. The center may still be slightly jiggly.
10. 10

    Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For cleanest cuts, chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing into squares.