Do you crave a sweet treat that packs a punch? Look no further than Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies! This dessert combines rich chocolate brownies with a creamy cheesecake layer, making every bite a delight. I’ll guide you through easy steps and simple ingredients to create this tasty dessert. Let’s dive in and make something amazing that will wow your friends and family!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Brownies
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 Milky Way bars, chopped
The brownie base is rich and fudgy. The mix of sugars gives it a sweet depth. Butter adds moisture, while eggs bind everything together. Cocoa powder gives that deep chocolate flavor. The chopped Milky Way bars melt into gooey pockets of caramel and chocolate.
Ingredients for Cheesecake Layer
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– 2 Milky Way bars, finely chopped
The cheesecake layer is smooth and creamy. Cream cheese is key to its texture. Sugar balances the creaminess, while eggs help it set. The vanilla adds warmth and flavor. Finely chopped Milky Way bars bring a sweet twist.
Additional Toppings and Presentation
Dust the top with cocoa powder or powdered sugar before serving. A drizzle of chocolate sauce enhances the look. Adding extra Milky Way pieces makes it even more tempting. This creates a beautiful dessert that tastes as good as it looks.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Brownie Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can use cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of melted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of brown sugar. Whisk until it’s smooth. Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt together. Gradually mix this dry mix into your wet ingredients. Fold in 4 chopped Milky Way bars. This will give your brownies a rich, chocolatey flavor with surprises of caramel and nougat.
Making the Cheesecake Layer
In a clean bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth. Add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until creamy. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix until smooth again. Finally, fold in 2 finely chopped Milky Way bars. This will create a creamy layer that pairs perfectly with the brownies.
Combining Layers and Baking
Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly. Next, carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer, spreading it flat. Pour the rest of the brownie batter on top. Gently swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect, mixing the layers just a bit.
Now, place it in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. Check with a toothpick; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. After baking, let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Transfer them to the fridge and chill for 2-3 hours. This helps the cheesecake set nicely. Once chilled, cut them into squares and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Best Texture
To get the perfect texture, focus on your mixing. Mix the wet ingredients well. Add the eggs one at a time. This helps create a smooth batter. When you mix the dry ingredients, don’t overdo it. Mix just until you see no flour. This keeps the brownies nice and chewy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few mistakes can ruin your brownies. First, don’t skip the chilling step. This lets the cheesecake layer set. Second, ensure your cream cheese is soft. If it’s cold, it will be hard to mix. Lastly, avoid opening the oven door too soon. This causes the brownies to sink.
Presentation Tips for Serving
To make these brownies look great, dust them with cocoa powder. You can also use powdered sugar for a sweet touch. A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds flair. For extra fun, top with Milky Way pieces. These tips will impress your guests and make your treats shine!
Variations
Gluten-Free Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies
You can make these brownies gluten-free with simple swaps. Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour. Look for a blend that works well in baking. Most brands work just fine. The rest of the ingredients stay the same. This way, everyone can enjoy these treats!
Vegan Adjustments for Brownies
To make vegan Milky Way cheesecake brownies, replace the eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water for each egg. Let it sit until it thickens. You can also use dairy-free butter and vegan cream cheese. They will keep the rich flavor without any animal products.
Flavor Variations Using Different Candy Bars
Want to mix things up? Try using other candy bars! Snickers, Reese’s, or Twix can add fun new tastes. Just chop them into small pieces like you did with the Milky Way bars. Each candy will change the flavor and texture. You can create your own unique brownie experience!
Storage Info
How to Properly Store Brownies
To keep your Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Make sure to let them cool first. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. These brownies stay tasty for up to five days at room temperature. If you live in a hot area, keep them in the fridge for extra freshness.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these brownies if you want to save some for later. First, cut them into squares. Then, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay good for up to three months. To enjoy later, thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating Tips
If you like warm brownies, reheating is easy. Just take a piece and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 10-15 seconds. Check to see if it’s warm enough for you. You can also use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F, and place the brownies on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes. Enjoy the gooey goodness!
FAQs
Can I use different types of candy bars?
Yes, you can mix it up! You can use any candy bar you like. Snickers, Twix, or Reese’s work well. Just chop them into small pieces. This change can give your brownies a fun twist. Each candy brings its own flavor. Experiment and find your favorite mix!
How can I make these brownies less sweet?
To cut down on sweetness, use less sugar. You can reduce both granulated and brown sugar by 1/4 cup. You can also use dark chocolate cocoa powder. Dark chocolate has less sugar than regular cocoa. Another option is to add a pinch of salt. This balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the cheesecake layer?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, try Greek yogurt. It has a similar texture and tangy taste. You can also use silken tofu for a dairy-free option. Blend it until smooth for the best results. These substitutes keep your cheesecake layer creamy and delicious.
How long do Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies last?
These brownies last about 4-5 days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze them. They stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving. Enjoy them at your own pace!
We explored how to make Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies in this post. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Taking care with texture and avoiding common mistakes will help you succeed. You can also customize your brownies with different candy bars or vegan options. Finally, storing and reheating them correctly keeps them fresh longer. Enjoy these brownies, and don’t be afraid to experiment!
