Caramel Cheesecake Nutella Brownies Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, luscious caramel, and the irresistible flavor of Nutella, then you’re in for a treat with this Caramel Cheesecake Nutella Brownies Recipe. This decadent creation brings together fudgy brownie layers and swirls of velvety cheesecake kissed with Nutella and caramel, resulting in a mouthwatering bite that feels like a hug in dessert form. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a weekend indulgence, these brownies will quickly become your go-to showstopper that friends and family rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Caramel Cheesecake Nutella Brownies Recipe lies in its seemingly simple but perfectly selected ingredients. Each one plays a pivotal role in crafting that dreamlike texture and rich flavor — from the deep cocoa powder giving depth, to the cream cheese adding a tangy softness, and Nutella weaving in a silky, nutty sweetness.

• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies just right without overpowering the chocolate.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and a tender crumb structure.
• ⅓ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder, unsweetened: Delivers intense chocolate flavor and a dark hue.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together while adding moisture and structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds warmth.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: Keeps the brownies soft but sturdy enough for cheesecake swirls.
• Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and brings out depth in the chocolate.
• 1 package (8 oz / 250 g) cream cheese, softened: Creates that luscious, tangy cheesecake layer.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake without making it cloying.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a rich essence to the cheesecake swirl.
• 1 egg yolk: Makes the cheesecake smooth and creamy.
• 1 cup Nutella: Half is swirled into the cheesecake layer, while the rest is used for topping or freezing dollops for extra gooey fun.

How to Make Caramel Cheesecake Nutella Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Get Ready With Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your brownies come out effortlessly. Setting up properly here saves you from any sticky mess or broken brownies later.

Step 2: Whip Up the Chocolate Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, and Dutch-processed cocoa powder. Stir them until you get a smooth, shiny mixture that hints at the rich flavor to come. This step creates the fudgy base for this recipe’s magic.

Step 3: Enrich the Batter

Add in your two large eggs along with the vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is fully combined; the batter will start to thicken slightly and turn glossy, promising a rich bite.

Step 4: Finishing Touches on the Brownie Batter

Now gently fold in the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Take care not to overmix here — just combine until you no longer see flour streaks. This helps keep the brownies tender and fudgy without becoming cakey.

Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Nutella Mixture

In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla extract, and the egg yolk until it’s silky smooth. This creamy cheesecake base will beautifully contrast the dense brownie. Next, carefully fold in half a cup of Nutella to bring that unmistakable hazelnut-hued swirl.

Step 6: Layering the Brownie and Cheesecake

Pour half of your brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Then, scoop dollops of the cheesecake mixture over this base. For an exciting extra treat, freeze half a cup of Nutella in tiny dollops on parchment separately — you’ll use these after baking.

Step 7: Add the Final Brownie Layer and Create Swirls

Pour the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake dollops, smoothing it gently. Grab a knife or skewer and swirl through the layers to create a beautiful marbled effect that’s as delightful to gaze upon as it is to eat.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop your pan into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The brownies are done when the top looks set and a toothpick inserted close to the center comes out with moist crumbs, ensuring moistness without being undercooked.

Step 9: Finish With Melted Nutella Swirls

Once out of the oven, immediately drop those frozen Nutella dollops on top. They’ll soften and melt slightly, allowing you to gently swirl them into the surface. This adds a glossy, not-too-sweet caramel-like richness that ties the entire recipe together.

Step 10: Cool and Cut

Let your brownies cool completely before slicing. This step lets the layers set perfectly and prevents a gooey mess. When you cut into these, the marbled ribbons of cheesecake and Nutella will shine, making every bite a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

How to Serve Caramel Cheesecake Nutella Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

Top these brownies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of crushed toasted hazelnuts for added crunch and visual appeal. Dollops of whipped cream paired with a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate each bite, making presentation as luscious as the flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to cut through the richness with bright, juicy notes. A glass of cold milk or a warm mug of coffee pairs wonderfully, highlighting the deep chocolate and Nutella elements in this recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, try serving these brownies in small squares topped individually with a quenelle of whipped cream and a drizzle of Nutella syrup. You can even layer the brownies in a trifle dish with whipped cream and chopped nuts for a crowd-pleasing dessert centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Caramel Cheesecake Nutella Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. The refrigeration helps maintain the cheesecake layer’s freshness without drying out the brownie base.

Freezing

Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for easy thaw-and-eat treats. These brownies freeze beautifully for up to 2 months without losing any of their buttery, gooey charm.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked warmth, warm brownies gently in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low heat oven for a few minutes. Be careful not to overheat, as this can melt the cheesecake layer excessively.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?

Yes, you can, but Dutch-processed cocoa adds a smoother flavor and darker color. If using regular cocoa, consider adding a tiny pinch of baking soda to balance the acidity.

Is it necessary to freeze the Nutella dollops before baking?

Freezing the Nutella dollops is optional but recommended because it prevents the Nutella from melting completely during baking, letting you create those lovely swirled highlights on top at the end.

Can I substitute cream cheese with another ingredient?

For best results, use cream cheese to keep the classic cheesecake texture and flavor. However, mascarpone can be a suitable substitute for a richer, creamier swirl.

How thick should I cut the brownies?

Cut them into squares about 2 inches wide to serve. This size balances richness and portion control, ensuring the perfect bite every time.

What’s the best pan size for this recipe?

An 8×8-inch baking pan is perfect to get the ideal thickness and baking time for these brownies. Using a larger pan will result in thinner brownies that bake faster.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Caramel Cheesecake Nutella Brownies Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without its decadent layers and irresistible combination of flavors. It’s one of those desserts that effortlessly impresses everyone at the table with minimal fuss. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and dive into this sweet, rich, and oh-so-satisfying treat that’s bound to become a cherished favorite in your dessert rotation.

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