Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Raspberry Swirl Brownies are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves a combination of sweet and tart flavors. The fudgy brownie base is rich and chocolatey, while the cheesecake swirl adds a creamy, tangy layer that perfectly complements the raspberries. The vibrant swirl not only looks beautiful but also provides a burst of fruitiness with each bite. Easy to make and visually impressive, these brownies are an irresistible treat that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

Ingredients

For the Brownie Layer:

½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
⅓ cup (40g) all-purpose flour
⅓ cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ tsp salt

For the Cheesecake Swirl:

8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
⅓ cup (40g) powdered sugar
1 large egg
½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Raspberry Swirl:

½ cup fresh raspberries (or thawed frozen raspberries)
1 tsp sugar (optional, if berries are tart)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prep the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the brownies.

Make the Brownie Batter

In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until glossy and well-combined.
Sift in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then stir just until combined. Set aside.

Make the Cheesecake Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set this aside as well.

Mash the Raspberries

In a small bowl, lightly mash the raspberries with a fork. If the raspberries are too tart, add 1 tsp of sugar to sweeten them slightly. Set aside.

Assemble the Brownies

Pour most of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
Spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter.
Add dollops of the mashed raspberries on top of the cheesecake layer, followed by spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter.
Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the raspberry mixture into the cheesecake and brownie layers, creating a marbled effect.

Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few crumbs (not wet batter).
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Optional Garnish:

Top each square with a fresh raspberry for extra flair and visual appeal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 16
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Berry Variety: Use other berries like blueberries, strawberries, or blackberries for the swirl, depending on what you have on hand.
Nutty Brownies: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for extra crunch.
More Cheesecake Swirl: Double the cheesecake mixture for a thicker, creamier swirl throughout the brownies.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days for a firmer texture.
Freezing: These brownies freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature for about an hour.

FAQs

Can I use frozen raspberries?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries. Just thaw them and drain any excess moisture before using them in the recipe.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes, these brownies are perfect for make-ahead baking. They can be made the night before and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, or frozen for longer storage.

How do I get the perfect swirl effect?

To achieve the best swirl effect, don’t over-mix the raspberry topping with the cheesecake and brownie layers. A few gentle swirls with a knife or skewer will create a beautiful marbled pattern.

Can I substitute the cream cheese?

If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative like vegan cream cheese.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free. Be sure to check that all your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

Raspberry Swirl Brownies are a delicious fusion of rich chocolate and fruity raspberry with a creamy cheesecake swirl, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. With their beautiful marbled appearance and indulgent flavors, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them as a special treat, these brownies are guaranteed to impress!