Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent dessert that combines the rich, fudgy texture of a brownie, the creamy smoothness of cheesecake, and the irresistible allure of caramel. Welcome to the world of Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies! These indulgent treats are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that promise to captivate your taste buds. Perfect for special occasions or when you need a sweet pick-me-up, these brownies are not just a dessert; they are an experience. In this article, we’ll guide you through crafting these layered wonders, ensuring you achieve that perfect chocolatey caramel bliss.
**Recipe**
Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are a multi-layered dessert that exudes luxury in every bite. The base layer is a rich, moist brownie, providing a firm foundation for the luscious cheesecake layer. A ribbon of caramel sauce swirls through the cheesecake, adding a buttery sweetness that complements the chocolate. Topped with chunks of Milky Way bars and an additional caramel drizzle, these brownies are a symphony of flavors that will leave anyone who tastes them asking for more.
**Ingredients**
For the Brownie Layer:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
For the Cheesecake Layer:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Layer:
– 1/3 cup thick caramel sauce or melted soft caramels
– 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (to thin if needed)
For Topping:
– Chopped Milky Way bars
– Extra caramel drizzle
**Directions/Instructions**
1. **Preparation**: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. **Brownie Layer**: In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar, mixing until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth. Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder, and mix until a thick batter forms. Spread about two-thirds of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
3. **Cheesecake Layer**: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the granulated sugar until light and creamy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Carefully pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer, spreading it evenly.
4. **Caramel Swirl**: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer. Using a knife, gently swirl the caramel into the cheesecake mixture to create a marbled effect.
5. **Top Layer**: Drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter over the top of the cheesecake and caramel layers, and again use a knife to swirl gently for a marbled effect. Sprinkle the chopped Milky Way bars over the top, pressing them lightly into the batter.
6. **Baking**: Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges start to pull away from the pan.
7. **Cooling and Serving**: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate for 1–2 hours to set the layers. Before serving, cut into squares using a warm knife for clean edges. If desired, drizzle extra caramel over each piece and garnish with additional Milky Way pieces. For a touch of sophistication, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel drizzle.
**FAQ**
**Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?**
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly for this recipe. If it’s too thick, thin it with a bit of heavy cream.
**Can these brownies be made ahead of time?**
Absolutely! These brownies can be made a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, and they will be delicious and ready to serve.
**What can I do if I don’t have Milky Way bars?**
Feel free to substitute with another caramel-filled chocolate bar like Snickers or Twix. The flavors will be slightly different but still delightful.
**Can I freeze these brownies?**
Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
**Conclusion**
Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are a testament to the magic that happens when you combine rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and luscious caramel. This recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that harmonize perfectly. Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging in a personal treat, these brownies are sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this baking adventure. Your taste buds will thank you! Happy baking!