Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies are the perfect treat for anyone who loves rich, chocolatey desserts. These brownies combine the warmth of hot chocolate with a creamy cheesecake layer, creating a deliciously indulgent treat. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why Make This Recipe

There are so many reasons to make Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies! First, they are easy to prepare and bake. Second, they are a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both chocolate lovers and cheesecake fans. Finally, they make for a beautiful dessert, with their marbled appearance and sweet toppings. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or share them with friends and family!

How to Make Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies

Follow these simple steps to whip up your own batch of Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 cup mini marshmallows
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
Stir in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined.
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out.
In another bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth, then add milk to thin it out if needed.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan.
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter on top and swirl it with a knife to create a marbled effect.
Sprinkle mini marshmallows and chocolate chips on top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
Let it cool before cutting into squares. Enjoy your Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies!

How to Serve Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies

Serve your Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies warm or at room temperature. They are great on their own or with a scoop of ice cream. You can also top them with whipped cream for an extra special touch!

How to Store Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies

To store your brownies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. You may also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies

Make sure your butter is melted completely but not hot to avoid cooking the eggs when added.
Don’t overmix the brownie batter; mix until just combined for a fudgier texture.
Feel free to customize your brownies by adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips!

Variation

You can add crushed peppermint candies for a festive twist during the holidays. Or try using white chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips for a different flavor.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
A1: Cream cheese gives a unique flavor and texture, but you can use mascarpone cheese as an alternative.

Q2: Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
A2: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Q3: How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
A3: Insert a toothpick in the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If it comes out wet, give them a few more minutes.