Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies – The Perfect Dessert Mashup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you are searching for the ultimate indulgent treat, look no further than Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies. This recipe combines the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with a luscious cheesecake layer, all swirled with pieces of decadent Milky Way bars. The result is a dessert that balances gooey chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and the caramel-nougat sweetness of the candy bars in every bite. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just as a well-deserved treat, these brownies are guaranteed to impress. They are not only visually stunning with their marbled effect but also irresistible in flavor. Whether you are a brownie lover, a cheesecake enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys chocolate bars, this dessert truly offers the best of all worlds.

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Ingredients

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

The success of Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies lies in the thoughtful combination of everyday baking staples and the star ingredient—Milky Way bars. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture.

Cream Cheese – Provides the smooth, tangy base for the cheesecake layer, adding balance to the sweetness of the brownies and candy bars.

Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake filling and enhances the flavor of the brownie base without overpowering the chocolate.

Eggs – Essential for structure, eggs help both the brownies and cheesecake set properly while contributing richness.

Vanilla Extract – Infuses the batter with warm undertones, ensuring the flavors taste well-rounded and aromatic.

All-Purpose Flour – Adds structure and stability to the brownie base, preventing it from being too gooey or collapsing.

Cocoa Powder – Delivers a deep chocolate flavor, making the brownies rich and indulgent.

Butter – Provides moisture and a velvety texture, ensuring the brownies remain soft while also carrying flavor.

Brown Sugar – Adds depth with its caramel-like undertones, complementing the nougat and caramel in Milky Way bars.

Baking Powder – Ensures the brownies rise slightly, giving them a soft yet dense texture.

Milky Way Bars – The highlight of the recipe, these candy bars introduce layers of chocolate, caramel, and nougat, creating pockets of indulgence throughout the dessert.

Directions

To create Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies, start by preparing the brownie base. Melt butter with cocoa powder until smooth, then whisk in sugars, eggs, vanilla, and flour to form a rich batter. Pour half of the mixture into a greased baking pan, spreading evenly. Chop the Milky Way bars into small pieces and sprinkle a generous portion over the brownie base.

Next, prepare the cheesecake layer by beating cream cheese with sugar, eggs, and vanilla until silky smooth. Spread this cheesecake mixture carefully over the brownie base, ensuring an even layer. Add the remaining brownie batter on top, swirling it gently with a knife to create a marbled effect. Scatter additional Milky Way chunks over the top for extra indulgence.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set but still slightly jiggly. Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing, as this ensures clean, neat squares with distinct layers. For best results, chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 12–16 brownies, depending on how large you cut them. Preparation takes around 20 minutes, while baking requires 35–40 minutes. Cooling and chilling will add at least 2 hours to ensure perfect slicing. Overall, you should plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

Storage/reheating

Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in parchment and foil for up to 2 months. To enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. These brownies are best served chilled, but if you prefer a softer texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating.

Variations and Customizations

Peanut Butter Twist – Swirl in a few spoonfuls of creamy peanut butter into the cheesecake layer for a nutty depth.

Oreo Cheesecake Brownies – Replace Milky Way bars with crushed Oreos for a cookies-and-cream variation.

Nut Lover’s Version – Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the brownie batter for extra crunch and richness.

Salted Caramel Drizzle – Drizzle homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce over the baked brownies before serving to enhance the caramel notes.

Dark Chocolate Upgrade – Substitute part of the cocoa powder with dark chocolate chunks for a more intense chocolate flavor.

Mint Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies – Add peppermint extract to the cheesecake filling and swap Milky Way for mint chocolate bars.

Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Mini Cheesecake Brownie Bites – Bake in a muffin tin for individually portioned treats perfect for parties.

White Chocolate Swirl – Incorporate melted white chocolate into the cheesecake layer for a marbled two-tone effect.

Holiday Special – Add festive sprinkles or colored candy pieces to make the brownies suitable for holiday gatherings.

FAQs

Can I use other candy bars instead of Milky Way?

Yes, you can substitute with Snickers, Mars, or any chocolate-caramel bar.

Do I need to chill the brownies before cutting?

Yes, chilling helps the layers set and allows for cleaner slices.

Can I use boxed brownie mix for this recipe?

Absolutely, boxed brownie mix works well if you want to save time.

How do I prevent overbaking the cheesecake layer?

Remove from the oven when the center is just slightly jiggly, as it will continue to set while cooling.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it is ideal for making a day ahead since it tastes even better chilled.

What type of cream cheese works best?

Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest and richest cheesecake layer.

Conclusion

Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies are the ultimate dessert fusion, marrying the richness of brownies, the creaminess of cheesecake, and the sweet indulgence of candy bars. This recipe is versatile, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, from casual family nights to festive gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a show-stopping treat that everyone will love. Whether you stick to the classic Milky Way version or explore creative variations, these brownies will surely become a favorite in your dessert collection.

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