about contact

Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies

Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies

by
Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

 

Short Description

Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies combine the fudgy richness of classic brownies with the creamy decadence of hot chocolate-infused cheesecake. With gooey marshmallows and optional chocolate drizzle on top, this cozy dessert is the perfect fusion of two winter favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Two Desserts in One: Enjoy the best of brownies and cheesecake in a single indulgent bar.

  • Hot Chocolate Twist: Infused with hot chocolate mix for a nostalgic, comforting flavor.

  • Simple Preparation: Uses a brownie mix for convenience, with an easy homemade cheesecake swirl.

  • Perfect for Winter: A festive, warm dessert ideal for holiday baking or cold nights.

  • Customizable Toppings: Add ganache, extra marshmallows, or your favorite drizzle.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Brownie Layer:

  • 1 box brownie mix (plus required ingredients listed on the box, such as eggs, oil, and water)

  • ½ cup mini marshmallows

  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

For the Cheesecake Layer:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 large egg

  • 2 tablespoons hot chocolate mix

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping (optional):

  • ½ cup mini marshmallows

  • Chocolate syrup or ganache drizzle

Directions

  1. Preheat Oven
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

  2. Prepare Brownie Layer
    Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions. Mix in cinnamon if using. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle ½ cup of mini marshmallows over the top.

  3. Make Cheesecake Mixture
    In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, egg, hot chocolate mix, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is creamy and well combined.

  4. Assemble
    Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the two layers together for a marbled effect.

  5. Bake
    Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.

  6. Cool and Top
    Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Top with extra mini marshmallows and drizzle with chocolate syrup or ganache if desired.

  7. Chill and Serve
    Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before slicing for clean edges and the best texture.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 9–12 bars

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 35–40 minutes

  • Chill Time: 1 hour

  • Total Time: About 1 hour 55 minutes

Variations

  • Mint Chocolate: Add peppermint extract to the cheesecake layer or use mint hot chocolate mix.

  • Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne or chili powder in the brownie batter.

  • Cookies and Cream: Top with crushed chocolate sandwich cookies along with the marshmallows.

  • Nutty Version: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for crunch.

  • Extra Chocolate: Mix in chocolate chips for double the fudgy texture.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

  • Freezing: Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator.

  • Reheating: If you like them warm, heat a slice in the microwave for about 15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a mix?

Yes, any standard brownie recipe will work as a base.

Can I make this recipe without the hot chocolate mix?

You can substitute cocoa powder and a bit of extra sugar to replicate the hot chocolate flavor.

Do the marshmallows melt during baking?

The marshmallows in the brownie layer partially melt and caramelize, adding gooey pockets. The topping marshmallows remain soft if added after baking.

Can I use large marshmallows instead of mini?

Mini marshmallows work best, but you can chop large ones into smaller pieces if needed.

How do I swirl the cheesecake into the brownie?

Use a butter knife or skewer to create figure-eight motions gently through the batter without overmixing.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Increase baking time slightly and check for doneness.

Do I need to chill the brownies?

Chilling helps them set and makes slicing easier, but you can enjoy them warm if you prefer a softer texture.

What’s the best way to cut these brownies?

Use a sharp knife cleaned between cuts, ideally after the brownies have chilled.

Can I add chocolate chips to the cheesecake layer?

Absolutely. Mini chocolate chips add extra texture and richness.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free brownie mix and verify that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies are the ultimate winter treat—rich, fudgy, creamy, and full of nostalgic hot cocoa flavor. With minimal prep and impressive results, they’re perfect for holiday tables, bake sales, or cozy evenings at home. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies

Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 9–12 brownies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

Hot Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies combine the fudgy richness of brownies with a creamy, dreamy hot chocolate cheesecake swirl and gooey marshmallow topping. A decadent dessert perfect for winter cravings, cozy nights, or any time you want a sweet, chocolatey indulgence!

Ingredients

Brownie Layer:

  • 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients required on box)

  • 1/2 cup mini marshmallows

  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Cheesecake Layer:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 large egg

  • 2 tbsp hot chocolate mix

  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Topping (optional):

  • 1/2 cup mini marshmallows

  • Chocolate syrup or ganache drizzle

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.

  • Prepare Brownie Layer: Mix brownie batter according to package directions. Pour into prepared pan and sprinkle with 1/2 cup mini marshmallows.

  • Make Cheesecake Layer: In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, hot chocolate mix, and vanilla until smooth.

  • Swirl Layers: Drop spoonfuls of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter. Swirl with a knife for a marbled effect.

  • Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set.

  • Cool and Top: Let cool completely. Top with additional mini marshmallows and drizzle with chocolate syrup or ganache if desired. Chill before slicing.

Notes

  • Cinnamon adds a warm flavor note—optional but recommended.

  • For richer flavor, substitute water in brownie mix with coffee or milk.

  • These brownies slice best after chilling for at least 1 hour.

Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe!

If you love this recipe, please consider giving it a star rating when you leave a comment. Star ratings help people discover my recipes online. Your support means a lot to me, I appreciate you.

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *