Milky Way Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Brownies

If there’s one dessert I can never resist, it’s a brownie — and when I layer it with cheesecake, caramel, pecans, and chunks of Milky Way bars, it becomes pure magic. These Milky Way Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Brownies are rich, indulgent, and guaranteed to impress at any gathering. Whether I’m baking for a party, a potluck, or just because I need a chocolate fix, these brownies always hit the sweet spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dessert brings together so many decadent layers in one bite: a fudgy brownie base, a creamy cheesecake swirl, gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and those melty bits of Milky Way candy bars. It’s over-the-top in the best way and still surprisingly easy to make — thanks to a boxed brownie mix that I use as a shortcut. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, chewy, and crunchy.

Ingredients

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

Brownie Layer:

• 1 box fudge brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed on the box)

• ½ cup chopped Milky Way bars

Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 1 egg

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings:

• ⅓ cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling, optional)

• ½ cup chopped pecans

• Additional Milky Way chunks, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter
I prepare the brownie batter according to the instructions on the box, then fold in the chopped Milky Way bars. I pour most of the batter into the prepared pan, saving about ¼ cup to swirl on top later.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a separate bowl, I beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. I gently spread the cheesecake mixture over the brownie batter in the pan.

Step 4: Swirl and Top
I drizzle the caramel sauce over the cheesecake layer, then sprinkle chopped pecans across the top. I dollop the reserved brownie batter over everything and use a knife to gently swirl it through the layers for a marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake
I bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs. I let it cool completely before slicing, and for extra indulgence, I drizzle more caramel on top and garnish with extra Milky Way chunks.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Calories: Approximately 420 per serving

Variations

• When I want extra texture, I stir chocolate chips or toffee bits into the brownie layer.

• I sometimes swap the Milky Way bars for Snickers or Rolos for a different twist on the caramel-nougat flavor.

• For a festive version, I add crushed pretzels or sea salt flakes on top before baking for a sweet-salty combo.

• If I’m short on time, I use store-bought caramel sauce, but homemade works great too.

Storage/Reheating

I store these brownies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They taste amazing cold or at room temperature. If I want them warm and gooey, I microwave a square for about 10–15 seconds before serving.

FAQs

Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of boxed mix?

Absolutely. I often use my favorite homemade fudge brownie recipe if I have extra time, but the boxed version keeps things easy and consistent.

Do these need to be refrigerated?

Yes. Because of the cream cheese layer, I keep them in the fridge once they’ve cooled completely.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes. I slice them, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and freeze them in a zip-top bag. They thaw well and taste great even after freezing.

How do I get clean slices?

I chill the brownies before slicing and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts for neat squares.

Can I make them nut-free?

Of course. I just skip the pecans or replace them with extra candy chunks or chocolate chips.

Conclusion

These Milky Way Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Brownies are every bit as indulgent as they sound — and then some. With layers of rich chocolate, creamy cheesecake, sweet caramel, crunchy pecans, and chewy Milky Way pieces, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser I find myself making again and again. Whether it’s for a celebration or a weeknight treat, one bite of these brownies and I’m reminded why they’re always worth making.

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