Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent dessert that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy smoothness of cheesecake and the irresistible crunch of peanut butter cups. This isn't just a dessert—it's a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance and your guests beg for the recipe! Whether you're a chocolate lover, a cheesecake fanatic, or simply someone who appreciates mind-blowing desserts, these Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 servings
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped peanut butter cups
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, prepare the brownie mix by combining brownie mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to create a uniform base.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
- Add sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter in small spoonfuls, then use a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese into the brownie base, creating a marbled effect.
- Sprinkle the chopped peanut butter cups evenly across the top of the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan at room temperature, which will take approximately 1-2 hours.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut into 16 equal squares, ensuring each piece has a swirl of cheesecake and some peanut butter cup pieces.
- For best flavor and texture, refrigerate the brownies for at least an hour before serving. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Make sure your cream cheese is truly softened at room temperature to ensure a smooth, lump-free cheesecake swirl.
- Don't overmix the brownie batter—stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are just combined to keep the texture fudgy.
- For the most beautiful marbling effect, use a butter knife and make gentle, zigzag motions when swirling the cheesecake mixture.
- Chop the peanut butter cups into roughly uniform pieces to ensure even distribution.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting to get clean, precise squares.
- For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the top before serving.
- These brownies taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make them in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 45mg
