If there were ever a dessert that perfectly balances decadent chocolate, luscious cheesecake, and that unmistakable hazelnut magic, it has to be Nutella Cheesecake Brownies. Imagine a dreamy fusion of rich, fudgy brownies swirled with a creamy cheesecake topping and plenty of gooey Nutella, all in every single bite. This recipe is a dazzling treat for chocolate lovers and cheesecake aficionados alike—easy enough for a weeknight baking session and impressive enough for any celebration!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these brownies lies in using simple, familiar ingredients—each one with a job to do for taste, texture, and those picture-perfect layers! Here’s what you’ll need, and why every component matters:
- Unsalted butter, melted: Keeps the brownies impossibly moist and rich without overpowering the Nutella flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the brownie base and the cheesecake swirl for perfect balance.
- Large eggs (room temperature): Hold everything together and provide the chewy, glossy texture you want in a brownie.
- Pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to both the brownie and cheesecake layers.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives the brownies that deep, intense chocolate backbone.
- All-purpose flour: Just enough structure to keep everything fudgy instead of cakey.
- Salt: Rounds out the sweetness and brightens up the chocolate flavors.
- Nutella (divided): The star ingredient—creamy, nutty, and utterly irresistible—used throughout for maximum flavor impact.
- Cream cheese (softened): Blends beautifully into a smooth, tangy cheesecake swirl.
- Granulated sugar (for cheesecake layer): Sweetens the cheesecake without overpowering its tang.
- Large egg yolk (for cheesecake layer): Gives the cheesecake swirl a rich, custardy finish.
- Pure vanilla extract (for cheesecake layer): Enhances the cream cheese and brings together all the flavors in that gorgeous swirl.
How to Make Nutella Cheesecake Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper—make sure to leave a bit of overhang on the sides so you can easily lift out the brownies later. This simple step ensures beautiful squares and a no-fuss cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture looks silky and glossy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until everything is well combined and a little lighter in color. Next, sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together—stop as soon as you see the last streak of flour disappear for the best fudgy brownies possible.
Step 3: Nutella Magic – First Swirl
Pour the brownie batter into your prepared pan and smooth it into an even layer. Take half of your Nutella (that’s 1/4 cup) and warm it briefly in the microwave so it’s pourable. Drizzle this Nutella over the brownie layer in zigzags or swoops. Don’t worry about perfection—a rustic swirl is just as delightful!
Step 4: Whip Up the Cheesecake Swirl
In a separate medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar until perfectly smooth and creamy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, then mix until everything is fully incorporated. Drop generous spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture all over the brownie base, making sure you get some in every corner.
Step 5: Swirl It Up with Nutella Once More
Warm the rest of your Nutella and drizzle it over the pan. Take a knife or toothpick and gently swirl together the brownie, cheesecake, and Nutella layers. It doesn’t have to be perfectly uniform—those swirls are what make each piece unique and irresistible!
Step 6: Bake to Fudgy Perfection
Place your pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye out—the edges should be set, but a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs. This keeps your Nutella Cheesecake Brownies deliciously fudgy. Let them cool completely before slicing, so the swirls set beautifully and every square holds its shape.
How to Serve Nutella Cheesecake Brownies
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, sprinkle the brownies with chocolate shavings, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a few chopped hazelnuts. A light drizzle of warm Nutella over the top is always welcome, making these treats look bakery-worthy without any fuss.
Side Dishes
Nutella Cheesecake Brownies are truly rich on their own, but they absolutely shine alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of freshly whipped cream. If you’re in the mood for contrast, serve them with a handful of fresh strawberries or sliced bananas for a bright fruity pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn dessert into a special event! Stack brownie squares into a tower, serving each one with a different scoop of ice cream or fruit. Cut the bars smaller and arrange them on a platter for a party bite, or use fun cookie cutters to make shapes for kids’ parties and festive occasions. However you serve them, Nutella Cheesecake Brownies are guaranteed to wow.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Nutella Cheesecake Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay moist, flavorful, and utterly delicious for up to 5 days. (That is, if they last that long!) Chilling them also makes the cheesecake layer especially creamy.
Freezing
If you’d like to keep a stash for sudden cravings—or to impress guests at a moment’s notice—these brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
If you like your Nutella Cheesecake Brownies warm and a little gooey, simply pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This brings the Nutella back to its melty, irresistible state and makes every bite feel freshly baked. Add a scoop of ice cream for instant dessert magic!
FAQs
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Keep an eye on the baking time—you may need to add a few extra minutes, but use the toothpick test for doneness.
Can I use a different chocolate-hazelnut spread instead of Nutella?
Yes, your favorite chocolate-hazelnut spread will work just fine! The overall taste may vary slightly depending on the brand, but the results will still be creamy, chocolatey, and deliciously swirled.
Do Nutella Cheesecake Brownies need to be refrigerated?
Because of the cream cheese cheesecake layer, it’s best to store these brownies in the fridge. This also helps maintain their texture and keeps them fresh for longer.
How do I cut perfect brownie squares without ruining the swirl?
Once the brownies have cooled completely, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between each cut, for neat squares with defined layers and swirls.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to check that your other ingredients are certified gluten-free, and you’re set for a scrumptious treat.
Final Thoughts
If ever there was a dessert to brighten your day and win hearts, it’s Nutella Cheesecake Brownies. They’re a breeze to make, downright decadent to eat, and the swirls are always stunning. Don’t wait for a special occasion—treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch, and experience the magic firsthand!
Print
Nutella Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert with these decadent Nutella Cheesecake Brownies. A rich, fudgy brownie layer swirled with creamy cheesecake and Nutella for a delightful marble effect.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup Nutella, divided
Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Mix Brownie Batter: Whisk melted butter and sugar, then add eggs and vanilla. Sift in cocoa, flour, and salt; mix and pour into pan.
- Add Nutella: Warm 1/4 cup Nutella, drizzle over batter.
- Prepare Cheesecake: Beat cream cheese and sugar, add egg yolk and vanilla. Spoon over brownie batter, swirl with Nutella.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until set. Cool, slice, and serve.
Notes
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For a luxurious treat, serve slightly chilled or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
