If you’re looking for a showstopping dessert that combines two of life’s greatest pleasures, this Brownie Cheesecake is your answer. Imagine the fudgy richness of a classic brownie melded with the creamy tang of cheesecake, all in one decadent slice! This recipe isn’t just gorgeous on your dessert table—it’s the kind of treat that’ll have friends and family begging for seconds (and the recipe). Let’s dive into how to make your new obsession: Brownie Cheesecake.

Brownie Cheesecake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Brownie Cheesecake is how a handful of familiar ingredients can work together to create something absolutely unforgettable. Each element in the list below isn’t just a pantry staple—it’s essential for that crave-worthy taste and perfect texture.

Butter, melted: Makes the brownie base ultra-rich and gives each bite its fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the brownie and cheesecake layers for the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Cocoa powder, unsweetened: Delivers deep chocolate flavor without adding extra sweetness—choose a high quality cocoa for best results.
Baking powder: A little lift goes a long way in keeping the brownie base from getting too dense.
All-purpose flour: Provides just the right amount of structure to hold up the creamy cheesecake layer.
Eggs: Give body and richness to both layers; room temperature eggs blend more smoothly for that dreamy texture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake layer and ties everything together.
Cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake layer—smooth, tangy, and lusciously creamy.
Sour cream (optional): Adds a subtle tang and extra richness to the cheesecake layer—totally worth it if you have some on hand.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and bumps up all the other flavors beautifully.

How to Make Brownie Cheesecake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9-inch baking pan and either grease it generously with butter or line it with parchment paper. This ensures your Brownie Cheesecake will lift out with ease, and you’ll get those picture-perfect slices every time.

Step 2: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder until the mixture is glossy and thick. Add in the eggs, beating until the batter turns smooth and shiny. Gently stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt, making sure not to overmix—it’s the secret to a fudgy, not cakey, brownie base. Pour this rich batter into your prepared pan, spreading it into an even layer.

Step 3: Bake the Brownie Base

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for the brownies to be just set, with a toothpick coming out with a few moist crumbs. This creates the ultimate foundation for the cheesecake topping—gooey but sturdy enough to hold its own. Let the brownie layer cool slightly while you whip up the next component.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture

While the brownie base is cooling, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream (if using). Keep mixing until completely smooth and creamy—a stand mixer or hand mixer works wonders here. You want a lump-free cheesecake layer for that signature silky finish.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Cheesecake Layer

Pour the cheesecake mixture right over the (still slightly warm) brownie base. Use a spatula to smooth out the top, ensuring even coverage. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C), then return the pan to the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the cheesecake layer is set but the center still has a gentle jiggle. This gives the cheesecake that luscious, velvety quality everyone loves.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Let your Brownie Cheesecake cool at room temperature before transferring it to the fridge. Give it at least four hours (overnight is even better) to chill and set completely. This patience pays off in perfectly clean slices and that irresistible combination of flavors and textures!

How to Serve Brownie Cheesecake

Garnishes

Dress up your Brownie Cheesecake with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for a touch of elegance. A swirl of whipped cream and a handful of fresh berries add color and freshness, making each slice even more special. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle warm chocolate or caramel sauce on top right before serving.

Side Dishes

This dessert truly shines on its own, but a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of espresso pairs beautifully with each rich, creamy bite. If you’re serving a crowd, a bowl of lightly sweetened berry compote on the side lets guests add a little something extra to their slice.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, you can cut the Brownie Cheesecake into cute squares or bars for easy-to-grab treats. Want a dramatic presentation? Serve individual slices on a pool of raspberry coulis or with a decorative swirl of melted chocolate. Mini cheesecakes baked in muffin tins are a fun, portable twist for picnics or potlucks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Brownie Cheesecake keeps well in the fridge, tightly covered, for up to five days. Simply wrap the pan with plastic or transfer individual slices to an airtight container. The flavors deepen and meld with time, making those sneaky fridge trips totally worth it.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! Let the Brownie Cheesecake cool completely, then slice and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. When a chocolate craving hits, you’ll have dessert ready to go.

Reheating

For the best texture, let frozen cheesecake slices thaw overnight in the fridge. If you love your brownie layer a tad warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Just enough to soften things slightly without melting the creamy cheesecake top.

FAQs

Can I use boxed brownie mix instead of making the base from scratch?

Absolutely! While making your own brownie base adds a made-from-scratch touch to your Brownie Cheesecake, a high-quality boxed mix is a convenient shortcut. Just bake as directed, then continue with the cheesecake layer as outlined above.

What’s the best way to get clean slices?

For those beautiful, bakery-worthy slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water (then wiped dry) between each cut. Chilling the Brownie Cheesecake thoroughly before slicing also helps keep the layers neat and defined.

Can I add mix-ins to the brownie layer?

You can definitely get creative! Fold in a handful of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even swirls of caramel or peanut butter to the brownie batter for an extra flavor boost without affecting the overall texture.

How do I know when the cheesecake layer is done?

The cheesecake is ready when the edges are set and the center still has a little jiggle. Avoid overbaking—cheesecake always sets up more as it chills in the refrigerator and you’ll be rewarded with a luxuriously creamy texture.

Is sour cream necessary in the cheesecake layer?

If you have sour cream on hand, it adds a wonderful tang and extra creaminess to the cheesecake. If not, you can leave it out and your Brownie Cheesecake will still turn out deliciously smooth and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about digging your fork into a slice of homemade Brownie Cheesecake. It’s rich, it’s crowd-pleasing, and it’s surprisingly easy for such a stunning treat. If you’re looking to add a new favorite to your dessert repertoire, this recipe is a must-bake. I can’t wait for you to try it, savor every bite, and share the joy with your favorite people!

Brownie Cheesecake Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 25 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this decadent Brownie Cheesecake recipe. A rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a creamy cheesecake layer creates a heavenly combination that will satisfy all your sweet cravings.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch baking pan.
Make the Brownie Base: Mix melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and eggs. Add flour and baking powder, then spread the batter in the pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes.
Prepare the Cheesecake Layer: Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sour cream. Pour over the cooled brownie base.
Bake: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 35–40 minutes until set but slightly jiggly.
Cool and Chill: Let the brownie cheesecake cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.