Welcome to the delightful world of Black Bottom Brownie Bites – a miniature marvel that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy tang of cheesecake. This isn’t just any dessert; it’s a nostalgic trip back to cherished high school baking experiments, now perfected into a sublime, bite-sized treat. Each decadent morsel promises to be the perfect antidote for your deepest chocolate cravings, offering an irresistible blend of textures and flavors that has captivated palates for years.
These exquisite mini chocolate cheesecake brownies are ideally sized for any occasion. Whether you’re seeking a quick, satisfying snack or a sophisticated addition to a dessert buffet, their compact form belies an explosion of taste. The harmonious combination of a dense chocolate base and a luscious cream cheese swirl, dotted with mini chocolate chips, ensures a truly memorable experience. This timeless recipe is a testament to the fact that some flavor pairings are simply meant to be.
Why These Black Bottom Brownie Bites Are an Absolute Must-Bake
When it comes to desserts, versatility and irresistible flavor are key. Our Black Bottom Brownie Bites excel in both, making them an essential addition to your baking repertoire. Here’s why these delightful mini treats deserve a spot in your kitchen:
- Effortless Portion Control & Perfect for Any Gathering: Mini desserts are inherently appealing, offering just the right amount of sweetness without overwhelming. They’re ideal for families where everyone wants “just a little something,” and they shine at parties, making it easy for guests to sample a variety of treats. These bite-sized delights eliminate the need for cutting and serving, simplifying hosting and allowing everyone to enjoy a perfectly portioned indulgence.
- A Symphony of Flavors: Three Desserts in One Bite: What makes these brownie bites truly extraordinary is their unique hybrid nature. Imagine the rich, chewy depth of a classic chocolate brownie, fused with the creamy, tangy lusciousness of cheesecake, and studded with pockets of melted mini chocolate chips. It’s an innovative cross between a chocolate cupcake, a mini brownie, and a cheesecake, delivering a complex and satisfying flavor profile that feels like three distinct desserts expertly combined into every single bite.
- Unmatched Versatility for Every Occasion: These chocolate cream cheese brownie bites are incredibly adaptable. Their charming size and universally loved flavor make them perfect for a wide range of events. Pack them as a special after-school snack, serve them as a crowd-pleasing treat on game day, or arrange them on an elegant dessert buffet for a sophisticated touch. They’re equally at home at holiday celebrations, office potlucks, or simply as a comforting homemade dessert for your family. No matter the setting, these brownie bites are guaranteed to be a well-loved and devoured delicacy.
- Inspired by Culinary Excellence: The genesis of this recipe traces back to the pages of Fine Cooking magazine, a publication renowned for its impeccably tested recipes and focus on culinary integrity. Our adaptation builds upon that foundation of quality, ensuring that every step is clear and every ingredient contributes to a superior end product. This legacy of culinary inspiration means you’re not just baking a dessert; you’re creating a tested and beloved classic.
Key Ingredient Notes for Perfect Black Bottom Brownie Bites
The success of any exceptional baked good lies in the quality of its ingredients and a few crucial preparation tips. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how to best prepare them for these luscious brownie bites:
- Kitchen Staples: You’ll need fundamental baking ingredients such as fresh butter, fine salt, granulated sugar, and all-purpose flour. Using good quality basics forms the backbone of any delicious recipe, ensuring consistent texture and flavor.
- Unsweetened Chocolate: For a deep, intense chocolate flavor that isn’t overly sweet, unsweetened chocolate is paramount. We highly recommend a high-quality bar like Ghirardelli. Its superior melting properties and rich cocoa content contribute significantly to the fudginess and overall depth of the brownie base. Avoid chocolate chips here, as they contain stabilizers that prevent smooth melting.
- Eggs: It’s crucial to bring your eggs to room temperature before incorporating them into the batter. Room temperature eggs emulsify much more easily with other ingredients, creating a smoother, more uniform batter and a lighter, airier texture in the final product. Plan ahead by taking them out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes to an hour before you begin baking.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: These tiny morsels are essential for the signature texture and bursts of chocolate in the cream cheese filling. Ghirardelli brand chips are a top choice for their rich flavor and consistent melting, but Nestles also performs beautifully. Their small size ensures an even distribution throughout the creamy layer, making every bite delightful.
- Real Vanilla Extract: The difference between real and artificial vanilla is profound in baking. Always opt for pure, real vanilla extract. The word “artificial” should not appear on the label. Real vanilla elevates the flavor of both the chocolate and cream cheese components, adding warmth and aromatic complexity that artificial versions simply cannot replicate.
- Cream Cheese: Like the eggs, your cream cheese must be at room temperature. Softened cream cheese blends smoothly with sugar and egg yolk, ensuring a silky, lump-free filling. Cold cream cheese will result in a clumpy texture that’s difficult to incorporate evenly, impacting both the consistency and appearance of your cheesecake swirl.
Expert Tips for Baking Perfect Black Bottom Brownie Bites
Achieving bakery-quality results at home is easier than you think with these expert insights. Follow these tips to ensure your Black Bottom Brownie Bites are consistently perfect, from the first step to the final, delicious bite:
- Always Line Your Mini Muffin Tin: This is a non-negotiable step for hassle-free baking. Lining your mini muffin tin with paper wrappers, also known as mini cupcake liners, is paramount. These liners act as a barrier, preventing the brownie bites from sticking to the pan and making removal incredibly easy. Beyond functionality, they also contribute to a neater, more professional presentation. Consider using silicone liners for an eco-friendly, reusable option.
- Elevate Presentation for Serving: For an extra touch of elegance, especially when serving at special gatherings, place each baked mini cupcake into a second, clean paper baking cup. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also makes them easier for guests to handle. During holidays or themed parties, opt for festive holiday-themed liners to add a celebratory flair to your dessert table.
- Avoid Overfilling the Muffin Cups: A common mistake is to fill the muffin tin too much with chocolate batter. Aim to fill each liner approximately two-thirds full. Remember, you’ll be adding a dollop of creamy cheesecake filling, and the brownie batter itself contains leavening agents that will cause it to rise during baking. Leaving adequate space ensures they bake evenly, prevent overflowing, and maintain their perfect dome shape.
- Scaling Down to Half a Batch: If you don’t need a full batch of five dozen brownie bites, feel free to halve the recipe. When it comes to the cream cheese filling, which calls for one egg yolk, halving it requires a precise measurement. The easiest method is to whisk a whole egg yolk thoroughly, then measure out 1/2 tablespoon, which is equivalent to 1 1/2 teaspoons. This provides precisely half the amount of yolk needed, ensuring your scaled-down filling retains the perfect consistency and flavor.
- Know When They’re Done: While a toothpick inserted into the brownie portion coming out clean is a good indicator, also look for visual cues. The edges of the brownie should appear set and slightly pulled away from the liner, while the center might still have a very slight wobble, especially in the cheesecake layer. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to dry brownies.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the brownie bites to cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This initial cooling in the pan allows them to set and firm up, preventing them from falling apart when removed. Cooling on a rack ensures air circulation, preventing soggy bottoms and locking in their desired texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Black Bottom Brownie Bites
Filling these mini delights is surprisingly simple! After piping or spooning the brownie batter into the prepared mini muffin cups, you can easily spoon or pipe the cream cheese filling directly into the middle of each brownie batter portion. There’s no need to create a well; the cream cheese filling is denser than the chocolate batter, so it will naturally sink down and create that beautiful “black bottom” effect as the cupcakes bake, creating a delightful surprise in the center.
Baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven’s calibration, but these mini cupcakes typically require approximately 20 minutes in a preheated oven. To confirm doneness, insert a toothpick into the brownie portion (avoiding the cream cheese center if possible). If it comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs attached, they are ready. If there’s wet batter, they need a little more time. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overbaking, which can result in dry brownies.
The best way to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking is to use paper baking cups to line your mini cupcake or muffin tin. This method guarantees that the brownies will pop out effortlessly without any residue. If you choose not to use liners, make sure to grease the tin exceptionally well with a non-stick cooking spray that contains flour, such as Baker’s Joy. After baking, allow the brownie bites to cool in the pan for just 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps them set; if they cool completely in the pan, they might become more difficult to remove cleanly.
These delicious brownie bites, with their cream cheese component, are safe to store at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, or if your kitchen is particularly warm, it’s best to freeze them. Place them in an airtight freezer-safe container, separating layers with wax or parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will keep beautifully for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply defrost overnight in the refrigerator before serving to bring them back to their optimal texture and flavor.
The easiest and most effective way to elevate a brownie is by adding a delicious filling! A tangy cream cheese filling, like the one in this recipe, is an absolutely excellent option that adds moisture and a wonderful contrast. Beyond that, consider inserting small chocolate-covered candies like Rolos or peanut butter cups into the batter before baking for an unexpected gooey center. My family also adores a generous swirl of creamy chocolate buttercream frosting on top of their brownies for an extra layer of decadence!
While you technically can, mini chocolate chips are highly recommended for this recipe. Their smaller size ensures a more even distribution throughout the cream cheese filling, preventing the filling from becoming too chunky or dense. Regular-sized chips might sink more easily to the bottom of the cream cheese layer or disrupt the balance of flavors and textures in these small bites. For the best results and a harmonious blend in every mouthful, stick with mini chips.
These Black Bottom Brownie Bites are wonderfully adaptable! Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor, or a pinch of espresso powder to the brownie batter for a deeper cocoa note. You could also experiment with different extract flavors in the cream cheese, like almond or peppermint. For a festive touch, add colorful sprinkles on top of the cream cheese before baking, or drizzle with melted white chocolate after they’ve cooled.
Explore More Mini Dessert Delights!
Mini desserts are the quintessential choice for a myriad of occasions, from elegant cocktail parties and sophisticated dinner gatherings to bountiful dessert buffets and simple afternoon tea. Their petite size makes them approachable, allowing guests to indulge without guilt and try a variety of treats. If you’ve fallen in love with these Black Bottom Brownie Bites, you’ll surely adore these other fantastic small-batch dessert ideas:
- Mini Pavlovas: Light, airy, and topped with fresh fruit and cream – a delicate showstopper.
- Raspberry Topped Mini Cheesecakes: Creamy, rich, and bursting with fresh berry flavor.
- Mini Margarita Cheesecakes: A zesty, refreshing twist on a classic dessert.
- Pecan Tassies: Often called mini pecan pies, these buttery, nutty treats are utterly addictive.
- Caramel Topped Mini Cheesecakes: A sweet and sticky indulgence that’s hard to resist.
- Chocolate Souffles: Impress your guests with these airy, decadent individual chocolate wonders.
- Individual Berry Crisps: Warm, comforting, and packed with fruity goodness, perfect with a scoop of ice cream.
- Plus, don’t miss out on the inspiration for this recipe with our full-sized Black Bottom Cupcakes for when you need a larger indulgence!
- Discover more delectable options in our collection of the Best Dessert Recipes.
We love connecting with our baking community! Stay in touch and share your culinary creations through social media. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. Don’t forget to tag us when you try one of our recipes! Your feedback is invaluable, and if you love the results, please consider giving this recipe a 5-star rating in the recipe card below. Happy baking!
Black Bottom Brownie Bites
20 minutes
20 minutes
40 minutes
5 dozen
Delightful cream cheese and chocolate chip filled brownies, a cherished recipe adapted from Fine Cooking.
Average Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (based on 14 reviews)
Recent Reviews:
- Anonymous (2023-12-19): 4.0 Stars
- Anonymous (2023-12-16): 4.0 Stars
- Anonymous (2023-12-04): 5.0 Stars
- Anonymous (2023-08-25): 5.0 Stars
- Anonymous (2023-07-09): 5.0 Stars
- Anonymous (2023-02-03): 5.0 Stars
- Anonymous (2022-11-10): 5.0 Stars
- Anonymous (2022-09-27): 4.0 Stars
- Anonymous (2022-03-16): 4.0 Stars
- Anonymous (2021-12-22): 5.0 Stars
- Healthy World Cuisine (2021-11-13): 5.0 Stars – “Liz, these are very similar to something mom used to make except her cream cheese filling was hidden in the brownie. Love your version even better as it is easier and it is prettier too!”
- wilhelmina (2021-10-05): 5.0 Stars – “These are phenomenal! I love how the cream cheese almost makes a cheesecake like filling and pairs so well with the rich brownie. YUM!”
- Mary Cain (2021-10-05): 5.0 Stars – “Bite-sized yumminess! I couldn’t stop at one!!”
- Lindsay (2021-10-04): 5.0 Stars – “Such a great dessert! The cream cheese mixed with the brownie is genius!”
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- ½ cup butter, cut into pieces, at room temperature
- 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped (recommended: Ghirardelli)
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
For the Cream Cheese Topping:
- 6 ounces cream cheese, softened at room temperature
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips, plus extra for optional garnishing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line mini-muffin tins with paper liners. This recipe yields approximately 5 dozen brownie bites. Set the prepared tins aside.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and unsweetened chocolate. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the room temperature eggs and salt with an electric mixer until light and foamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat for about 3 minutes, until the mixture is thick and a pale lemon color.
- Gently fold the slightly cooled melted chocolate mixture and the vanilla extract into the egg and sugar mixture until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
- Carefully fold in the all-purpose flour until there are no streaks of dry flour visible. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough brownies.
- Transfer the brownie batter into a gallon-sized zip-lock bag. Press out any air and seal the bag. Set this aside while you prepare the cream cheese topping.
- Using a wooden spoon or spatula, mix the softened cream cheese and 3 tablespoons of sugar in a bowl until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Stir in the room temperature egg yolk, followed by the ½ cup of mini chocolate chips. Transfer this filling into a quart-sized zip-lock bag, remove air, and seal.
- Snip off a ½-inch corner from each zip-lock bag (both the brownie batter and cream cheese filling bags). Pipe the brownie batter into the prepared mini muffin cups, filling each approximately ⅔ full.
- Next, pipe about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese topping onto the center of each brownie batter-filled cup. For an enhanced appearance, sprinkle a few extra mini chocolate chips on top of the cream cheese filling, if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the brownie portion comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. The cream cheese topping should be set with a slight golden hue.
- Allow the brownie bites to cool in the muffin tins for 5 minutes before carefully removing them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
- If you plan to reuse your muffin tins for another batch, ensure they are thoroughly cooled before filling them with batter to prevent premature cooking or sticking.
Recommended Products
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- KitchenAid 9-Speed Digital Hand Mixer
- Set of Glass Mixing Bowls
- Non Stick Mini Muffin Pan
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
30 servings (approximately 2 cupcakes per serving for 5 dozen total)
Serving Size:
2 cupcakes
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 172Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 62mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 1gSugar: 16gProtein: 3g
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