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Peppermint Cheesecake Brownies

Delightful brownies topped with a creamy peppermint cheesecake layer, perfect for any holiday gathering.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 9 squares
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Brownie Base
  • 1 cup dark chocolate Use high-quality dark chocolate for richer flavor.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Ensures a rich and moist texture.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the brownie batter.
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar Adds a hint of caramel flavor.
  • 2 large eggs Gives the brownie structure.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Provides structure to the brownie base.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Balances sweetness.
Peppermint Cheesecake Layer
  • 8 oz cream cheese Must be at room temperature for mixing.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the cheesecake layer.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour Provides structure to the cream cheese mixture.
  • 1 large egg Binds the cheesecake ingredients.
  • 1 tsp peppermint extract Defines the peppermint flavor.
Toppings
  • 1/2 cup crushed candy canes Adds a festive crunch.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a 9-inch square baking pan with overhanging parchment paper and lightly grease the paper.
Making the Brownie Batter
  1. Melt the dark chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl on half-power. Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
  2. Mix the cooled chocolate mixture with granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition until fully incorporated.
  4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gently mix in the flour and salt until just combined.
  6. Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan in an even layer.
Making the Cheesecake Layer
  1. In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, flour, egg, and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy.
  2. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter layer in the pan.
  3. Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer and swirl slightly with a knife for a marbled effect.
  4. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top for decoration.
Baking
  1. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
  2. Once baked, let brownies cool on a wire rack and top with remaining crushed candy canes.
  3. After cooling completely, lift brownies from the pan using parchment paper and cut into squares.

Notes

For the best results, use high-quality dark chocolate and ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature when mixing. Allow brownies to rest for several hours for improved flavor.