Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies

Looking for a dessert that brings together the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy tang of cheesecake and the irresistible caramel and nougat flavors of Milky Way candy bars? Meet your new favorite treat: Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies. These delightful bars combine layers of luscious chocolate brownie, swirled cheesecake, and chunks of Milky Way candy that melt perfectly into every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something indulgent, this recipe promises a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something truly magical about the fusion of brownies and cheesecake, but adding Milky Way candy bars into the mix takes these brownies to a whole new level. The combination of creamy cheesecake and gooey caramel with dense chocolate brownie creates a symphony of textures and flavors. Plus, the chunks of Milky Way bars embedded inside give every bite a surprise of caramel and nougat that’s just heavenly.

If you’re a fan of rich desserts like the Decadent Chocolate Mousse Cake, this recipe will hit all the right notes for you. It’s decadent, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. The recipe uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand, making it an accessible and rewarding bake.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 cup chopped Milky Way candy bars
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

How To Make Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking. This will ensure your Milky Way cheesecake brownies come out cleanly and in perfect shape.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 2 cups granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Beat in the 4 large eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your brownies tough.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

In another bowl, beat together 1 cup softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add 1/4 cup milk and mix well to create a pourable cheesecake batter.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake batter over the brownie layer, then gently swirl it with a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect. Sprinkle half of the chopped Milky Way candy bars and 1/4 cup chocolate chips over the swirled layer.

Next, spread the remaining brownie batter over the swirled cheesecake layer. Top with the rest of the chopped Milky Way bars and chocolate chips, pressing them slightly into the batter.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The cheesecake swirls will be set but still creamy.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the Milky Way cheesecake brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper edges and cut into squares. Enjoy the delightful combination of fudgy brownie, creamy cheesecake, and gooey Milky Way candy in every bite!

Expert Tips

• Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Don’t overmix the brownie batter once the flour is added to keep your brownies tender.
• Use a sharp knife to swirl the cheesecake layer gently—too much swirling can blend the layers together.
• Press the candy bar chunks lightly into the batter to prevent them from burning or sticking out too much.
• For even baking, rotate your pan halfway through the baking time.
• If you want to make these brownies extra special, try topping them with a drizzle of caramel sauce after baking.
• This recipe pairs perfectly with a good cheesecake stuffed chocolate chip cookies for a decadent dessert spread.

Variations and Customizations

• Different Candy Bars: Swap Milky Way bars for your favorite candy bars like Snickers or Twix for a unique twist.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the brownie batter for crunch and extra flavor.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Add dollops of peanut butter to the cheesecake layer before swirling for a peanut butter chocolate combo.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes to make this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets.
• Mini Brownies: Bake in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats perfect for parties.

How to Store Leftovers

Store your leftover Milky Way cheesecake brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for that just-baked feel.

FAQ

Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar for the cheesecake layer?

Powdered sugar is preferred because it dissolves smoothly into the cream cheese, giving the cheesecake layer a silky texture. Using granulated sugar may result in a grainier texture, but you can try it if that’s what you have on hand.

What if I don’t have Milky Way bars? Can I substitute with something else?

Absolutely! You can substitute with other caramel-filled chocolate bars like Snickers or Twix, or even use plain chocolate chunks or caramel bits for a similar effect.

How do I get that perfect cheesecake swirl without mixing the layers too much?

Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake batter over the brownie layer and use a thin knife or toothpick to gently swirl in a figure-eight motion. Avoid over-stirring to keep distinct layers.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes! These brownies actually taste better after being refrigerated for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

Milky Way cheesecake brownies combine the best of all worlds—the rich, fudgy texture of brownies, the creamy tang of cheesecake, and the sweet caramel and nougat surprise of Milky Way candy bars. This recipe is simple to follow and yields a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these brownies are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave everyone asking for seconds. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and dive into the delicious world of Milky Way cheesecake brownies today!

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