Super Bowl Desserts Brownie Cheesecake Squares

Name: Super Bowl Desserts Brownie Cheesecake Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg

Highlighted under: Celebration Meals

I can't think of a better way to celebrate the Super Bowl than with these delightful Brownie Cheesecake Squares. The combination of fudgy brownie and creamy cheesecake creates an indulgent dessert that everyone will love. I always make these when I have friends over for the game, and they disappear faster than I can cut them. The best part is how easy they are to prepare, allowing me to focus more on the game and less on the cooking. Trust me, these will be the highlight of your Super Bowl party!

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:53:35.043Z

When I made these Brownie Cheesecake Squares for the first time, I was impressed by how easily they combined two classic desserts into one. The brownie base is thick and gooey, while the cheesecake layer adds a silky smooth texture. I recommend using cream cheese at room temperature to ensure a lump-free filling; it makes a huge difference in the final result.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how versatile it is. You can mix in chocolate chips or a swirl of fruit puree to the cheesecake layer for a unique twist. Experimenting with flavors keeps everyone guessing and adds a personal touch to an already crowd-pleasing treat!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy cheesecake richness
Easy to make and perfect for sharing during the game
Foolproof way to impress your friends with minimal effort

      

Perfecting the Brownie Layer

The brownie layer of these cheesecake squares is crucial for achieving that rich, fudgy texture. Make sure to combine the melted butter and sugar thoroughly; this creates a glossy finish that adds to the brownies' richness. Mixing until just combined keeps the brownies from becoming tough, ensuring a soft bite. If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of unsweetened for a deeper color and taste.

When spreading the brownie batter, aim for an even layer across the base of the pan. This ensures each bite has that luscious chocolatey goodness. Use a flexible spatula or the back of a spoon to gently press the batter into the corners. If you notice that it sticks, lightly wetting the spatula can make the process smoother. This little trick makes it much easier to smooth out the batter without leaving behind any residue.

Making the Cheesecake Layer

The cheesecake layer should be velvety and smooth, which means your cream cheese must be at room temperature for optimal mixing. If you're short on time, you can microwave the cream cheese in 10-second increments to soften it. However, be careful not to overheat it; otherwise, it can become grainy. Beating it with powdered sugar helps to ensure a perfectly sweet and creamy consistency, which contrasts beautifully with the dense brownie layer below.

It's vital to incorporate the egg just until combined in the cheesecake mixture. Over-mixing at this stage can introduce too much air, leading to cracks during the baking process. After adding the egg, mix on low speed just until everything is blended. For added flavor, consider swapping out the vanilla extract for almond extract, which will give the cheesecake layer a delightful nutty undertone.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once your Brownie Cheesecake Squares have cooled and been sliced, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They often taste even better after resting for a day, as the flavors meld beautifully. If you're planning for a party, you can make these a day in advance, which allows for a stress-free game day. Just remember to dust them with powdered sugar just before serving for an extra touch of elegance.

If you're looking to impress your guests, consider serving these squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. A drizzle of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce adds a beautiful finish while enhancing the dessert's richness. For a little texture, sprinkle some chopped nuts or crushed cookies on top just before serving. These thoughtful touches can elevate the dessert experience and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make these delicious brownie cheesecake squares!

Brownie Layer

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

Cheesecake Layer

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your brownies and cheesecake layers!

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix the brownie batter

In a large bowl, combine melted butter and sugar, then mix in the eggs and vanilla. Add cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir until just combined.

Prepare cheesecake layer

In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Add the egg and mix until well incorporated.

Layer the mixtures

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, then spread the cheesecake mixture over it. Finally, dollop the remaining brownie batter on top, giving a swirl with a knife.

Bake

Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and slice

Let the brownies cool completely before lifting them out of the pan and slicing into squares.

Enjoy your delicious squares while watching the game!

Pro Tips

For best results, chill the cheesecake layer before serving to enhance its flavor and texture. You can also top with whipped cream or sprinkles for an extra festive touch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your brownies are coming out too dry, it may be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes and do the toothpick test. If it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, you’re good to go. A little error can significantly impact the texture, so adjusting baking time according to your oven’s temperament is essential.

Another common issue is the cheesecake layer sinking or cracking. This can happen if the batter is overmixed or baked at too high of a temperature. Ensure your oven is properly calibrated, and try baking at 325°F instead for a more gentle heat that can help the cheesecake set without cracking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a gluten-free option, consider replacing the all-purpose flour in the brownie layer with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This substitution maintains the rich texture of the brownies while making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be mindful that some blends may absorb more moisture, so adjust the quantity slightly if necessary.

For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. You'll find various options on the market that maintain a creamy texture. Additionally, using a dairy-free butter or coconut oil can keep the brownies moist and fudgy without compromising on taste.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up if you're hosting a larger gathering. To make a 9x13-inch pan, simply double all the ingredients. Keep in mind that baking times may increase, so start checking for doneness at the 40-minute mark. Adjust accordingly to ensure you achieve that perfect brownie texture with a smooth cheesecake layer.

If you’re looking for bite-sized treats, you can also turn this recipe into mini brownies. Pour the batter into a lined mini muffin tin and bake for about 20 minutes. Be sure to check frequently, as the smaller portions will cook faster. This are a great idea for parties, allowing guests to enjoy multiple desserts without feeling too indulgent.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make these brownies a day in advance and store them in the fridge to intensify the flavors.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, these brownie cheesecake squares freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor profile.

→ How do I prevent the cheesecake layer from cracking?

Make sure to mix your cheesecake batter gently and avoid overmixing to minimize air bubbles, which can lead to cracks.