Last Updated on January 22, 2023 by Kimberly Stroh

Biting into a warm brownie is one of life’s greatest simple pleasures. I’m always making a batch of brownies for our family because it’s a favorite easy dessert recipe. There’s always an argument that comes up though – what is better the center brownies or the edge brownies? The answer may never be solved, but I know that I have nothing to worry about. My Husband likes the edge corner pieces while I prefer the middle – that’s why we’re perfect for each other. These Cherry Cheesecake Brownies are so simple to make and guests love them!

Brownies are a great dessert when you want something chocolatey and fudge. These brownies are next level with a cheesecake swirl and cherries. They’re actually quite easy to make though – because it’s a doctored up recipe that uses a box of brownies. You’ll never want to make a plain box of brownies again!

Take them to any gathering or serve them as dessert after family dinner. The soft cheesecake, tart cherries and fudge brownie makes them irresistible.

Looking for even more great brownie recipes? My kids are big brownie fans, so I’ve come up with a few variations that I love:

• Pecan Pie Brownies
• Two-Step Lemon Brownies
• Peppermint Mocha Brownies

How To Make Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

For this recipe, you’ll use a family size box of brownie mix (I used Pillsbury). You’ll need a 13×9-inch baking pan. I also used my stand mixer to make these brownies, but you can use an electric hand mixer instead, if preferred.

When To Make These Brownies

I never need a special occasion to make these brownies. They’re so simple that I think they’re great for any time you have a sweet tooth craving. I make them for birthday parties, church potlucks, BBQ’s and family dinners. They’re so easy to transport, so they’re a great dessert to make if you get invited somewhere. Plus, the brownies aren’t seasonal! Make them any time of the year.

How To Store Leftover Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

Either keep the brownies in the original baking tray and cover with plastic wrap or transfer the brownies to an airtight food storage container. For best freshness, enjoy the brownies for 4-5 days after baking. The brownies should be refrigerated because of the dairy. Just let them thaw for a few minutes before enjoying again.

Can You Freeze These Brownies?

Yes! These brownies freeze really well. I recommend placing any extras in a freezer bag. Store the brownies in the back of your freezer. The temperature varies less than when it’s in the front of the freezer. Freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Let the brownies thaw to room temperature, on the countertop, before enjoying again.

What You’ll Need From The Store:

• Family-Size Brownie Mix (for 13×9-inch pan)
• Water
• Vegetable Oil
• Powdered Sugar
• Cherry Pie Filling
• Cream Cheese

Directions To Make Cherry Cheesecake Brownies

Butter the bottom of a deep 9 x 13” baking dish. In a stand mixer combine brownie mix, 2 eggs, ⅔ C. oil, and  ¼ C. water. 

Mix until thoroughly combined. I like to scrape the edges with a spatula to make sure everything is combined. 

Pour mixture into buttered baking dish.

Next, make the cheesecake mixture. Whip the cream cheese.

Add the remaining egg and beat until combined.

Add powdered sugar and continue mixing until it’s fully incorporated.

Alternate spoonfuls of cherry pie filling and cheesecake mixture into the brownie mixture.

Use a butter knife to swirl around.

Bake for 40 minutes. Cool and cut into squares. Serve with remaining cherry pie filling and whipped topping, if desired. They’re also great for brownie ice cream sundaes!