Why You’ll Love Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

It fuses two favorites—cheesecake and brownies—into one irresistible dessert.
The strawberry adds freshness and bright flavor contrast.
It’s visually striking and perfect for sharing.
It’s flexible: you can use boxed mix or homemade brownie batter, and you can customize the fruit or swirl design.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Brownie Layer

Butter
Sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All‑purpose flour
Cocoa powder
Baking powder

For the Cheesecake Layer

Cream cheese, softened
Granulated sugar
Egg
Vanilla extract
(Optional) sour cream
Optional flour
(Optional) strawberry jam or puree

For the Topping/Garnish

Fresh strawberries, sliced
(Optional) extra strawberry jam to swirl or drizzle

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line a 9×9‑inch or 8×8‑inch baking pan with parchment paper (or grease it).
Prepare the brownie batter: melt butter, mix in sugar, then add eggs and vanilla. Whisk dry ingredients (flour, cocoa, baking powder) and combine until just mixed.
Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared pan.
Make the cheesecake layer: beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth, then add egg and vanilla and mix in (optionally) sour cream. If using flour, fold it in. If you like, swirl in strawberry jam or puree.
Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer and spread gently.
Arrange sliced strawberries on top, or swirl more jam into the cheesecake layer as desired.
Bake for about 30–35 minutes (or 35–40, depending on your pan) until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (don’t overbake).
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan, then lift them out using the parchment overhang. Chill if you want cleaner slices.
Slice into squares and serve, optionally garnished with extra strawberry slices or a drizzle of jam or whipped topping.

Servings and timing

Yield: about 16 brownies
Prep time: ~20 minutes
Bake time: ~35–40 minutes
Total time: ~1 hour (including cooling)

Variations

Use raspberries, blueberries, or mixed berries instead of strawberries.
Create a marbled look by swirling cheesecake and brownie batters together.
Add a nut mix (walnuts, pecans, almonds) into the brownie batter for crunch.
Swap the cocoa‑based brownie for melted dark chocolate for richer flavor.
For a gluten‑free version, use a 1:1 gluten‑free flour blend.
For dairy‑free or vegan, use plant‑based cream cheese and butter, and substitute eggs with flax or chia eggs.
Use sugar substitutes or low‑sugar chocolate for a lower‑sugar twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
To freeze: wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer‑safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
For serving after chilling or freezing, you can let them sit at room temperature for a bit or warm slightly (a few seconds in the microwave) to soften, but avoid melting the cheesecake layer.

FAQs

What kind of pan should I use?

Use a square baking pan (8×8 or 9×9 inches). Lining with parchment paper (with overhang) helps you lift the brownies out easily.

Can I use boxed brownie mix instead of making brownies from scratch?

Yes — you can use a boxed brownie mix (prepared according to the box) as your brownie base if you want to simplify the process.

Why is the cheesecake layer not setting?

The cheesecake layer may not set if it was overmixed (incorporating too much air) or if the brownies weren’t baked long enough. Ensure the center holds with a few moist crumbs on a toothpick test.

My strawberries made the top watery. What to do?

Drain excess liquid from the strawberries before placing them on top. Avoid overly juicy berries. You can also reduce jam or puree before adding.

Can I swirl the jam into the cheesecake layer?

Yes — gently swirl strawberry jam or puree into the cheesecake mixture to produce a marbled effect.

How do I get clean slices?

Chill the cooled brownies in the refrigerator before slicing. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts.

Can I omit the sour cream?

Yes — sour cream is optional. It adds tang and creaminess, but the recipe works without it.

What other fruits could I use?

Try raspberries, blueberries, peaches, or even mixed berries in place of strawberries.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy‑free?

Yes — use vegan cream cheese and butter, and substitute eggs (for example, flax eggs). Use sugar and chocolate that are dairy‑free.

How should I reheat a slice?

You can warm a slice for a few seconds in the microwave to soften slightly, or let it come to room temperature. Avoid long heating to prevent compromising the cheesecake layer.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies recipe is a delightful mashup of classic desserts: the deep, fudgy richness of brownies combined with creamy cheesecake and fresh strawberry brightness. With flexible options for customization, it’s a dessert that can adapt to your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you make it for a gathering or just for yourself, it’s sure to impress and satisfy.