Name: Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (18–19 oz) brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups chopped Milky Way candy bars; 1/3 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling); pinch of salt

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Imagine the world’s fudgiest brownies, rich cheesecake swirls, and a generous handful of chocolate-caramel candy, all brought together in one irresistible dessert. That’s the magic you’ll find in Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies—a layered brownie treat that balances decadent chocolate, creamy tang, and pockets of caramel in one bite. These brownies are perfect for parties or a decadent night in, and every step is simple enough for even beginner bakers!

Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies is how accessible yet essential each ingredient is. Every component plays a role in crafting that gorgeous marbled look and deep, layered flavor you’ll be craving again and again.

Brownie mix: A boxed mix keeps things easy, and provides that reliably fudgy base for all the amazing layers to come.
Eggs, oil, and water (for brownie mix): Follow the package directions—these ensure your brownies are moist and richly textured.
Cream cheese (softened): The heart of that luscious cheesecake layer, make sure it’s soft so it whips up perfectly smooth.
Granulated sugar: Blends seamlessly into the cheesecake filling, adding just enough sweet lift.
Large egg: Gives structure to the cheesecake swirl and helps everything bake up creamy.
Vanilla extract: Brings warm, aromatic depth to the cheesecake and highlights the caramel notes in the brownies.
All-purpose flour: Just a spoonful keeps the cheesecake from feeling too soft, giving each slice tidy, beautifully defined swirls.
Milky Way candy bars (chopped): These offer gooey caramel pockets and satisfyingly chewy bites throughout!
Caramel sauce: For drizzling and swirling—this is where the brownies get that signature sticky-sweet finish.
Pinch of salt: Never underestimate a little salt; it heightens the flavor of both the chocolate and caramel.

How to Make Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat

Set yourself up for brownie bliss by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or give it a light grease. This ensures easy removal and picture-perfect slices once your Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are cooled.

Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter

In one bowl, prepare your brownie mix according to its package instructions, adding the appropriate eggs, oil, and water. Pour about three-quarters of the brownie batter into your prepared pan, saving the rest for swirling on top.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer

Grab a second bowl and whip your softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and fluffy—no lumps allowed! Blend in the granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, flour, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is creamy. Gently fold in the chopped Milky Way bars, so you get those magical caramel-chocolate bites spread throughout.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Carefully spread the cheesecake mixture over your brownie batter base. Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the cheesecake layer, then use a spoon to dollop the remaining brownie batter across the top. With a knife, gently swirl everything together—aim for a marbled look so every bite is a little different!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer your pan to the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center just barely jiggles and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs (rather than wet batter). Let the brownies cool completely in the pan, then drizzle with extra caramel for that bakery-fresh finish before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

Garnishes

The final flourish is all about adding extra wow-factor! Try a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or even a few extra chopped Milky Way pieces on top. These simple finishing touches enhance both the look and the flavor.

Side Dishes

Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate sundae effect. You can also balance the richness with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or a mug of strong coffee—pure comfort on a plate!

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the brownies into small squares for party platters, serve them warm in a bowl topped with whipped cream, or layer broken brownie pieces in parfait glasses with more cream and fruit for a show-stopping dessert trifle. However you serve them, Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies always steal the show.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, simply store your Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay moist and flavorful for up to five days—just be prepared for them to disappear fast!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these brownies! Slice them first, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and tuck into a freezer-safe container. When frozen this way, they keep beautifully for up to three months.

Reheating

Enjoy your brownies straight from the fridge for a firm, fudgy texture, or microwave individual pieces for 10–15 seconds to bring back their gooey, just-baked magic. Warm brownies and melty caramel truly are a match made in dessert heaven!

FAQs

Can I use a homemade brownie recipe instead of a mix?

Definitely! Your favorite homemade brownie batter works great as the base. Just make sure to use enough to fill a 9×9-inch pan, and follow the assembly and baking steps as written for Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies.

What’s the best way to cut cheesecake brownies cleanly?

For sharp, bakery-worthy squares, let your brownies chill in the fridge for an hour before slicing. Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between each cut—this prevents dragging and keeps those beautiful swirls intact.

Can I substitute other candy bars for Milky Way?

Absolutely! Any caramel-filled chocolate bar will work in this recipe, making it easy to use what you have or experiment with fun flavor combos. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces so every bite is packed with candy goodness.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Look for a center that’s just set and a toothpick that comes out with moist crumbs, not raw batter. The cheesecake will continue to firm up as the brownies cool, so avoid overbaking for maximum fudginess!

Can Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies be made gluten free?

Yes! Simply use your favorite gluten-free brownie mix and swap in a gluten-free flour blend (or leave the tablespoon of flour out if it’s GF). Just double-check your candy and caramel to make sure they’re gluten free as well.

Final Thoughts

There’s something outrageously joyful about a dessert that combines all your favorite flavors in one square. Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are pure bake-sale gold and the perfect project for anyone who loves a bit of indulgence. Gather your ingredients, unleash your inner swirl artist, and let these brownies be the highlight of your next gathering or late-night snack attack!

Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

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4.6 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 16 brownies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the decadent delight of Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies. These rich and gooey treats combine the best of brownies, cheesecake, and candy bars for a truly unforgettable dessert experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Brownie Layer:

1 box (18–19 oz) brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)

Cheesecake Layer:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups chopped Milky Way candy bars
1/3 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
pinch of salt

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Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Make brownie batter: Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions and pour about 3/4 of it into the prepared pan.
Prepare cheesecake mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, egg, vanilla extract, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix until creamy and well combined. Gently fold in the chopped Milky Way bars.
Layer and bake: Spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter in the pan. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top. Spoon the remaining brownie batter over in dollops and gently swirl with a knife to create a marbled effect. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool and serve: Cool completely before drizzling with additional caramel and slicing.