Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies

These Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are a rich, fudgy dessert that combines three irresistible layers: dense chocolate brownie, creamy caramel cheesecake, and gooey chunks of Milky Way bars. I love baking these when I want something over-the-top and indulgent—each bite is full of chocolate, caramel, and smooth cheesecake bliss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s packed with layers of texture and flavor in every square. The brownie base is thick and fudgy, the cheesecake is rich and creamy with a hint of caramel, and the chopped Milky Way bars melt into gooey, chocolate-caramel pockets throughout. It’s a crowd-pleaser that looks impressive but is actually easy to make—all in one pan.

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

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Vanilla extract

• Unsweetened cocoa powder

• All-purpose flour

• Salt

• Optional: chocolate chips for extra fudginess

For the cheesecake layer:

• Cream cheese, softened

• Granulated sugar

• Egg

• Vanilla extract

• Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the topping:

• Milky Way candy bars, chopped

• Extra caramel sauce for drizzling

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a saucepan, I melt the butter, then stir in the sugar and cocoa powder until combined. I let it cool slightly before whisking in the eggs and vanilla.

3. I fold in the flour and salt just until combined, then spread the brownie batter into the prepared pan.

4. In a separate bowl, I beat the cream cheese until smooth, then mix in the sugar, egg, vanilla, and caramel sauce until creamy.

5. I pour the cheesecake layer over the brownie batter and gently spread it to cover the surface.

6. I scatter chopped Milky Way bars evenly over the top and gently press them into the cheesecake layer.

7. I bake the brownies for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

8. I let them cool completely, then drizzle with more caramel before slicing into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 to 16 brownies, depending on how I cut them. It takes about 20 minutes to prepare, 35–40 minutes to bake, and another 1–2 hours to cool and chill for clean slicing—so I plan for around 2.5 hours total from start to finish.

Variations

Sometimes I swirl the caramel directly into the cheesecake layer for a marbled effect. I’ve also used Snickers, Twix, or Rolos instead of Milky Ways for a fun twist. For a deeper flavor, I’ve added a touch of espresso powder to the brownie base. If I want a crunchier texture, I mix in chopped pecans or walnuts.

Storage/reheating

I store the brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. I like to let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for the best texture. They also freeze well—once cooled, I wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 2 months. I thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before eating.

FAQs

Do I need to chill them before cutting?

Yes, I always chill them for at least an hour after baking. It helps the cheesecake layer set and makes for cleaner slices.

Can I use a box brownie mix?

Absolutely. When I’m short on time, I use my favorite boxed mix for the brownie base and just make the cheesecake and topping from scratch.

Can I use homemade caramel?

Yes, I’ve used homemade caramel sauce and it works beautifully. I just make sure it’s thick but pourable so it blends well with the cheesecake.

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

I use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. Chilling the brownies first also helps prevent the layers from sticking to the knife.

Are they very sweet?

They’re rich and sweet, but the tangy cheesecake balances it out nicely. I sometimes use dark chocolate cocoa powder or less sugar in the brownie layer to mellow the sweetness.

Conclusion

Milky Way Caramel Cheesecake Brownies are one of my favorite ways to turn everyday ingredients into a bakery-worthy treat. They’re rich, layered, gooey, and packed with everything I love about chocolate, caramel, and cheesecake. Whether I make them for a special occasion or just because I’m craving something indulgent, they always deliver that perfect sweet fix.