Inside BruCrew Life
menu icon
subscribe
search icon
×

Cheesecake Bars

By · PUBLISHED · Leave a Comment

Calling all cheesecake lovers! These easy cheesecake bars have a smooth layer of chocolate ganache that takes them to the next level. They're rich, creamy, and perfect for when you want a simple dessert that still feels a little fancy.

A square of cheesecake on a plate topped with chocolate and a raspberry.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Who doesn't love cheesecake? It's creamy and decadent, but making a full-size cheesecake can be a hassle due to all the steps required. Sometimes, I just don't have the time for all that!

That’s where cheesecake bars come to my rescue! This easy dessert gives you all the flavor and texture of classic cheesecake without the fuss. Just mix, pour, bake, and chill. Plus, they’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or those moments when you're craving something sweet and creamy.

You can easily change the flavors to fit your mood or the season. Rainbow bars are great for birthdays, chocolate cheesecake bars are a special treat, and lemon cheesecake bars are perfect for spring!

So the next time you need a quick and easy dessert, skip the springform pan and make a batch of cheesecake bars. Your sweet tooth will thank you! 

Why I Love 9x13 Cheesecake Bars

  • This recipe bakes so much faster than a traditional cheesecake, which is a big win when I’m short on time, which is always.
  • They look fancy enough for a party, but they’re actually super simple to make.
  • I love that I can make this easy recipe without a special springform pan. All you need are basic ingredients and a 9x13 baking dish.
  • These bars are my go-to for potlucks and parties. Or when I need a rich and creamy dessert!
...

Read More

Carrot Bundt Cake

By · PUBLISHED · 10 Comments

This easy Carrot Bundt Cake is packed with warm spices, shredded carrots, and crunchy pecans. Decorated with cream cheese frosting, it's the perfect cake for holiday dinners or whenever you need a sweet and cozy dessert!

A slice of carrot bundt cake on a white plate.

This carrot bundt cake was first shared in March 2017. The post was updated and republished in April 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Carrot Cake Bundt Cake

I love carrot cake, but I don't make it very often because I am the only one in our house who eats it. Most of the time, I order it when we go out to eat.

With spring in the air and Easter approaching, I can't stop thinking about this carrot cake loaf. I was planning to make it and share some with friends, but then I wondered how it would turn out as a bundt cake. Spoiler alert: It turned out fantastic!

I doubled the batter and added pecans and raisins for flavor and texture. And yes, I know raisins are controversial, but I love the chewiness they add to oatmeal raisin cookies and loaded carrot cake. If you’re not a fan, leave them out.

Of course, no bundt cake is complete without frosting. You can drizzle thick lines across the top or spread it all over the sides. I’ve done both, and honestly, it’s delicious either way.

Why I Love This Recipe

  • Moist & Flavorful: The shredded carrots keep the cake moist, and the warm spices give it that classic cozy flavor.
  • Great Texture: The combo of moist cake, crunchy pecans, and chewy raisins gives every bite something extra.
  • Beautiful Presentation: Bundt cakes look impressive with minimal effort. Just drizzle some frosting on top, and it’s party-ready!
  • Perfect for Spring and Easter: This seasonal favorite is just right for spring celebrations and holiday tables.
...

Read More

Marble Loaf Cake

By · PUBLISHED · Leave a Comment

This easy marble loaf cake is a chocolate and vanilla dream come true! It’s soft, sweet, and topped with a rich ganache that takes it over the top. Whether you're celebrating something special or craving something sweet, this moist pound cake hits the spot.

Sliced marble loaf cake with chocolate ganache on a white tray.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Starbucks Marble Cake

Over the years, I have recreated several Starbucks treats at home. A few of my favorites are lemon loaf, double chocolate brownies, and this salted caramel mocha.

Years ago, I used to buy marble cake from Starbucks, but they no longer sell it. Since this item was discontinued, I created my own version from scratch.

I tested this recipe multiple times to get it just right, and it was worth it. The dense crumb texture is moist and delicious and melts in your mouth. The best part is that it's incredibly easy to make at home. So, no more waiting in line at the coffee shop!

Why I Love This Recipe

A marble cake is the best of both worlds. Why choose between vanilla and chocolate when you can have both?

  • The cake starts with one batter. I love how easy it is to make the batter with my mixer and then split it into two bowls.
  • It is seriously delicious! It's super soft and has the perfect chocolate and vanilla flavors.
  • Marble cakes are so fun to serve. Because of the marble effect, no two cakes are ever the same. Get ready to impress your friends and family with gorgeous swirls.
...

Read More

Easter Cookie Cake

By · PUBLISHED · Leave a Comment

Our Easter Cookie Cake is soft, chewy, and so easy to make! The green frosting, candy eggs, and chocolate bunnies make this dessert a fun centerpiece for your holiday dinner.

A slice of chocolate chip cookie cake held up on a spatula.

This Easter cookie cake was first shared in March 2021. The post was updated and republished in April 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

As a teen, Friday nights meant roaming the mall with friends, sipping Orange Julius, and eating cookies from Great American Cookie Co. With Easter coming up, I made a cookie cake that brought back all those sweet memories.

Right now, I’m really into baking chocolate chip cookies. And cookie cakes are just one big chocolate chip cookie baked in a cake pan. 

The cool thing about a chocolate chip cookie cake is that it’s great for any holiday or party. It has a soft center and a slightly crunchy edge, and you can jazz it up with colored frosting, sprinkles, and candy. 

I had so much fun decorating this giant cookie for Easter with green frosting, mini eggs, and peanut butter bunnies!

...

Read More

Mini Blueberry Cheesecakes

By · PUBLISHED · 17 Comments

These mini blueberry cheesecakes have a sweet graham cracker crust, a creamy vanilla cheesecake layer, and a swirl of blueberry pie filling on top. They taste just as great as they look and are perfect for parties, picnics, holidays, or any fun occasion!

A mini blueberry cheesecake with a bite out of it showing the pie filling inside.

The post and recipe for mini blueberry cheesecakes were first published in March 2012. Both were updated and then republished in April 2025.

Blueberry Cheesecakes

As much as I love a classic cheesecake, making and baking one can be time-consuming. That's where mini cheesecakes come in handy. 

They're easy to make and incredibly convenient since they're baked in a muffin tin. Plus, they’re absolutely adorable and the perfect size to satisfy your sweet tooth! I usually make these mini peanut butter cheesecakes whenever I get the chance!

Lately, though, I've been completely obsessed with all things blueberry. So, when I discovered an extra can of blueberry pie filling in the pantry, I couldn't resist the urge to make mini blueberry cheesecakes for dessert.

Why I Love This Recipe

  • Perfect dessert for spring or summer! The smooth, creamy cheesecake with a juicy blueberry swirl makes these little treats impossible to resist.
  • Great for parties and picnics. Their small size makes them easy to transport and perfect for serving to party guests. Everyone loves a miniature dessert!
  • It's a versatile recipe. If you don't like blueberries, you can use any other fruit filling you like.
  • Easy to make ahead of time. Cheesecake needs time to chill, making it the perfect treat to prepare the day before a party or event.
...

Read More

Easter Egg Fudge

By · PUBLISHED · 32 Comments

This Easter Egg Fudge is pretty and delicious. With smooth, melt-in-your-mouth vanilla malt fudge and crunchy Robin Eggs, each bite has a good mix of texture and flavor. Plus, it's so easy to make!

Squares of Easter egg fudge on a cutting board.

This post and recipe were first published in April 2015. It was updated and republished in March 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Easy Easter Fudge

This time of year, I love to buy bags of pastel-colored robin eggs. We've already gone through two bags at home; it isn't even Easter yet. I didn't eat them… well, I didn't eat them directly, that is.

I turned the colorful chocolate eggs into Easter popcorn and white chocolate fudge. My husband, who usually doesn’t like sweets, took one bite and said it was amazing!

Crushing Easter candy with a wooden spoon is a lot of fun! My kids helped break the eggs with a rolling pin when I made this fudge. However, I had to watch them since they were having a bit too much fun. You want to aim for chunks, not dust.

I predict this robin egg fudge will vanish from your Easter celebrations. We've made it twice now, and both batches disappeared quickly.

Why I Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: This fudge comes together in minutes without a sugar thermometer or any other special tools.
  • Delicious Crunch and Flavor: Adding Robin eggs to this white chocolate fudge gives it a delightful crunch and flavor.
  • Fun Easter Treat: With pastel-colored candies, this fudge looks as good as it tastes. It's the perfect Easter gift or sweet treat for everyone's basket.
...

Read More

Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies

By · PUBLISHED · 36 Comments

These soft and puffy Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies are loaded with extra sprinkles and sweet cream cheese chips. Made with just a few ingredients, these colorful cookies are a "fun" addition to any event or party.

Sprinkle cookies on a white plate.

This post was first published in April 2014. The photos were updated, and it was republished in March 2025.

Sprinkle Cookies with Cake Mix

One of my favorite things to do with cake mix is to bake cookies. The best part is that you can use a different flavor each time, creating new and exciting treats. Over the years, our favorites have included cookies and cream cookies and red velvet cake mix cookies.

While cleaning my pantry the other day, I found a box of Funfetti cake mix. I also found a jar of colorful sprinkles and some cream cheese chips.

Immediately, I knew I had to bake a batch of cake cookies with sprinkles. Combining these ingredients felt like the perfect idea for a colorful spring treat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These cookies are bright and colorful and stay soft for days!
  • They are perfect for any celebration, making them a great addition to birthday parties, baby showers, or holidays.
  • You can customize the sprinkles to match any event!
...

Read More

Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls

By · PUBLISHED · 61 Comments

These chocolate chip cinnamon rolls are an easy and delicious way to start the morning. The sweet rolls have chocolate cream cheese frosting and are kid-approved in our house.

A frosted chocolate chip cinnamon roll cut in half.

The post for chocolate chip cinnamon rolls was first published in May 2014. It was updated and republished in March 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Cinnamon Rolls with Chocolate Chips

I love making no-yeast cinnamon rolls for a quick and delicious breakfast treat. My favorite part is not waiting for the dough to rise. You can make, bake, and dig into these yummy breakfast rolls in under an hour!

Over the years, I've experimented with different flavors. Some of our favorites include banana cinnamon rolls and apple butter rolls. The best part? You only need a bowl and a fork, so there are only a few dishes to clean up afterward! 

This time, I decided to add chocolate chips to the dough and a sweet chocolate icing on top. It was my best idea of the week! Pair it with a chocolate latte, and it's the perfect breakfast for the chocolate lovers in your life.

...

Read More

Ambrosia Fruit Salad

By · PUBLISHED · Leave a Comment

If you need a quick and easy fruit dish for your next dinner, this Ambrosia Fruit Salad is perfect. Just mix the canned fruit, marshmallows, and Cool Whip in a bowl, chill it until dinner, and get ready for a sweet, creamy dessert everyone will love.

Want more easy fruit salads? This orange fluff and this pistachio fluff are a few of our favorites.

A bowl of fruit salad mixed with Cool Whip on a blue towel.
[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Ambrosia with Cool Whip

We usually bring a fruit salad to holiday dinners. Sometimes, I switch it up with this easy ambrosia fruit salad. It’s creamy, sweet, and a fun twist on the classic!

The creamy Cool Whip and soft mini marshmallows make this recipe a hit at family gatherings. Our kids love the fluffy texture and bright colors. It’s sweet and fun and feels like dessert disguised as a side dish.

So, if you’re looking for an easy way to jazz up your holiday menu, try this light dessert. It might become one of your family's favorites, too.

Why I Love This Canned Fruit Salad

I've been making this creamy dish for years, and it’s easy to see why it’s still so popular. It’s light and sweet and brings back memories. I make it for everything from Easter brunch to summer cookouts, and it always disappears fast.

  • Kids and adults of all ages love this sweet side dish. 
  • The best part is how easy it is to make it with just a few simple ingredients.
  • It’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or even last-minute dinner parties. 
  • Although it is light and refreshing, it still manages to feel like a dessert!
...

Read More

Mocha Muffins

By · PUBLISHED · 27 Comments

If you love chocolate and coffee as much as we do, you will adore these mocha muffins! They’re simple to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for a quick breakfast or a sweet treat in the afternoon.

A close up of a chocolate chip mocha muffin on a pile of muffins.

This post was originally posted February 2012. The recipe was modified, and new photos were taken in April 2016. The post was updated and republished in March 2025.

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Chocolate Chip Mocha Muffins

My daughter and I love chocolate and coffee. Whether it's homemade chocolate chip brownies or a chocolate latte, we just can’t get enough.

So, I thought, why not combine the two into a delicious breakfast muffin? They vanished in just one day, so I knew it was a winning combination!

Each soft and fluffy muffin is filled with chocolate chips. They are perfect for breakfast with morning coffee or a quick afternoon snack. Plus, they stay moist for several days, but honestly, they never last that long here!

Why I Love This Recipe

These muffins are delicious right out of the oven, but they taste even better the next day as the flavors blend.

  • The batter for this simple recipe is easy to prepare, and no fancy ingredients are required!
  • Using coffee with chocolate brings out the rich chocolate flavor in baked goods.
  • These muffins use dark cocoa powder AND chocolate chips for double the chocolate goodness!
  • These soft and fluffy muffins are delicious on day one, but they actually get better the longer they sit.

Main Ingredients

Bowls of ingredients needed to make chocolate mocha muffins on a white board.

You can easily bake a batch of mocha muffins in your oven. The batter consists of only a few simple ingredients.

  • Unsalted Butter: Set the butter out before you start so it has time to soften.
  • Sugar: I like mixing regular white and brown sugar for a rich, moist texture. 
  • Large Egg: An egg helps hold the batter together and gives it a slight rise. 
  • Sour Cream: Gives the muffins a soft and moist texture. If you prefer plain Greek yogurt, use it.
  • Leavening Agents: Use baking soda and baking powder for the best rise.
  • Dark Cocoa Powder: Many different types of cocoa powder are available, but I prefer Hershey's dark cocoa. It gives the batter a rich, dark color and flavor.
  • Flour: These muffins call for all-purpose flour. To avoid adding too much, use the fluff and spoon method.
  • Milk: You can use any milk or dairy substitute you prefer.
  • Coffee: Strongly brewed coffee enhances the chocolate flavor. You can substitute milk if you do not want coffee flavor in your baked goods.
  • Mini Chocolate Chips: I prefer the mini ones because they spread the chocolate even more. For bigger chocolate pockets, you can use regular chips or chocolate chunks.

How To Make Mocha Muffins

This mocha muffin recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare. It's a great treat to curb your sweet cravings any time!

Four pictures collaged together showing how to make chocolate muffin batter.

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and creamy. Add the egg, vanilla, and sour cream, then beat again.

Stir the dry ingredients in a bowl. Alternately add the flour mixture and wet ingredients until it comes together, but do not overmix.

Gently stir the mini chocolate chips into the batter. Spoon the muffin batter evenly into 16 regular-sized muffin cups. Then, sprinkle the remaining chips on each muffin top.

Bake the muffins until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let them cool for a few minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.

Two mocha muffins on white papers.

Storage Recommendations

On the Counter: Store the leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 4-5 days. 

In the Freezer: Extra muffins can be frozen in a freezer-safe bag or container for several months. Just be sure to thaw them (either in the fridge or at room temperature) before serving! 

Tips and Tricks

  • Substitute other liquids. If you do not like coffee or do not want any caffeine in your baked goods, you can substitute milk or water for it.
  • Do NOT over-mix your batter. Overmixing the batter can make your muffins tough.
  • Skip the paper liners. Spray the muffin pan with nonstick baking spray, then use a paper towel to wipe out the excess before filling it with batter.
  • Fill them neatly. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan using a large cookie or ice cream scoop.
  • All ovens run differently. Before the timer goes off, check the muffins by inserting a toothpick in the center. They are done when the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
A white plate with a pile of chocolate chip mocha muffins on it.

More Chocolate Muffins

Do you love a recipe you tried from Inside BruCrew Life? 

Please leave a 5-star ⭐️ rating and a review in the comments section below. 

Recipe

A mocha muffin on white paper.

Mocha Muffins

Yield: 16 muffins
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 16 minutes
Total Time: 31 minutes

Two times the chocolate makes these Chocolate Mocha Muffins the perfect breakfast choice to get you going in the morning. Grab a cup of coffee and a muffin before heading out the door.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ⅓ cup milk
  • ⅓ cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon table salt
  • ½ cup dark cocoa powder
  • 2 cups all purpose flour (240g)
  • 1 ¼ cups mini chocolate chips, divided

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place 16 cupcake liners in two cupcake pans.
  2. Beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the egg, sour cream, and vanilla and beat until creamy.
  3. Sift the dry ingredients and add them alternately with the milk and coffee, beating slowly. Do not overmix.
  4. Stir in 1 cup mini chocolate chips by gently. Spoon the batter evenly into the cupcake liners.
  5. Sprinkle the tops of the batter with the remaining chocolate chips. Bake for 15-17 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
  6. Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 2-3 minutes. Then, place the muffins on a wire rack to cool completely. Store in a sealed container.

Notes

  • Substitute other liquids. If you do not like coffee or do not want any caffeine in your baked goods, you can substitute milk or water for it.
  • Do NOT over-mix your batter. Overmixing the batter can make your muffins tough.
  • Skip the paper liners. Spray the muffin pan with nonstick baking spray, then use a paper towel to wipe out the excess before filling it with batter.
  • Fill them neatly. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan using a large cookie or ice cream scoop.
  • All ovens run differently. Before the timer goes off, check the muffins by inserting a toothpick in the center. They are done when the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  • Place a muffin in the microwave for 10 seconds for that fresh from the oven taste.

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Nutrition Information:
Yield: 16 Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 251Total Fat: 13gSaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 36mgSodium: 287mgCarbohydrates: 31gFiber: 2gSugar: 16gProtein: 4g

Nutrition facts are an estimate and are not guaranteed to be accurate. If you need special diet advice, please see a registered dietician.

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

© Jocelyn
Cuisine: American / Category: Muffins and Scones