Sweet potato cheesecake brownies

Sweet potato cheesecake brownies are a delightful twist on the traditional brownie, combining the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the creamy, tangy flavor of cheesecake and the subtle sweetness of sweet potatoes. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a unique dessert that’s both comforting and decadent.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Brownie Layer:

• 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 medium sweet potatoes)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes:

1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender. Allow them to cool before peeling and mashing.

Making the Sweet Potato Brownie Layer:

2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes and melted butter. Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Making the Cheesecake Layer:

5. Prepare Cheesecake Batter: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined and smooth.

Assembling the Brownies:

6. Layer the Batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. Pour the sweet potato brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
7. Add Cheesecake Layer: Carefully spoon the cheesecake batter over the brownie layer. Use a knife or a skewer to gently swirl the cheesecake layer into the brownie batter, creating a marbled effect.

Baking and Serving:

8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. The cheesecake layer should be set but slightly jiggly in the center.
9. Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up the cheesecake layer before slicing.

Tips for Best Results:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the cheesecake layer, ensure the cream cheese and egg are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients for the brownie layer, mix just until combined to avoid dense and tough brownies.
• Swirling Technique: Use a light hand when swirling the cheesecake layer into the brownie batter. Overmixing will result in less defined swirls.

Variations and Add-Ins:

• Nuts: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the brownie batter for added crunch.
• Chocolate Chips: Mix in some chocolate chips to the brownie batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the brownie batter to complement the sweet potato flavor.

Storing and Serving:

• Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled or at room temperature. These brownies are delicious on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Sugar: 22g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

Sweet potato cheesecake brownies are a delightful and unexpected treat that combines the best of both worlds: the rich, chocolatey decadence of brownies and the creamy, tangy delight of cheesecake. The addition of sweet potatoes adds a subtle sweetness and moist texture, making these brownies uniquely delicious. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the perfect blend of flavors and textures in every bite!