Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful treat that brings smiles to faces young and old. If you love rich and sweet desserts, this recipe is a must-try! Picture this: a warm brownie base, creamy cheesecake filling, smooth caramel drizzle, and chunks of delicious Milky Way bars sprinkled throughout. It’s a dessert that feels special, yet it comes together easily in your own kitchen. People adore this recipe because it combines the joy of brownies with the richness of cheesecake, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or just a sweet treat for a weeknight, these brownies are sure to be a hit.
Why Make This Recipe
What makes Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies stand out is their perfect blend of flavors and textures. The fudgy brownie gives a deep chocolate flavor, while the cheesecake layer adds a creamy, velvety contrast. The caramel sauce brings a sweet, luscious touch, while the Milky Way chunks provide little bursts of chewy goodness.
These brownies are also simple to make. You’ll find that most of the ingredients are things you might already have at home. The brownie mix makes the process quick, so you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your delicious creation. Plus, baking with loved ones can be such a fun experience! Imagine kids helping to pour and mix, or friends chatting as they drizzle caramel over your creation. These moments make baking special.
This recipe is also flexible. It works well for gatherings, and you can adjust it for different tastes. Add nuts if you like crunch, or switch to your favorite candy bars. It’s a great base for a variety of flavors, making it a dessert you’ll want to keep in your recipe book.
How to Make Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies
Making Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies is as enjoyable as it is easy. You start by gathering all your ingredients and preparing your baking pan. As you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), the anticipation starts to build. You know something warm and sweet is about to come out of the oven.
Next, you’ll prepare the brownie mix. The scent of chocolate fills the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere. Pour half of the brownie batter into the pan and spread it evenly. This delightful chocolate base has a rich, fudgy feel that sets the stage for your masterpiece.
Now, it’s time to make the cheesecake layer. As you beat the cream cheese with sugar and vanilla, you’ll notice how it transforms into a smooth and creamy texture. The sweet aroma will make your mouth water. Carefully spread this creamy layer over the brownie base, knowing that every bite will be a delicious surprise.
Then comes the fun part! Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer and sprinkle in the chopped Milky Way bars. The combination of flavors melds into something truly special. Finally, spoon the remaining brownie batter on top and drizzle with the rest of the caramel.
Place your pan in the oven and let it bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll be tempted to peek, and you might catch a sweet waft of caramel and chocolate. When they are done, the brownies will be set on the edges but still gooey in the center. After letting them cool completely, you’ll be greeted by the anticipation of cutting into your beautiful dessert.
Ingredients
1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients needed per package instructions)
This base adds rich chocolate flavor and makes the brownies fudgy. You can use any brownie mix you prefer, whether it’s classic, gluten-free, or even a protein-packed mix.
16 oz cream cheese, softened
Cream cheese is vital for the cheesecake layer. It provides that creamy texture and tanginess. Make sure it’s soft to ensure a smooth mixture. For a dairy-free option, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese.
1/2 cup granulated sugar
Sugar sweetens the cheesecake layer, balancing the tanginess of the cream cheese. It is also essential in the brownie mix. If you want a lower-calorie option, consider using a sugar substitute.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
This adds a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances both the cheesecake and brownie layers. If you don’t have vanilla extract, you could try almond extract for a different twist.
1 egg
The egg gives structure and helps bind the cheesecake layer. If you are looking for an egg substitute, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or applesauce for vegan options.
1 cup caramel sauce
This delicious sauce enhances the flavor and adds sweetness. You can buy pre-made caramel sauce, or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own at home!
6 Milky Way bars, chopped
These candy bars add chewy texture and rich caramel flavor, fitting perfectly with the rest of the dessert. Feel free to swap them for your favorite candy bars, like Snickers or Twix, if desired.
Directions
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Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s ready for your brownies as soon as everything is prepared.
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Prepare the baking pan: Take a 9×13-inch baking pan and grease it lightly with butter or spray. Then, line it with parchment paper. This makes it super easy to lift your brownies out later.
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Mix the brownie batter: In a large bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions. Add the required ingredients like eggs, water, and oil. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix; this helps keep the brownies fudgy.
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Pour the first layer: Once mixed, pour half of the brownie batter into the bottom of your prepared pan. Spread it out evenly, covering the bottom layer completely.
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Make the cheesecake layer: In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg. Mix until smooth and creamy. You want it to be nice and fluffy, so take your time here.
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Spread the cheesecake: Carefully spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly over the top.
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Add caramel and Milky Way bars: Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer. Then sprinkle the chopped Milky Way bars evenly on top. This is where the magic begins!
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Top with remaining brownie batter: Gently spoon the remaining brownie batter on top of the cheesecake layer. Try to cover it as best as possible, like a cozy blanket.
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Final caramel drizzle: Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top of the brownies. This will create a beautiful, rich topping.
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Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You want to get a set texture on the edges while ensuring it remains gooey in the middle. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s perfect!
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Cool and cut: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling time helps them set before you cut them into squares. Once cool, lift them out using the parchment paper for easy slicing.
How to Serve Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies
These brownies can be enjoyed in various ways! Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra special treat. The warm brownie combined with cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast.
For special occasions, you could plate them nicely with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce and a sprinkle of whipped cream. They make for a great dessert after a weeknight dinner or during gatherings with family and friends.
Pair these brownies with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a delicious afternoon snack or dessert.
How to Store Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies
Storing leftover brownies is simple! Once they’ve cooled, cut them into squares. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
If you have leftovers that you want to keep longer, consider freezing them. Place the squares in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months.
When you’re ready to eat them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a few hours. You can also pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm.
Tips to Make Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies
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Don’t overmix the brownie batter: Stir just until combined to keep the brownies fudgy.
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Use room temperature cream cheese: This helps it blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
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Drizzle caramel after baking: For extra presentation, you can warm some caramel sauce and drizzle it over the brownies after they’ve cooled and been cut.
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Check doneness with a toothpick: Remember, if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s done!
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Let cool before slicing: This ensures cleaner cuts and better squares, so resist the urge to cut into warm brownies.
Variation
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Nutty Surprise: Add 1/2 cup of your favorite nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the brownie batter for extra crunch.
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Minty Delight: Try swapping out the caramel for peppermint sauce and adding crushed peppermint candies for a fun minty flavor, especially around the holidays.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free brownie mix to create a treat that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake them a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge and bring them to room temperature before serving. They will taste just as delicious!
Q: What’s the best way to reheat it?
To reheat, simply pop a piece in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will warm it up and make it gooey again!
Q: Can I use a different cheese or flour?
You can replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a dairy-free version. For a gluten-free option, just use a gluten-free brownie mix and ensure that all your ingredients are gluten-free.
With all this information, you’re ready to bake your Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies! They are sure to be a favorite for everyone. Enjoy!
Print
Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dessert combining rich brownie, creamy cheesecake, and chunks of Milky Way bars with a luscious caramel drizzle.
Ingredients
- 1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients needed per package instructions)
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 6 Milky Way bars, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- In another bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie base, smoothing it out evenly.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer and sprinkle the chopped Milky Way bars on top.
- Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer, covering it.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top of the brownies.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the edges are set but the center remains gooey.
- Let them cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Notes
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoy cold. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: brownies, cheesecake, Milky Way, dessert, caramel