Peppermint Cheesecake Swirl Bars (Printable Version)
Creamy cheesecake and chocolate brownie layers infused with bright peppermint for a festive, delicious treat.
# What You Need:
→ Brownie Base
01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
06 - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Cheesecake Swirl
08 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
09 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
10 - 1 large egg
11 - 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
12 - 2 drops red food coloring (optional)
13 - 2 tablespoons crushed peppermint candies, plus extra for garnish
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk melted butter with sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully blended.
03 - Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir gently until just combined without overmixing. Spread three-quarters of the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
04 - In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add egg and peppermint extract; mix until creamy. If desired, incorporate red food coloring and fold in crushed peppermint candies.
05 - Spoon dollops of the cheesecake mixture over the brownie layer. Add remaining brownie batter in spoonfuls on top. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl both batters for a marbled effect.
06 - Bake for 33 to 36 minutes until center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
07 - Allow bars to cool completely in the pan. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before lifting out and slicing. Garnish with additional crushed peppermint candies before serving.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- It feels like sharing a secret with a friend when you realize how perfect the peppermint and chocolate pairing is.
- Once I tasted the marbled effect, it quickly became a beloved classic for every festive occasion.
02 -
- Be patient chilling the bars; it’s the step that truly sets the creamy texture.
- Adding too much peppermint extract can overpower the delicate cheesecake flavor, so start small and adjust.
03 -
- Use softened cream cheese and beat it well for the smoothest swirl texture.
- A gentle hand swirling the batters keeps the layers distinct and pretty—overmixing can muddy the look.