Ingredients
For the Raspberry Sauce
- 1 cup (125g) fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Alternative Options: If raspberries aren’t available, you can substitute strawberries, blueberries, or even a store-bought berry jam (just heat it slightly to thin it out).
For the Cheesecake Topping
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/3 cup (66g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (50g), room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Alternative Options: If you prefer a tangier cheesecake layer, swap half of the cream cheese for Greek yogurt. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese.
For the Brownies
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (whole wheat or gluten-free flour can be used)
- 3/4 cup (86g) cocoa powder, sifted if lumpy
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons (196g) oil (coconut oil or vegetable oil)
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs (50g each), room temperature
Alternative Options: If you prefer a butterier taste, substitute half of the oil with melted butter. Brown sugar can be used in place of white sugar for a more caramel-like flavor.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Raspberry Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the raspberries, sugar, and vanilla extract. Let the mixture simmer for 5-8 minutes until it thickens slightly. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but not be as thick as jam. Strain the sauce through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds, then set it aside to cool.
Tip: If the sauce thickens too much, add a teaspoon of water and stir to loosen it up.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a medium bowl, use an electric hand mixer to beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Gradually increase the speed to high for a creamy texture. Reduce the speed to low and mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. Set aside.
Tip: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the cheesecake mixture.
3. Prepare the Brownie Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the oil, sugar, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, stirring just until blended. Overmixing can create dense brownies.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Tip: To test if your brownie batter is ready, make sure there are no streaks of flour. However, it’s okay if a few lumps remain—overmixing can lead to tough brownies.
4. Assemble the Brownies
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Gently spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer.
- Dollop spoonfuls of raspberry sauce on top, then use a skewer or knife to create a swirling pattern. Don’t overdo it—just a few swirls will give the best visual effect.
Tip: For more distinct swirls, drop the raspberry sauce in different areas instead of spreading it evenly across the surface.
5. Bake and Cool
- Bake for 30-35 minutes. The brownies should be slightly jiggly in the center when removed from the oven. If only the very center wobbles, they need a few more minutes.
- Let the brownies cool in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Once completely cool, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set the cheesecake layer.
- Cut into squares and enjoy.
Tip: Chilling the brownies enhances the texture, making the cheesecake layer firmer and the flavors more pronounced.
Notes
- How to Know When Brownies Are Done: A toothpick inserted 2 inches from the edge should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it’s wet with batter, bake for a few more minutes.
- Avoid Overmixing: Stir the brownie batter only until combined to keep it fudgy. Overmixing can make them dry.
- Cutting Clean Squares: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat brownie squares.
- Prevent Overbaking the Cheesecake: The cheesecake layer continues to firm up as it cools, so don’t wait for it to be fully set in the oven.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes