Introduction
If you’re a dessert enthusiast who revels in the harmonious blend of chocolate, caramel, and creamy cheesecake, then this recipe is tailor-made for you. Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are the epitome of indulgence, combining the rich flavors of fudgy brownies, luscious cheesecake, and gooey caramel, all studded with chunks of Milky Way candy bars. This dessert is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat, making it perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Triple Flavor Fusion: The combination of chocolate, caramel, and cheesecake creates a symphony of flavors in every bite.
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Texture Extravaganza: Experience the contrast between the dense brownie base, creamy cheesecake layer, and chewy caramel-infused candy pieces.
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Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering, potluck, or holiday celebration, these brownies are sure to impress.
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Easy to Make: Utilizing a boxed brownie mix simplifies the process without compromising on taste.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: These brownies can be prepared in advance, allowing flavors to meld and intensify over time.
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base:
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1 box brownie mix (plus ingredients required per package instructions)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
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16 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 large egg
For the Caramel and Candy:
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1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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6 Milky Way bars, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Brownie Batter
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions. Once mixed, pour half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to form the base layer.
2. Create the Cheesecake Layer
In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
Gently spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie base in the pan, creating an even layer.
3. Add Caramel and Milky Way Chunks
Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer. Then, evenly sprinkle the chopped Milky Way bars across the surface, pressing them slightly into the cheesecake mixture.
4. Top with Remaining Brownie Batter
Carefully spoon the remaining brownie batter over the top, spreading it gently to cover the cheesecake and candy layers. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top for an added touch of sweetness.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to maintain a fudgy texture.
6. Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out. Cut into squares and serve. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the brownies for an hour before slicing.
Tips for Success
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the cream cheese and egg are at room temperature for a smoother cheesecake mixture.
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Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the brownies enhances their flavor and makes slicing easier.
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Customize Your Candy: Feel free to substitute Milky Way bars with other favorites like Snickers or Twix for a different flavor profile.
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Homemade Caramel Sauce: For a richer taste, consider making your own caramel sauce.
Serving Suggestions
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A la Mode: Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
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Drizzle with Chocolate: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or additional caramel sauce on top for extra indulgence.
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Pair with Coffee: Enjoy a brownie square with a cup of coffee or espresso to balance the sweetness.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
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Refrigeration: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Freezing: Wrap individual brownie squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
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Make-Ahead: Prepare the brownies a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of a boxed mix?
Absolutely! If you have a preferred homemade brownie recipe, feel free to use it as the base for this dessert.
Is it necessary to use Milky Way bars?
While Milky Way bars add a unique flavor, you can substitute them with other caramel-filled chocolates or your favorite candy bars.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free brownie mix and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free, you can adapt this recipe accordingly.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The brownies are done when the edges are set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be cautious not to overbake.
Final Thoughts
Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy any sweet craving. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe offers a decadent dessert that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. Enjoy the rich layers of chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and gooey caramel in every bite!
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Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies: A Decadent Dessert Delight
Description
These Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are pure indulgence—layered with rich brownie batter, creamy cheesecake, gooey caramel, and chunks of Milky Way bars for the ultimate dessert fusion. Perfect for when you want to seriously impress or just treat yourself to something out of this world!
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
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get that delicious aroma ready to fill your kitchen!
2. Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure it’s all set for the brownie bliss.
3. Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions, then pour half of that fudgy goodness into the prepared pan.
4. In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg until it’s smooth and creamy—just like you’d dream it to be!
5. Carefully spread that luscious cheesecake layer evenly over the brownie batter in the pan.
6. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer—let it flow like a sweet river—and sprinkle with those chopped Milky Way bars for extra decadence.
7. Top it off with the remaining brownie batter, spreading it out evenly like a warm, chocolaty blanket.
8. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top for that ultimate finishing touch.
9. Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the brownies are set but still delightfully gooey in the center.
10. Once done, allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into glorious squares.
Notes
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Brownie Base Tip: Use a fudge-style brownie mix for extra richness. Don’t overbake—gooey centers are the goal!
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Swirl It Up: For a beautiful marbled effect, use a butter knife to gently swirl the caramel and cheesecake layers before baking.
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Candy Swap: No Milky Ways? Try Snickers, Rolos, or Twix for a fun twist.
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Chill for Clean Slices: Refrigerate before cutting for clean, picture-perfect squares.
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Serving Suggestion: Warm slightly and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable dessert moment.