Who doesn’t love a cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug? These Ghost Cheesecake Brownies are the perfect blend of rich, chocolatey brownies and creamy, dreamy cheesecake. They’re easy to make, beginner-friendly, and perfect for family gatherings, Halloween fun, or a simple treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee. The marbled cheesecake layer adds a festive ghostly look that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Recipe Info:
| Category | Dessert |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 16 squares |
| Calories | ~280 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
Brownie Layer
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ teaspoon espresso powder
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step‑By‑Step Instructions
- Prep Your Pan & Oven
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch pan and line with parchment paper. - Make the Brownie Batter
Melt butter, stir in sugar and cocoa powder. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla. Fold in flour, salt, and espresso powder (if using). Stir in chocolate chips if desired. - Make the Cheesecake Layer
Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and vanilla, then beat in egg until creamy. - Assemble the Brownies
Spread ¾ of the brownie batter in the pan. Spoon cheesecake mixture on top. Drop the remaining brownie batter in small dollops over the cheesecake. Swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect. - Bake
Bake 35–40 minutes, or until edges are set and center slightly jiggles. Cool completely before cutting into squares.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Avoid Overmixing: Keeps brownies tender and cheesecake smooth.
- Check Doneness: Center should jiggle slightly; it firms up as it cools.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Recipe Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie layer.
- Berry Swirl: Drop raspberries or strawberry puree into the cheesecake layer before swirling.
- Chocolate Lover: Add chunks of dark chocolate or white chocolate chips to the cheesecake mixture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Garnish with Halloween sprinkles or edible ghost shapes for festive flair.
Conclusion
These Ghost Cheesecake Brownies are perfect for cozy nights, family treats, or a fun Halloween twist. Enjoy them fresh, share with loved ones, and watch the creamy, chocolatey goodness disappear bite by bite.