Description

Mocha Cheesecake Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownie layers infused with espresso powder and cocoa, layered with a creamy white chocolate studded cheesecake filling. These decadent treats are perfect for coffee and chocolate lovers craving a luscious and indulgent dessert with a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Batter

1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter
8 ounces (228g) coarsely chopped quality semi-sweet chocolate
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
3 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup + 2 Tablespoons (78g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
2 Tablespoons (10g) natural unsweetened or dutch-process cocoa powder
2 teaspoons espresso powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1/2 cup (90g) mini or regular size semi-sweet chocolate chips (for topping)

Cheesecake Batter

8 ounces (226g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup (180g) white chocolate chips

Instructions

Make the brownie batter: Melt the butter and chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes until smooth. Alternatively, melt them in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second increments, stirring in between until melted. Remove from heat and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Let cool slightly for 10 minutes.
Prepare the oven and pan: Adjust the oven rack to the lower third position and preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, covering the bottom and sides with an overhang for easy removal. Set aside.
Mix the brownie ingredients: Whisk the granulated sugar into the cooled chocolate and butter mixture. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract. Gently fold in the flour, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and salt until just combined. Set aside the brownie batter.
Make the cheesecake batter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a handheld or stand mixer on high speed for 1 minute until smooth and creamy. Reduce speed to medium-high and add sugar, mixing until combined. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until incorporated. Gently fold in the white chocolate chips. Set aside.
Assemble the brownies: Spread about half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan, pressing it into all corners. Spread all of the cheesecake batter evenly over the brownie layer. Top with the remaining brownie batter, spreading it as evenly as possible. It’s okay if some cheesecake swirls appear on top or corners are not fully covered. Sprinkle optional chocolate chips over the top if using.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 38 minutes. The brownies are done when they start to pull away from the edges of the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Carefully monitor after 30 minutes as oven temperatures vary.
Cool and chill: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for 45 minutes. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 1 day to ensure the cheesecake layer is fully set and cold before slicing.
Serve: Use the parchment overhang to lift the brownies from the pan. Cut into neat squares using a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for the best presentation. Enjoy chilled.

Notes

Using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate improves the depth of flavor in the brownie layers.
Espresso powder enhances the mocha taste but can be omitted or substituted with instant coffee granules if unavailable.
The cream cheese must be fully softened to ensure a smooth cheesecake layer without lumps.
Chilling the brownies well before cutting helps achieve clean, neat slices and maintains the cheesecake texture.
Optional chocolate chips on top add extra chocolate bursts for texture and flavor.
Store leftover brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for best taste and texture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 38 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: mocha cheesecake brownies, chocolate brownies, cream cheese brownies, espresso brownies, white chocolate cheesecake brownies, mocha dessert, baked brownies, coffee flavored brownies