White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies
Rich fudgy brownies topped with a creamy cheesecake layer and studded with mini white chocolate peanut butter cups throughout. The combination of cocoa brownie base, tangy cream cheese frosting, and sweet peanut butter cups creates an indulgent dessert perfect for potlucks, parties, or special occasions. The cheesecake topping requires chilling time but transforms ordinary brownies into an impressive layered treat that's sure to disappear quickly.
Ingredients
- 2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup salted butter, softenedunsalted butter + 1/4 tsp salt1:1basicFull guide →
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 4 eggs
- 1 ½ cups flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 cube cream cheese, softenedmascarpone1:1textureFull guide →
- 1 can sweet condensed milkheavy cream + powdered sugar3/4 cup cream + 1/2 cup sugarbasic
- 1 pkg mini white chocolate Reese's peanut butter cups
Instructions
- 1
Cream butter, sugar and vanilla together
- 2
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition
- 3
Mix in cocoa powder, flour and baking powder until smooth
- 4
Cut half the peanut butter cups into quarters and fold into batter
- 5
Spread batter in greased pan and bake until set but not overbaked
- 6
Cool brownies completely for one hour
- 7
Beat cream cheese, condensed milk and vanilla for 2 minutes until smooth
- 8
Spread frosting over cooled brownies
- 9
Top with remaining peanut butter cups and refrigerate until set
Tips
Don't overbake the brownies - they should be set but still slightly soft for the best fudgy texture.
Make sure brownies are completely cool before adding the cheesecake layer to prevent melting.
Chill for the full 2-3 hours to ensure the cheesecake topping sets properly for clean slicing.
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 5 days
Can be made 1-2 days ahead, add topping just before serving
Cut into squares and serve chilled
Common Mistakes
Don't overbake the brownies to avoid a dry, cakey texture
Cool brownies completely before frosting to prevent melting the cheesecake layer
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use regular chocolate instead of white chocolate peanut butter cups?
Yes, regular chocolate peanut butter cups work well, though the flavor profile will be different with the white chocolate cheesecake topping.
How long do these need to chill before serving?
Chill for at least 2-3 hours to properly set the cheesecake layer for clean slicing and best texture.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, wrap individual pieces well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before serving.