Description
These Matcha Cheesecake Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic chocolate brownies with a smooth, subtly earthy matcha cheesecake swirl. The delightful marbling and the unique flavor profile make these brownies a decadent treat perfect for parties or a special dessert craving.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 blend)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (90g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (optional)
Matcha Cheesecake Swirl
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon (10g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon (7g) culinary-grade matcha powder
- 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons reserved brownie batter (for swirl)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch (20cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting of the brownies later.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy, about 1 minute.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Whisk in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gently stir just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: If using, fold in the semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips evenly into the batter.
- Reserve Batter for Swirl: Scoop out 2 tablespoons of the brownie batter and set aside; this will be used later for the marble swirl.
- Spread Brownie Batter: Pour and spread the remaining brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Prepare Cheesecake Batter: In a clean bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Beat in the egg, then add flour, matcha powder, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and has an even green color.
- Layer Cheesecake Batter: Pour the matcha cheesecake batter over the brownie layer and gently spread it evenly to the edges.
- Add Reserved Brownie Batter: Dollop the reserved 2 tablespoons of brownie batter in small spoonfuls on top of the cheesecake layer.
- Create Marble Swirl: Using a toothpick or skewer, swirl the two batters together to create a beautiful marbled effect throughout the cheesecake layer.
- Bake: Place the pan in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 32-38 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly wobbly but not liquid.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Chill: Transfer the cooled brownies to the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheesecake layer to set fully.
- Slice and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Slice with a hot, damp knife for clean, defined layers and serve.
Notes
- Using room temperature eggs helps ensure a smooth batter with better incorporation.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free 1:1 flour blend.
- Chilling the brownies overnight improves the texture and enhances the marbled design.
- Use a high-quality culinary-grade matcha powder for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- For cleaner slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry before each cut.
- Optional chocolate chips add extra bursts of chocolate but can be omitted if preferred.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 38 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: matcha brownies, cheesecake brownies, marble brownies, matcha dessert, chocolate brownies, baked dessert
