These Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are the ultimate dessert mash-up—combining the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with a creamy cheesecake layer, gooey caramel drizzle, and chopped Milky Way bars for an extra dose of chocolatey delight. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or when you need a serious sweet fix!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
The combination of chewy brownies, tangy cream cheese filling, decadent caramel sauce, and crunchy Milky Way pieces creates layers of flavor and texture that will leave everyone asking for seconds. It’s easy to make yet feels like pure indulgence in every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Brownies:
- 1 box brownie mix , plus ingredients needed per package instructions (eggs, oil, water)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz cream cheese , softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
For Assembly:
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 6 Milky Way bars , chopped
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Base
- Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, mixing in eggs, oil, and water as directed.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly across the bottom.
Step 3: Create the Cheesecake Layer
- In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese , granulated sugar , vanilla extract , and egg until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the first layer of brownie batter.
Step 4: Add Caramel and Milky Way Magic
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer in a zigzag pattern.
- Sprinkle the chopped Milky Way bars evenly over the caramel.
Step 5: Finish with More Brownie Bliss
- Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the cheesecake layer, spreading it gently to cover without disturbing the layers underneath.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce decoratively over the top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes , or until the edges are set and the center is slightly firm but still gooey.
- A toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean, with a few crumbs clinging to it.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
- Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. Cooling ensures the layers set properly and makes slicing easier.
- Once cooled, lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut them into squares.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overmix the Cheesecake Layer: Beat the cream cheese mixture just until smooth to avoid incorporating too much air, which could cause cracks during baking.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Freshly chopped Milky Way bars and premium caramel sauce enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Cool Completely Before Cutting: Patience pays off here! Letting the brownies cool fully ensures clean slices and prevents the cheesecake layer from oozing out.
- Customize Your Toppings: Add sea salt flakes on top of the caramel for a salty-sweet twist, or sprinkle some crushed nuts for added crunch.
Nutritional Information:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: About 55–60 minutes
- Servings: 16–24 brownies (depending on size)
- Calories per Serving: ~350 kcal (approximate)
Perfect Pairings:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop some cold vanilla ice cream alongside these warm brownies for a decadent dessert experience.
- Whipped Cream: Top each square with a dollop of whipped cream for extra lightness.
- Fresh Berries: Balance the richness with a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries.
Why It’s Perfect Anytime:
These Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies bring together three beloved desserts—brownies, cheesecake, and candy bars—into one irresistible treat. They’re perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary. With their gooey centers, creamy middles, and crunchy Milky Way bits, they promise pure indulgence in every bite.
So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and prepare to dive into this dreamy dessert creation. Your taste buds will thank you! 🍴✨