Caramel Turtle Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
These Decadent Caramel Turtle Cheesecake Brownies combine rich, fudgy brownies with a creamy cheesecake layer, luscious caramel swirls, melted chocolate, and toasted pecans. This indulgent dessert offers a perfect balance of chocolate, caramel, and nutty flavors in every bite, ideal for special occasions or satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 16 brownies (approximately 2x2 inch pieces)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Brownie Layer
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 3/4 cup thick caramel sauce
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
- 1 cup pecans, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy removal of the brownies.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Add 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then stir until the mixture is smooth. Next, stir in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt just until combined to form the brownie batter.
- Prepare Cheesecake Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 1/2 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Layer Brownie Batter: Spread the prepared brownie batter evenly into the lined baking pan to create a uniform base layer.
- Top with Cheesecake Layer: Carefully spread the creamy cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer, smoothing it out evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Add Caramel Swirls: Drizzle the thick caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer. Use a knife to gently swirl the caramel through the cheesecake for a marbled effect, taking care not to overmix.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly soft when gently touched.
- Cool and Add Toppings: Allow the baked brownies to cool completely at room temperature. Then drizzle the melted semi-sweet chocolate over the top and sprinkle generously with the toasted pecans.
- Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the caramel turtle cheesecake brownies for at least 2 hours to let them set fully before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For best results, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Make sure to toast the pecans lightly in a dry pan until fragrant to enhance their flavor.
- The caramel sauce can be homemade or store-bought; use a thick caramel for better swirls.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.
- Refrigeration is important to help the cheesecake layer firm up and improve slicing.
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred.
