Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s sure to impress, look no further than these Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies! This recipe has become one of my all-time favorites because it combines three beloved treats into one luscious bite. The rich chocolate brownie base, creamy cheesecake layer, and gooey caramel come together in perfect harmony. Trust me, once you try these brownies, they’ll quickly become your go-to indulgence for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You can have these decadent brownies ready in just a few hours, making them perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth or sharing with friends. Let’s dive into why you’re going to love making these Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate, cheesecake, and caramel creates a dessert that’s simply out of this world!
• Simple Preparation: With just a few easy steps, you’ll be on your way to baking like a pro.
• Family-Friendly Treat: Kids and adults alike will adore these brownies, making them ideal for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These brownies can be made in advance and stored in the fridge, so they’re always ready to impress last-minute guests.
• Customizable Delight: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or toppings for a personal touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple and wholesome ingredients that make these Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies so special. You probably have many of them already in your pantry!

For the Brownie Base

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Layer

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Drizzle

• 1 cup caramel candies
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Variations

One of the best parts about baking is getting creative! Here are some fun variations you can try with this recipe.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch in your brownies.
• Incorporate chocolate chips: Swirling in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips can elevate the chocolate flavor even further.
• Experiment with toppings: Drizzle melted chocolate on top after cooling for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Mix-in fruit: Add some sliced bananas or raspberries to the cheesecake layer for a fruity twist.

How to Make Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential as it ensures that your brownies bake evenly. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This will make it super easy to lift your finished brownies out later!

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second intervals. Be sure to let it cool slightly before adding it to other ingredients. This helps prevent cooking the eggs when you mix everything together.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually pour in the melted butter while whisking continuously. This creates a smooth batter that’s full of flavor.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture until just combined—be careful not to overmix!

Step 5: Pour and Spread

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom. This will ensure every bite has that delicious brownie goodness.

Step 6: Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture

In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spoon dollops of this mixture onto the brownie batter for that signature cheesecake swirl.

Step 7: Melt Caramel Candies

Combine caramel candies and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in short intervals until melted and smooth. Stirring between intervals is key here—this gives you that lovely drizzling consistency!

Step 8: Swirl It All Together

Drizzle your melted caramel over the cheesecake layer and use a knife to gently swirl it together. This adds beautiful marbling that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 9: Bake

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You want set edges with a slightly jiggly center—this means they’ll be wonderfully fudgy!

Step 10: Cool and Refrigerate

Let your brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before refrigerating them for at least two hours. This chilling time helps them firm up nicely for cutting into perfect squares.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies! Get ready for smiles all around as everyone digs into this delicious treat!

Pro Tips for Making Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Making these brownies is a delightful journey, and with a few handy tips, you’ll create a masterpiece that will impress everyone!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your cream cheese and eggs are at room temperature helps them blend smoothly into the batter, resulting in a creamy cheesecake layer that’s free of lumps.

• Don’t overmix the brownie batter: Mixing just until combined will keep your brownies fudgy and rich. Overmixing can introduce air into the batter, leading to a cake-like texture instead of dense, chewy brownies.

• Cool the brownies completely before cutting: Allowing them to cool helps set the layers and makes it easier to achieve clean cuts. Refrigerating them for a couple of hours enhances the flavor and texture too!

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or even sea salt on top before baking for an extra touch. This adds depth to the flavor profile and can satisfy different taste preferences.

How to Serve Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

These Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are not only delicious but also visually stunning! Here are some serving ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light contrast to the richness of the brownies.
• Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top for an elegant touch that enhances both appearance and flavor.
• Caramel Drizzle: A little extra caramel sauce drizzled over the top before serving adds sweetness and looks beautiful.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing with brownies, vanilla ice cream offers a creamy complement that balances out the richness perfectly.
• Fresh Berries: Serving with fresh raspberries or strawberries adds a burst of fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet brownies.
• Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso enhances the chocolate flavor of the brownies while adding a cozy element to your dessert experience.
• Milkshake: For an indulgent twist, pair these brownies with a thick milkshake—chocolate or caramel flavors work wonderfully!

Now you’re all set to whip up these heavenly Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies and impress your friends and family! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time and have a sweet treat ready when you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing them.

Freezing

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe container or bag to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply take out the desired amount of brownies and let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
• If you prefer warm brownies, microwave them on a microwave-safe plate in 10-15 second intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious treats!

Can I make Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies without cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This will still give you that creamy layer while keeping it suitable for your dietary preferences.

How do I store Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies?

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly.

Can I use different types of caramel for my brownies?

Absolutely! You can use any variety of soft caramel candies. Just ensure they melt smoothly when combined with heavy cream.

How long do Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies last?

When stored properly, these brownies can last up to a week in the refrigerator or about three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these decadent Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies as much as I do! They’re truly special with their rich chocolate flavor, creamy cheesecake layer, and gooey caramel drizzle. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, these brownies are sure to impress. Happy baking!