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 is a perfect blend of rich chocolate brownie, creamy cheesecake, and decadent caramel. It’s a family favorite in my home, and I love making it for special occasions or even just a cozy night in. The best part? They’re easy to whip up and always bring smiles around the table.

These brownies are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any gathering, from birthday parties to potlucks or even just a sweet treat during the week. Trust me, once you serve these brownies, you’ll be asked for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate, cheesecake, and caramel is simply irresistible!
• Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a baking expert to create this dessert. Just follow the steps and enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves brownies! This recipe is perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead: These brownies can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for those unexpected guests.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe with different toppings or mix-ins based on your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what 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 Drizzle

• 1 cup caramel candies
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Variations

One of the great things about these Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies is how flexible they are! Here are some fun variations you might like to try:

• Add Nuts: Chop up some walnuts or pecans for added crunch in the brownie base.
• Use Different Candies: Try swapping out the caramel candies for chocolate or peanut butter chips for a unique twist.
• Make it Minty: Add a few drops of peppermint extract into the cheesecake layer for a refreshing flavor.
• Top with Whipped Cream: Serve these brownies with a dollop of whipped cream or non-dairy topping for an extra creamy touch.

How to Make Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your brownies bake evenly from the start. Also, line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper—this will make it easy to lift out the brownies later.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Melt your butter in a microwave-safe bowl by microwaving it in 30-second intervals. Be sure to let it cool slightly after melting; this helps you avoid cooking your eggs when you mix everything together.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until combined. Then slowly pour in that melted butter while whisking continuously. This creates a smooth mixture that forms the base of your brownie batter.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually fold this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until just combined—overmixing could lead to tough brownies!

Step 5: Pour into Pan

Pour your brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly using a spatula. This forms a rich base that will hold all that delicious cheesecake goodness on top.

Step 6: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

Beat together cream cheese, sugar, one egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Spoon dollops of this mixture over your brownie batter—this will give that delightful cheesecake swirl we love!

Step 7: Melt Caramel Candies

In another microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel candies with heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second bursts while stirring until melted and smooth. This luscious caramel drizzle will take your brownies over the top!

Step 8: Swirl It Together

Drizzle that beautiful melted caramel over the cheesecake layer and use a knife to gently swirl it together. Be careful not to mix too much; we want those lovely swirls visible!

Step 9: Bake

Place your pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when set at the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 10: Cool & Chill

Let your brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before transferring them to the fridge. Chilling them for at least two hours helps them firm up nicely so you can cut them into perfect squares.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies! They truly are an indulgent treat that everyone will love.

Pro Tips for Making Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Baking can be a wonderful adventure, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure your Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your eggs and cream cheese to room temperature helps them blend more smoothly into the batter, resulting in a creamy cheesecake layer without lumps.

• Don’t overmix the brownie batter: Mixing just until combined helps to keep the brownies fudgy and moist. Overmixing can lead to a cakey texture, which we want to avoid for this rich dessert.

• Chill before cutting: Allowing the brownies to cool completely and then refrigerating them for a couple of hours not only makes them easier to cut but also enhances the flavors as they meld together.

• Experiment with caramel flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using flavored caramel candies, such as sea salt or chocolate caramel. This can add an exciting twist to the overall taste of your brownies.

• Check for doneness carefully: Since ovens vary, start checking your brownies a few minutes before the recommended baking time. They should be set at the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center—this ensures a fudgy texture once cooled.

How to Serve Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Presenting your Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies in an inviting way will make them even more tempting! Here are some creative ideas to serve up this delightful dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich brownies.
• Chocolate shavings: Sprinkling chocolate shavings on top gives an elegant touch and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Sea salt flakes: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving can elevate the sweetness of the caramel and balance it beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the richness of the brownies and provides a refreshing contrast.
• Fresh berries: Serving fresh raspberries or strawberries alongside adds a burst of tartness that cuts through the sweetness, making each bite more balanced.
• Coffee or espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso enhances the flavors of chocolate and caramel while offering a cozy element to your dessert experience.
• Mint tea: For those who prefer something lighter, mint tea serves as a refreshing accompaniment that cleanses the palate after each rich bite.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dessert and all its accompanying elements—your friends and family are sure to love it!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them for later indulgence, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the brownies to cool completely before storing.
• Cut into squares and place them in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each brownie square tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• For a warm treat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place brownies on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual squares for about 15-20 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious brownies!

How do I make Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies gluten-free?

You can easily make these brownies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose works well for baking.

Can I use other types of caramel candies in Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different brands or types of caramel candies. Just ensure they melt well; soft caramels typically work best.

How long do Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies last?

When stored properly, these brownies can last at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for about a week.

Can I add nuts to my Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies?

Yes! If you enjoy a little crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans either into the brownie batter or as a topping before baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these scrumptious Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies! They bring together rich chocolatey goodness, creamy cheesecake, and delightful caramel swirls—truly a dessert worth savoring. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or treating yourself after a long day, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy baking!