If you love desserts that take indulgence to a whole new level, Cookie Dough Cheesecake Brownies are about to become your new guilty pleasure. Imagine layers of rich, fudgy brownie topped with luscious cheesecake and dollops of irresistible, chocolate chip-studded cookie dough. Every bite is a dreamy fusion of three classic desserts, delivering an unforgettable explosion of textures and flavors. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this decadent treat is bound to steal the show (and maybe the last piece off the platter).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of simple, star ingredients is all it takes to make these unforgettable bars. Each one has a distinct role: the brownie base brings deep chocolate flavor, the cheesecake mixture adds creamy tang, and the cookie dough delivers that signature chewy-sweet magic.
- Fudge brownie mix (18–19 ounces): The quickest way to a dense, chocolatey foundation—grab your favorite brand!
- Ingredients for brownie mix: Check your box; usually eggs, oil, and water are all you need to get things started.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): The not-so-secret ingredient that creates that velvety cheesecake swirl.
- Granulated sugar (total 1/2 cup): Adds sweetness, both in the cheesecake and cookie dough layers.
- Large egg: Gives the cheesecake layer its rich, creamy texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon, divided): Amps up flavor from both cheesecake and cookie dough.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Because cookie dough without butter just isn’t the same.
- Light brown sugar (1/4 cup, packed): Brings depth and caramel notes to the cookie dough.
- Milk (2 tablespoons): Softens the cookie dough just enough for perfect texture.
- All-purpose flour (3/4 cup): The backbone of chewy, classic cookie dough.
- Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup): For delightful pops of chocolate in every cookie dough bite.
How to Make Cookie Dough Cheesecake Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Set yourself up for brownie-making success by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang. This little trick guarantees easy removal—the bars will lift right out, ready for slicing.
Step 2: Whip Up the Brownie Base
Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, which usually just means mixing in some eggs, oil, and water. Pour the velvety batter into your prepared pan and spread it into an even layer. This chocolatey base will soon support all the creamy, dreamy toppings!
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, egg, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and silky. Drop generous spoonfuls of this creamy mixture over the brownie batter. Grab a butter knife and gently swirl the cheesecake into the brownies—watch as those beautiful marbled patterns emerge!
Step 4: Time for Cookie Dough Magic
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and the brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Mix in the milk and vanilla extract, then stir in the flour until fully combined. Fold in the mini chocolate chips, making sure every bit of dough gets some chocolatey goodness. Drop small pieces of this edible cookie dough over the cheesecake layer for irresistible, melty pockets of sweetness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your pan to the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for a center that’s just set and a toothpick inserted toward the middle that comes out mostly clean—a few moist crumbs are perfectly fine. Let the Cookie Dough Cheesecake Brownies cool completely in the pan (this step is crucial so everything sets up just right).
Step 6: Chill and Slice
For ultra-clean cuts, pop your cooled brownies in the refrigerator for at least an hour before slicing. Use the parchment paper to lift everything out of the pan, then cut into decadent squares. Get ready to wow yourself and anyone lucky enough to snag a piece!
How to Serve Cookie Dough Cheesecake Brownies
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar, extra mini chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate can send your Cookie Dough Cheesecake Brownies over the top. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream will turn one brownie square into a show-stopping dessert.
Side Dishes
While these brownies are absolutely perfect solo, you can pair them with some fresh strawberries or raspberries to balance the richness. A glass of cold milk, a hot mug of coffee, or even a silky latte makes the flavors pop and elevates your treat into a café-worthy experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the brownie squares on a tiered dessert tray for celebrations, or serve each one in a cupcake liner for grab-and-go party treats. For an extra fun twist, cut them into small bites and provide mini skewers for an eye-catching dessert platter at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cookie Dough Cheesecake Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days, meaning you’ve got nearly a week of sweet little pick-me-ups whenever you want one.
Freezing
These brownies freeze beautifully! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then pop them into a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re craving a treat, just thaw in the fridge overnight—your future self will thank you.
Reheating
If you love a gooey, just-baked feel, microwave a square for 10 to 15 seconds straight from the fridge. The chocolate chips get melty, and the brownie turns ultra-fudgy—pure heaven all over again.
FAQs
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a boxed mix?
Absolutely! If you have a tried-and-true from-scratch brownie recipe, feel free to use it. Just make sure it fits a 9×13-inch pan for the right proportions and baking time.
Is the cookie dough layer safe to eat?
Yes, this cookie dough doesn’t contain any raw eggs and the flour gets baked in the oven, making it safe and scrumptious in every bite.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick near the center. A few moist crumbs are fine, but it shouldn’t come out with raw batter. Remember, the brownies will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Of course! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded into the brownie batter for crunch and extra flavor, just be mindful of any nut allergies among your guests.
What’s the best way to cut Cookie Dough Cheesecake Brownies cleanly?
For super-neat squares, chill the brownies first, then use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts. It’s a little extra effort, but the gorgeous layers will be totally worth it.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing showstopper or simply want to treat yourself, don’t wait another minute to make these Cookie Dough Cheesecake Brownies. They’re ultra-rich, utterly irresistible, and guaranteed to become a beloved favorite. Happy baking, and may your brownie squares always be extra thick!
Print
Cookie Dough Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with these decadent Cookie Dough Cheesecake Brownies. A rich fudge brownie base topped with a creamy cheesecake layer and irresistible cookie dough – a perfect treat for any sweet tooth!
Ingredients
Brownie Layer:
- 1 box (18–19 ounces) fudge brownie mix plus ingredients listed on the box
Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cookie Dough Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare Brownie Layer: Prepare brownie mix according to package instructions, pour into pan.
- Make Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Spoon over brownie batter and swirl gently.
- Prepare Cookie Dough: Cream butter, sugars until fluffy, add milk, vanilla, then flour and chocolate chips. Drop over cheesecake layer.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes until center is set.
- Cool and Serve: Cool in pan, then cut into squares.
Notes
- For easier cutting, chill the bars in the fridge for at least an hour before slicing.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
