Print

Cozy Black Velvet Spiderweb Cheesecake Bars

black velvet spiderweb cheesecake bars - featured image

These Cozy Black Velvet Spiderweb Cheesecake Bars feature a rich, dark brownie base topped with creamy cheesecake, swirled into a spiderweb pattern. They are perfect for Halloween or any cozy night in, with a fudgy texture and tangy cheesecake in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup black cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Add eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla, whisk vigorously for about 1 minute until smooth and slightly thickened.
  3. Sift flour, black cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder over the wet mixture. Fold with a rubber spatula until just combined. Reserve about 1/4 cup of this batter for the swirl.
  4. Spread the remaining brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan.
  5. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup granulated sugar with a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add egg yolk, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, and sour cream, beat until just combined.
  6. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie base and spread gently into an even layer.
  7. Drop small spoonfuls of the reserved brownie batter on top of the cheesecake layer. Use a toothpick or skewer to drag through the dollops in a circular motion to create a spiderweb pattern.
  8. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack (about 2 hours), then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  9. Lift bars out using parchment overhang. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Notes

Don’t overbake; the center should be slightly jiggly. Use room temperature ingredients for best texture. Chill thoroughly before slicing for clean cuts. Black cocoa powder gives an Oreo-like flavor; Dutch-process cocoa can be substituted.

Nutrition

Keywords: black velvet, spiderweb, cheesecake bars, Halloween dessert, brownie cheesecake, fall dessert, cozy dessert