Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies Recipe

These Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are a rich, layered dessert that combines fudgy brownies, creamy cheesecake, and gooey caramel with chunks of Milky Way bars baked right in. Every bite is packed with chocolate, silky filling, and melty pockets of candy. When I want a show-stopping dessert that’s indulgent and guaranteed to impress, this is the one I turn to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these brownies combine three amazing textures in one bite: dense, chocolatey brownie base, smooth cheesecake, and soft caramel. The chopped Milky Way bars melt slightly into the batter, creating sweet surprises throughout. It’s a great recipe when I’m craving something decadent or need a fun dessert to bring to parties or potlucks. Best of all, it’s simple to make with pantry staples and a handful of candy bars.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the brownie layer:

• Unsalted butter, melted

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Eggs

• Vanilla extract

• All-purpose flour

• Unsweetened cocoa powder

• Salt

• Milky Way candy bars, chopped

For the cheesecake layer:

• Cream cheese, softened

• Granulated sugar

• Egg

• Vanilla extract

• Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Optional topping:

• Extra caramel drizzle

• More chopped Milky Way pieces

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, I mix melted butter with both sugars, then whisk in the eggs and vanilla.

3. I stir in flour, cocoa powder, and salt until a thick brownie batter forms.

4. I fold in the chopped Milky Way pieces and spread the batter evenly into the pan.

5. For the cheesecake layer, I beat cream cheese with sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.

6. I gently spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter.

7. I drizzle caramel sauce over the top and use a knife to swirl it into the cheesecake layer.

8. I bake for 35–40 minutes, until the center is just set and the edges are slightly golden.

9. I cool completely before slicing and drizzle more caramel on top if I want an extra gooey finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–16 brownies, depending on how I slice them. Total time is roughly 1 hour, including baking and cooling.

Variations

• I sometimes use different candy bars like Snickers or Rolos for a twist.

• Swapping the brownie base with a box mix works when I need to save time.

• A pinch of sea salt on top balances the sweetness and adds a gourmet touch.

• I’ve also layered crushed cookies between the brownie and cheesecake for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

I store these brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For the best texture, I let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. They can also be frozen—wrapped tightly—for up to 2 months. When I want one, I thaw it in the fridge overnight or microwave for a few seconds if I’m feeling impatient.

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel?

Yes, and I do when I have extra time—it adds a richer flavor. Just make sure it’s thick but pourable for easy swirling.

Do I need to chill the brownies before slicing?

It helps a lot! Chilling firms up the layers and makes cleaner cuts. I usually refrigerate them for an hour before slicing.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. I double everything and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan, adding 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best way to swirl the caramel?

I use a butter knife or skewer and gently swirl through the cheesecake layer—less is more to keep the pattern pretty.

Can I make this without candy bars?

Sure! I’ve made them with just the caramel and cheesecake layers, and they’re still delicious.

Conclusion

Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are a triple-threat dessert I always keep in my back pocket. With rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, and gooey caramel, they hit every dessert craving at once. Whether I’m baking for a crowd or just treating myself, these brownies are a guaranteed favorite that never lasts long on the plate.