Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake

This decadent Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies recipe combines three beloved desserts into one irresistible treat. The fudgy brownie base, creamy cheesecake layer studded with Milky Way pieces, and caramel swirls create a dessert that disappears within minutes at every gathering.

I created these brownies for my daughter's birthday when she couldn't decide between brownies, cheesecake, or candy bars. Now they've become our signature dessert for special occasions, and friends constantly request the recipe.

Ingredients

• Boxed brownie mix: Provides the perfect fudgy base without fuss. Choose a premium brand for best results
• Cream cheese: Creates that unmistakable tangy cheesecake layer. Philadelphia works best because of its smooth consistency
• Granulated sugar: Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese
• Large eggs: Bind everything together and create structure
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake layer
• Milky Way bars: Deliver pockets of chocolate caramel goodness throughout. Chop them while cold for cleaner cuts
• Caramel sauce: Creates delicious swirls and extra indulgence. Look for a thick sauce like Ghirardelli or homemade

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Pan:

Properly line your 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on all sides. This step is crucial for easy removal later. Preheat your oven to exactly 350°F, using an oven thermometer for accuracy if possible.

Mix Brownie Base:

Follow package instructions for your brownie mix, typically combining it with eggs, oil, and water. Mix just until combined, about 50 strokes with a wooden spoon. Pour exactly half the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with an offset spatula to reach all corners.

Create Cheesecake Layer:

Beat room temperature cream cheese using a stand mixer or hand mixer for 2 minutes until completely smooth with no lumps. Add sugar and beat for another minute until light and fluffy. Carefully add eggs and vanilla, mixing on low just until incorporated. Overmixing will add too much air.

Add Mix-ins:

Gently fold in the chopped Milky Way pieces and caramel sauce using a silicone spatula. Use a folding motion rather than stirring to maintain the creamy texture. The candy pieces should be evenly distributed throughout.

Layer and Swirl:

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the brownie base, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter on top, then use a knife to create beautiful swirls by pulling it through both layers with a light touch. Limit yourself to 8-10 swirls to avoid overmixing.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake in the center rack for 40-45 minutes. The brownie is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Cool and Chill:

Allow the brownies to cool completely at room temperature, about 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting. This patience results in clean, beautiful slices instead of messy squares.

Slice and Serve:

Use the parchment overhang to lift the entire brownie from the pan. Cut with a large, sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for presentation-worthy slices. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce if desired.

The Milky Way bars are truly the star ingredient here. I discovered through many test batches that chopping them into roughly 1/2-inch pieces works best, allowing them to create perfect pockets of caramel goodness without disappearing completely into the batter. My family has a tradition of making these brownies during our annual holiday baking marathon, with everyone taking turns chopping the candy bars and licking the spoons.

Storing Your Brownies

These indulgent treats actually taste better on day two after the flavors have had time to meld together. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking. For longer storage, wrap individual brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.

Perfect Pairings

Serve these brownies slightly chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and extra warm caramel sauce for an over-the-top dessert experience. They also pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or even a dessert wine like port. For an elegant dinner party, cut into bite-sized pieces and serve on a platter with fresh berries for a stunning presentation.

Customization Options

While Milky Way bars create the signature flavor, you can experiment with other candy bars too. Snickers add a delightful nutty crunch, while Twix provide extra caramel and cookie texture. For a mint chocolate version, use Milky Way Midnight bars and add 1/4 teaspoon mint extract to the cheesecake layer. The caramel sauce can also be swapped for chocolate ganache, butterscotch, or even raspberry preserves depending on your flavor preferences.

These Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are truly unforgettable—a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Make them for your next gathering and watch them disappear!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade brownie batter for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute a homemade brownie batter for the mix. Just ensure you have enough for the layers and adjust baking times if needed.

→ What can I use instead of Milky Way bars?

If Milky Way bars are unavailable, try using a similar caramel-filled chocolate bar such as Mars or Snickers (remove nuts if preferred).

→ Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! These brownies taste even better chilled, so making them the day before is a great option. Store them covered in the refrigerator.

→ How do I ensure a clean slice?

Chill the brownies in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing. Use a sharp knife cleaned between cuts for neat edges.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.