Irresistible Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

Introduction

Have you ever tried to combine the rich flavors of creamy cheesecake with the indulgence of brownies and the sweetness of Milky Way candy bars? If so, you know how captivating this combination can be. However, many home bakers often find the process of making layered desserts daunting. Fear not! This irresistibly delicious Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies recipe will not only simplify your baking endeavors but also leave your family and friends begging for more. Let’s dive right into it!

Ingredients List

To make your Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Brownie Base:

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free alternative)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Layer:

– 8 oz cream cheese, softened (use vegan cream cheese if needed)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

– 3-4 Milky Way bars, chopped
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Sea salt, for garnish (optional)

This ingredient list is flexible, allowing you to customize it according to your dietary preferences.

Timing

– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes

Imagine walking into your kitchen, smelling the sweet aroma of melting chocolate and warming caramel. It’s a comforting experience that can elevate any ordinary day into something special.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar, whisking until well-mixed.
3. Add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth!
4. Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Stir gently until just combined; don’t over-mix. This keeps your brownies chewy and luscious.

Step 2: Bake the Brownie Layer

1. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

1. While your brownies are baking, make the cheesecake layer. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add sugar, followed by the egg and vanilla extract. Whip until creamy and lump-free.

Step 4: Layer the Cheesecake

1. Once the brownie layer is out of the oven, pour the cheesecake mixture over the warm brownies. Spread it out evenly.
2. Add the chopped Milky Way bars on top of the cheesecake layer, gently pressing them in slightly.

Step 5: Bake Again

1. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. The cheesecake should be set but will still have a little jiggle in the center.
2. Let it cool completely in the pan before adding the caramel sauce.

Step 6: Drizzle with Caramel

1. Once the brownies have cooled, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top.
2. If desired, sprinkle a hint of sea salt on top for an added flavor contrast!

Chef’s Tips

– If using homemade caramel, consider making a batch while your brownies are baking to save time.
– Allow your brownies to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour for easier cutting.

Nutritional Information

– Calories: ~250 kcal (per serving, estimated based on 12 servings)
– Fat: 14g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Protein: 3g
– Sugars: 20g

These brownies pack a decadent punch but are best enjoyed in moderation!

Healthier Alternatives

– Reduce Sugar: Try cutting the sugar in half for the brownie base or using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
– Swap Ingredients: Replace half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter cheesecake layer.
– Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are perfect for various occasions! Serve them:

– Warm: as a cozy dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing it to melt over the layers.
– Chilled: cut into squares for a picnic treat.
– Festive: Top with whipped cream and seasonal berries for a special celebration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to dense brownies. Stir until just combined!
2. Not Letting Them Cool: Cutting brownies while warm often results in a gooey mess. Patience is key!
3. Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in your cheesecake layer.

Storing Tips

– Room Temperature: These brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Refrigeration: To keep them fresh for a week, store them in the fridge.
– Freezing: Wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This irresistible Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies recipe combines creamy cheesecake, fudgy brownies, and a touch of caramel goodness to create a delightful dessert. With simple steps and a few tips, you can achieve bakery-quality results at home. Have fun experimenting, and don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments!

FAQs

Can I use other candy bars for this recipe?

Absolutely! Snickers, Twix, or even crushed Oreos will work beautifully as substitutes.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap regular flour with a gluten-free alternative, and you’re all set.

How long do these brownies last?

When stored correctly, they’ll last up to a week in the fridge or three months in the freezer.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare them a day in advance. Just cover them and keep them in the fridge until serving.

What’s the best way to cut chewy brownies?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping it clean after each cut for clean edges.

Ready to get baking? Dive into this delectable recipe and savor every bite! Don’t forget to subscribe for more charming recipes and leave a review below. Happy baking!