Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Luscious Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe for Sweet Lovers

Decadent chocolate brownies meet creamy cheesecake in this irresistible strawberry cheesecake brownies recipe that promises pure indulgence.

Rich, fudgy layers meld together with tangy cream cheese and vibrant strawberry swirls.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of intense chocolate and bright fruity notes.

The dessert combines two classic favorites into one stunning treat that looks as incredible as it tastes.

Bakers of all skill levels can master this delightful recipe with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques.

Swirled with love and bursting with flavor, these brownies will become your new go-to dessert for any celebration.

Prepare to wow everyone with this show-stopping sweet sensation.

Why Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Are Worth the Hype

  • Crafted with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe welcomes bakers of all skill levels to create a delectable dessert without stress.
  • Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just because you want a sweet treat, these strawberry cheesecake brownies bring joy to any occasion with their crowd-pleasing combination of flavors.
  • Easily adapt the recipe by adjusting frosting thickness or experimenting with different cookie crumbs, giving you the freedom to make this dessert uniquely yours.
  • Enjoy the rich, decadent layers of chocolatey brownie, creamy cheesecake frosting, and crunchy cookie crumble that create a mouthwatering symphony of textures and tastes.

Strawberry Cheesecake Brownie Ingredients to Gather

Base Ingredients:
  • Strawberry Cake Mix: A convenient base that provides strawberry flavor and structure to the brownies.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness to the brownie base.
  • Butter: Provides moisture and enhances the overall flavor of the brownies.
  • Strawberry Gelatin: Intensifies the strawberry flavor and adds a vibrant color.
Frosting Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a smooth and creamy texture for the frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps thicken the frosting.
  • Vanilla: Adds a classic sweet flavor to the cream cheese frosting.
  • Heavy Cream: Helps achieve a light and fluffy frosting consistency.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Golden Oreos, Melted Butter: Together create a crumbly, sweet topping with a crunchy texture.
  • Additional Strawberry Gelatin: Boosts the strawberry flavor in the crumble topping.

How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies from Scratch

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing edges to extend beyond the pan sides.

Lightly spray the paper with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Create Brownie Base

In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
  • Melted butter
  • Eggs
  • Strawberry cake mix
  • Strawberry gelatin

Mix thoroughly until a thick batter forms.

Use a rubber spatula to spread the batter evenly across the prepared pan, ensuring a smooth and consistent layer.

Step 3: Bake Brownie Foundation

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.

The brownies will slightly puff up and appear set when fully cooked.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Whip Creamy Frosting

Using an electric mixer, blend softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and heavy cream, whipping until the frosting becomes light and fluffy.

For a lighter consistency, add an extra splash of cream.

Step 5: Apply Frosting Layer

Generously spread the prepared cream cheese frosting over the completely cooled brownie base, creating an even and luxurious coating.

Step 6: Develop Crumble Topping

In a food processor, pulse Golden Oreo cookies into crumbs, maintaining some larger chunks for interesting texture.

Sprinkle remaining strawberry gelatin over the cookie crumbs, then drizzle melted butter.

Pulse briefly to combine while preserving a crumbly consistency.

Step 7: Finish and Chill

Evenly distribute the crumble mixture over the frosted brownies, gently pressing to help it adhere.

Refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld together.

Slice and serve chilled for maximum enjoyment.

Tips to Nail That Swirled Cheesecake Top

  • Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before mixing to ensure a smooth, lump-free frosting that spreads like a dream.
  • Cool brownies completely before frosting to maintain a crisp texture and prevent the base from becoming mushy or wet.
  • Leave some larger Oreo chunks when processing to create an interesting, crunchy topping that adds delightful contrast to the creamy frosting.
  • Adjust powdered sugar gradually while making frosting, tasting as you go to achieve your preferred sweetness without overwhelming the delicate strawberry flavor.
  • Wipe your knife with a warm, damp cloth between each slice to get clean, picture-perfect brownie squares that showcase beautiful layers.

How to Store and Reheat Brownies with Ease

  • Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain the crumble's texture.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve the best taste and texture.
  • Keep at room temperature for 1-2 days in a sealed container, but refrigeration is recommended to maintain freshness due to cream cheese frosting.
  • Gently warm individual portions in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to prevent the frosting from melting or becoming runny.

Sweet Pairings for Cheesecake Brownies

  • Elevate Flavor Harmony: Strawberry Cheesecake Brownie Pairings
  • Sip Sweet Rosé Wine: A delicate pink rosé wine complements the rich strawberry and chocolate notes, cutting through the dessert's sweetness with its crisp, light profile.
  • Brew Fresh Strawberry Tea: A homemade strawberry-infused herbal tea enhances the fruity undertones, creating a refreshing counterpoint to the dense, creamy brownie.
  • Serve Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Scoop cold, creamy vanilla bean ice cream alongside the brownies for a classic temperature and flavor contrast that highlights the dessert's decadent texture.
  • Garnish with Fresh Mint: Sprinkle chopped fresh mint leaves on top to add a bright, herbal note that lifts the heavy sweetness and provides a palate-cleansing touch.

Flavor Ideas to Customize Your Cheesecake Brownies

  • Gluten-Free Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies: Replace strawberry cake mix with gluten-free cake mix and use gluten-free Golden Oreos for the crumble. Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Dairy-Free Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies: Swap cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and plant-based butter substitutes. Select vegan vanilla extract to maintain authentic flavor.
  • Reduced Sugar Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies: Substitute powdered sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia blend. Decrease strawberry gelatin amount and use sugar-free cake mix. Choose low-fat cream cheese to reduce overall calorie content.
  • Keto-Friendly Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies: Create almond flour-based brownie base. Replace cake mix with low-carb alternative. Use sugar-free gelatin and erythritol for sweetening. Select full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for ketogenic macronutrient profile.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, you can substitute the strawberry cake mix with other flavors like vanilla or white cake mix. The texture and taste will slightly change, but the overall recipe remains similar.

  • Do I need a food processor for the crumble?

No, you can crush the Golden Oreos using a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. Just place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush until you get the desired crumb consistency.

  • What if I don't have strawberry gelatin?

You can skip the strawberry gelatin or use another fruit-flavored gelatin. If omitting, the strawberry flavor will be less intense, but the brownies will still taste delicious.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free cake mix, gluten-free Golden Oreos (or similar cookies), and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free. The recipe can be adapted for gluten-sensitive individuals.

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Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies Recipe


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4.8 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Sinful strawberry cheesecake brownies blend rich chocolate with creamy cheesecake swirls, creating a dessert that dances between indulgence and pure bliss. Each bite promises a perfect harmony of fudgy brownie base and tangy strawberry cheesecake that leaves you craving more.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 box strawberry cake mix
  • 2 large eggs
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) block cream cheese, softened
  • 20 Golden Oreos, about 1/2 standard package

Butter and Cream Components:

  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) salted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup (57 grams) salted butter, softened
  • 4 tablespoons (57 grams) salted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tablespoons heavy cream

Flavor and Gelatin Enhancers:

  • 2 tablespoons strawberry gelatin
  • 4 tablespoons strawberry gelatin, remaining amount
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare an 8×8 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing overhang for easy removal. Lightly coat the paper with non-stick spray.
  2. Create the brownie base by mixing melted butter, eggs, strawberry cake mix, and strawberry gelatin in a medium bowl. The consistency will be thick. Carefully spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan using a rubber spatula.
  3. Bake for 25 minutes until the brownies puff slightly and appear set. Allow to cool completely before proceeding with frosting.
  4. Craft the cream cheese frosting by whipping softened cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and heavy cream, beating until light and fluffy. Adjust cream for desired consistency.
  5. Generously apply the frosting over the completely cooled brownies.
  6. Prepare the crumble topping by pulsing Golden Oreos in a food processor, leaving some larger chunks for texture. Sprinkle remaining strawberry gelatin over the cookie crumbs, then drizzle melted butter. Pulse briefly to combine while maintaining a crumbly texture.
  7. Distribute the crumble mixture evenly across the frosted brownies, gently pressing to ensure adherence. Refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the layers to set completely.

Notes

  • Adjust the powdered sugar in the frosting to match your preferred level of sweetness, tasting as you go for perfect balance.
  • Let brownies cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure a clean, smooth finish.
  • Swap strawberry cake mix with gluten-free cake mix and use gluten-free Oreos for a celiac-friendly version.
  • These brownies can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld and develop more intensity.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Developing accessible single-serving recipes, Food writing and content creation, Plant-based and allergen-friendly cooking, Culinary education and workshop facilitation

Education

​Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)
Diploma in Culinary Arts

Specialized in plant-based cooking and sustainable kitchen practices.​

Portland Community College
Certificate in Food Writing and Media

Focused on recipe writing, food photography, and digital content creation.​


Clara’s food journey began with a curiosity for color, texture, and ingredients pulled straight from the garden. Her background in plant-forward cooking and creative writing gives her a unique edge – she makes healthy, flavorful food feel inviting, not intimidating.
She specializes in meals that work for busy lives and different diets, all without sacrificing taste. Clara’s voice comes through in every recipe she writes – clear, kind, and encouraging.

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