Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with these decadent Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies. This show-stopping treat combines the rich fudginess of chocolate brownies with a velvety cream cheese layer and luxurious caramel swirls that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are the perfect fusion of three beloved desserts in one incredible bite. The dense, chocolatey brownie base provides the perfect foundation for the smooth, tangy cheesecake layer, while the golden caramel adds that signature Milky Way flavor we all crave. What makes this recipe truly special is how the flavors meld together during baking, creating distinct layers that complement each other beautifully.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, bringing dessert to a potluck, or simply treating your family to something extraordinary, these brownies deliver professional bakery-quality results right from your home kitchen. The combination of textures – from the fudgy brownie to the creamy cheesecake and the gooey caramel – creates an unforgettable dessert experience that appeals to both chocolate lovers and cheesecake enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
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 Swirl:
- 1 cup caramel candies
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
How to Make Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare Your Pan and Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or cooking spray.
Make the Brownie Batter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter completely. Stir in the granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined – don’t overmix.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
Create the Caramel Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel candies and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the caramels are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
Assemble the Brownies: Spread two-thirds of the brownie batter evenly in the prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer, then gently spread it out, leaving some areas uncovered for a marbled effect. Drop the remaining brownie batter in dollops over the cheesecake layer. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top, then use a knife to create beautiful swirl patterns throughout.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly. The top should be lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the brownie portions should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting. For best results, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Helpful Tips:
Ensure your cream cheese is completely softened before mixing to avoid lumps in your cheesecake layer. Leave it at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or soften it quickly by microwaving in 15-second intervals.
When melting the caramel candies, add the heavy cream gradually if the mixture seems too thick. The consistency should be pourable but not too thin, as it needs to hold its swirl pattern during baking.
Don’t overbake these brownies – they’ll continue cooking slightly as they cool, and overbaking will result in a dry texture rather than the fudgy consistency you want.
For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped clean between each cut. This prevents the layers from sticking to the knife and ensures beautiful, distinct layers in each piece.
Details:
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Bake Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours (including cooling time)
Servings: 24 brownies
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
The key to perfect Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies lies in the layering technique and temperature control. The brownie base should be rich and fudgy, providing a sturdy foundation for the delicate cheesecake layer. The caramel component adds both flavor and visual appeal, creating those signature swirls that make each piece unique.
Notes:
For an extra indulgent touch, you can add chopped Milky Way candy bars to the brownie batter before baking. Use about 1 cup of chopped candy, folded in just before spreading the batter in the pan.
If you prefer a more pronounced caramel flavor, reserve some of the caramel sauce to drizzle over individual pieces when serving. Store any leftover caramel sauce in the refrigerator for up to one week.
These brownies can be made up to three days in advance, making them perfect for party planning. The flavors actually improve after a day or two as they meld together.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use homemade caramel instead of caramel candies? Absolutely! If you have homemade caramel sauce, use about 3/4 cup and ensure it’s not too thin. If it’s very thick, warm it slightly to make it easier to swirl.
Why is my cheesecake layer cracking? Cracks usually occur from overbaking or temperature shock. Make sure your oven temperature is accurate, and don’t overbake. The center should still have a slight jiggle when done.
Can I freeze these brownies? Yes, these brownies freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
How do I know when they’re done baking? The brownies are done when the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly, and a toothpick inserted into the brownie portions comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I make these in a different pan size? For an 8×8-inch pan, reduce the baking time to 25-30 minutes and check for doneness earlier. For a 9×9-inch pan, bake for 30-35 minutes.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cheesecake layer requires refrigeration, so these should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
For serving, you can bring them to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes if you prefer them less chilled, though many people enjoy them straight from the refrigerator.
To freeze, cut into individual pieces and wrap each brownie in plastic wrap. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Conclusion:
These Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies represent the perfect marriage of three classic desserts, creating something truly extraordinary. The rich chocolate brownie base, creamy cheesecake middle, and luscious caramel swirls combine to deliver a dessert that’s both visually stunning and incredibly delicious.
What makes this recipe special is its ability to satisfy multiple dessert cravings in one incredible bite. The contrast of textures and flavors creates a complex, satisfying treat that will impress guests and family members alike. Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone looking to try something new, this recipe provides clear instructions and helpful tips to ensure success.
The next time you want to create something truly memorable in the kitchen, give these Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies a try. They’re perfect for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or whenever you want to treat yourself and others to something absolutely delicious. Once you taste these incredible brownies, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
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