Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies with Graham Cracker Bottom

Strawberry Cheesecake Brownies with Graham Cracker Crust 🍓🍫

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Experience the ultimate dessert trifecta with these decadent layered brownies! A buttery graham cracker base supports a fudgy chocolate layer, topped with creamy cheesecake swirled with strawberry jam—each bite delivers perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

Why you’ll adore this recipe:
✔ Three irresistible layers in every square
✔ Perfect balance of rich and fruity flavors
✔ Stunning presentation for special occasions
✔ Make-ahead friendly – tastes even better chilled

Ingredient Breakdown

Graham Cracker Crust

  • 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full sheets)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Fudgy Brownie Layer

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate (chopped or chips)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup cocoa powder
  • ¼ tsp salt

Strawberry Cheesecake Swirl

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup strawberry jam (or fresh puree)

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh strawberry slices
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Chocolate drizzle

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8″ pan with parchment paper.
  2. Mix crust ingredients until sandy texture forms.
  3. Press firmly into pan and bake 8-10 minutes. Cool completely.

2️⃣ Make the Brownie Batter

  1. Melt butter and chocolate (microwave or double boiler).
  2. Whisk in sugar → eggs (one at a time) → vanilla.
  3. Fold in dry ingredients until just combined.
  4. Spread over cooled crust.

3️⃣ Create Cheesecake Layer

  1. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
  2. Mix in egg and vanilla.
  3. Dollop strawberry jam over batter and swirl gently with a knife.
  4. Spread evenly over brownie layer.

4️⃣ Bake to Perfection

  • 30-35 minutes until edges pull away from pan.
  • Cool 1 hour at room temperature, then chill 2+ hours.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

  • Lift out using parchment.
  • Slice into 16 squares.
  • Garnish with fresh berries and crumbs.

Pro Tips for Success

🔥 Room temp ingredients prevent lumpy batter
🔥 Don’t overbake – centers should slightly jiggle
🔥 For cleaner cuts, use a hot knife wiped between slices
🔥 Boost strawberry flavor with freeze-dried berry powder in the jam

FAQ

Can I use frozen strawberries?

✅ Yes! Thaw and puree, reducing any excess liquid.

How long do these keep?

📅 5 days refrigerated or 3 months frozen.

Can I make these gluten-free?

🌾 Use GF graham crackers and 1:1 flour substitute.

Why did my cheesecake layer crack?

🔹 Overmixing or rapid temperature changes. Still tastes amazing!

Why This Recipe Works

The graham cracker base adds crunch against the fudgy brownie, while the strawberry-swirled cheesecake cuts through richness. It’s:

✨ Visually impressive with vibrant swirls
✨ Texturally divine – crisp, chewy, and creamy
✨ Customizable with different jams or chocolates

Perfect for: Date nights • Potlucks • Birthday treats

Serving & Presentation Ideas

🍽 Elevate your plating:

  • Dust with powdered sugar
  • Drizzle with chocolate ganache
  • Serve with vanilla bean ice cream

Nutritional Info (per serving)

Approximate values for 1/16th recipe:

  • Calories: 280
  • Carbs: 30g
  • Protein: 4g

Tag your creations #DessertLayers! Would you like a mini version of this recipe for parties? 😊

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