If you love chocolate and fruit together, this Cherry Cheesecake Brownies with Fresh Cherries Recipe is perfect. These brownies are rich, fudgy and have a creamy cheesecake layer.
Fresh cherries on top add a sweet and slightly tart flavor. They are fun to make and taste amazing. You only need a few simple ingredients and the process is easy to follow.
If you are wondering how to make Cherry Cheesecake Brownies with Fresh Cherries, this guide will help you step by step. You will also learn tips for perfect brownies every time and how to serve them for maximum enjoyment.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first made these brownies on a weekend when cherries were fresh and in season. The smell of chocolate and cheesecake baking together was heavenly. The fresh cherries made every bite juicy and delicious.
My family could not stop eating them! I loved how easy it was to swirl the cheesecake mixture into the chocolate batter. Even beginners can follow this recipe and get professional-looking results. Now, I make these brownies whenever I want a special dessert that impresses everyone.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Cherry Cheesecake Brownies with Fresh Cherries
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Ingredients You Need for Cherry Cheesecake Brownies with Fresh Cherries
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (40 g) cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper. - Make Brownie Batter
Melt butter in a bowl. Add sugar, eggs and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and combined. - Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in cocoa powder, flour and salt. Mix gently until fully combined and no lumps remain. - Prepare Cheesecake Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg and vanilla until creamy and smooth. - Layer Brownie Batter
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spread evenly with a spatula. - Add Cheesecake Layer
Spoon the cheesecake mixture over brownie batter. Spread gently to cover brownie layer. - Swirl Cheesecake and Brownie
Add remaining brownie batter in spoonfuls on top. Use a knife to swirl layers lightly. - Add Fresh Cherries
Scatter halved fresh cherries evenly over the top of the batter before baking. - Bake the Brownies
Bake in preheated oven for 30–35 minutes. Insert toothpick to check; it should come out mostly clean. - Cool Before Cutting
Let brownies cool completely in the pan. Chill in fridge for 20 minutes for easier slicing. - Slice and Serve
Remove from pan and slice into squares. Serve as a delicious dessert with chocolate drizzle if desired.
Tips to Make the Best Cherry Cheesecake Brownies with Fresh Cherries
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix brownie batter to keep it fudgy.
- Soften cream cheese to prevent lumps in cheesecake layer.
- Swirl gently to get a pretty marbled effect.
- Chill brownies before cutting to keep layers intact.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using frozen cherries; they release too much liquid and make brownies soggy.
- Overbaking, which makes brownies dry.
- Skipping parchment paper; brownies stick to the pan.
- Not letting cream cheese soften; cheesecake layer may be lumpy.
- Cutting brownies too early; layers may collapse.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cherry cheesecake brownies slightly chilled or at room temperature. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
They also taste great with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. Perfect for parties, family gatherings or a sweet treat after dinner. Garnish with extra cherries or powdered sugar for a pretty presentation.
Variations You Can Try
- Use chocolate chips or chunks for extra chocolate flavor.
- Add almond extract to cheesecake for a nutty twist.
- Use frozen blueberries or raspberries instead of cherries.
- Sprinkle crushed nuts on top for texture.
- Make mini brownies using a muffin pan for individual servings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Keep brownies chilled to preserve cheesecake layer and fresh cherries.
- Reheat slightly in the microwave for a warm treat, about 10–15 seconds.
- Freeze uncut brownies for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Avoid covering brownies with plastic wrap directly; use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 28 g |
Health Benefits
Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which support immunity. They also have natural anti-inflammatory properties. Using fresh cherries in brownies adds natural sweetness and nutrients.
Cream cheese provides protein and calcium. By using moderate sugar, this dessert can be enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet. This recipe combines indulgence with a touch of fresh fruit nutrition.
Cherry Cheesecake Brownies with Fresh Cherries Recipe
Ingredients
For the Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup 115 g unsalted butter
- 1 cup 200 g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup 40 g cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup 65 g all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz 225 g cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup 50 g granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh cherries pitted and halved
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
Make Brownie Batter
- Melt butter in a bowl. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and combined.
Add Dry Ingredients
- Stir in cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Mix gently until fully combined and no lumps remain.
Prepare Cheesecake Mixture
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until creamy and smooth.
Layer Brownie Batter
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spread evenly with a spatula.
Add Cheesecake Layer
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over brownie batter. Spread gently to cover brownie layer.
Swirl Cheesecake and Brownie
- Add remaining brownie batter in spoonfuls on top. Use a knife to swirl layers lightly.
Add Fresh Cherries
- Scatter halved fresh cherries evenly over the top of the batter before baking.
Bake the Brownies
- Bake in preheated oven for 30–35 minutes. Insert toothpick to check; it should come out mostly clean.
Cool Before Cutting
- Let brownies cool completely in the pan. Chill in fridge for 20 minutes for easier slicing.
Slice and Serve
- Remove from pan and slice into squares. Serve as a delicious dessert with chocolate drizzle if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix brownie batter to keep it fudgy.
- Soften cream cheese to prevent lumps in cheesecake layer.
- Swirl gently to get a pretty marbled effect.
- Chill brownies before cutting to keep layers intact.
FAQs about Cherry Cheesecake Brownies with Fresh Cherries
Q1: Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first. Excess liquid may make brownies too wet or soggy.
Q2: How do I prevent cheesecake layer from cracking?
Use softened cream cheese and avoid overmixing. Swirl gently with brownie batter to keep smooth.
Q3: Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Yes, make a day ahead. Store in fridge and they taste even better chilled and set.
Q4: Can I use a different pan size?
Yes, adjust baking time if using a larger or smaller pan. Check with a toothpick for doneness.
Q5: How do I get fudgy brownies?
Don’t overbake and mix gently. Using quality chocolate or cocoa enhances fudgy texture.
Final Thoughts
These Cherry Cheesecake Brownies with Fresh Cherries are a perfect blend of chocolate, cheesecake and fresh fruit. hey are rich, fudgy and visually stunning with swirled layers and cherries on top.
Easy to make, fun to serve and delicious to eat, they are a dessert everyone will love. Perfect for special occasions or just a weekend treat, this recipe brings joy with every bite.
Once you try it, it will become a favorite in your dessert collection. Enjoy the creamy, fruity, chocolatey goodness!
Hi, I’m Emily Grace! I love cooking simple, tasty food that brings people together. On Bite Dive, I share easy recipes, fun food tips, and ideas to make every meal special. My kitchen is my happy place, and I’m so excited to share it with you!