Brownie Cheesecake Recipe
Imagine the best of both worlds: a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a luscious, creamy cheesecake layer. That’s exactly what Brownie Cheesecake promises—a heavenly union of silky smooth cheesecake sitting on top of decadent chocolate goodness. With every bite, you get contrasting textures and flavors that play off each other in the most delightful way. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just want a show-stopping dessert for your family, this Brownie Cheesecake is guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to an unforgettable Brownie Cheesecake is using high-quality, simple ingredients that stand out. Each one plays a crucial role, from guaranteeing maximum chocolate flavor to creating that perfectly creamy swirl. Don’t skip any of these; they’re what makes this dessert truly shine.
- Unsalted Butter: Gives the brownie layer richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Dark Chocolate: Opt for a good-quality bar—it intensifies the chocolate flavor in the brownies.
- Large Eggs: Essential for binding everything together and creating a fudgy crumb.
- Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create the perfect structure for both layers.
- Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a subtle caramel note to the brownie base.
- Plain Flour: Just enough for structure, keeping the brownies soft and not cakey.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Boosts the chocolate flavor, making the brownie base even more decadent.
- Salt: A pinch sharpens all the flavors and balances out the sweetness.
- Cream Cheese: The heart of the cheesecake layer—make sure it’s softened for a smooth filling.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and an inviting aroma to the cheesecake topping.
- Sour Cream: Brings a hint of tang that keeps the cheesecake from being too sweet.
- Heavy Cream: Lends the cheesecake a delicious, creamy finish.
How to Make Brownie Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Layer
Let’s kick things off with the richest part: the brownie base. Melt the unsalted butter and dark chocolate together—either gently in the microwave or on the stovetop—until smooth and glossy. Whisk in the eggs, both the granulated and brown sugar, then the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until just combined. Resist the temptation to overmix; this is your ticket to that perfect fudgy texture. Once blended, pour the batter into your greased cake tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes—it should be just starting to set, with a gentle wobble in the center.
Step 2: Whip Up the Cheesecake Layer
Now for the creamy, dreamy cheesecake. Beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth, then add in the sugar and vanilla, beating until well combined. Next, mix in the sour cream and flour, followed by the heavy cream which will make the topping luxuriously silky. Spread this cheesecake mixture carefully over the still-warm brownie base. The contrast between warm brownies and cool cheesecake batter helps create a beautiful marbled effect once baked.
Step 3: Bake the Layers Together
Return your masterpiece to the oven and bake for another 30 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for the cheesecake layer to be mostly set, with just a slight jiggle in the middle—a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter. Trust the process: the cake will firm up dramatically as it cools.
Step 4: Chill and Slice
Patience is key! Let your Brownie Cheesecake cool at room temperature before transferring it to the fridge for at least 4 hours, or even overnight if you can wait that long. This rest lets the flavors meld and the texture set perfectly. When you’re finally ready to slice, run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe it clean between cuts for gorgeously neat servings.
How to Serve Brownie Cheesecake
Garnishes
The right garnish turns an already-stunning Brownie Cheesecake into a true showpiece. Think whipped cream dollops, fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder. Each one adds a lovely accent and a hint of color or texture that makes every slice look irresistibly tempting.
Side Dishes
Brownie Cheesecake is decadent on its own, but you can make it a full dessert experience with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. For an extra-special touch, pair it with a handful of tart berries or a fresh fruit salad to contrast the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling extra? Try slicing your Brownie Cheesecake into small bars for a party platter, or cut them into bite-sized cubes and skewer with fresh fruit for a modern dessert board. You can even layer chunks in dessert jars with whipped cream for grab-and-go treats—let your imagination run wild!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftover Brownie Cheesecake slices in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They’re best enjoyed within 4 days, and in my opinion, they get even better as the flavors mature!
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when a craving hits.
Reheating
While Brownie Cheesecake is usually served cold, you can gently bring a slice to room temperature if you prefer a softer bite. Avoid microwaving, which can make the layers separate; letting it sit on the counter for 20–30 minutes does the trick.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate in the brownie layer?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give you a sweeter, milder brownie base. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor might be less intense, so if you’re a chocoholic, dark chocolate is still the winner.
Why does my cheesecake top crack?
Cracks happen when the cheesecake is overbaked or cools too quickly. To avoid this, bake until just set, then let it cool gradually before chilling. Luckily, a few cracks won’t hurt the taste and are easily hidden by garnishes!
Can I make Brownie Cheesecake gluten-free?
Yes, swap the plain flour in both layers for your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. The dessert turns out just as delicious—nobody will notice the difference!
How do I know when the cheesecake layer is done?
The center should jiggle slightly when you give the pan a gentle shake and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with just moist crumbs. It will continue to set as it cools, so don’t wait for it to be completely firm in the oven.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Go for it! Double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, watching the baking time as it may need an extra 5–10 minutes. It’s perfect for potlucks and celebrations.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that delivers pure joy in every bite, you really have to try this Brownie Cheesecake. It’s the ultimate combination for chocolate and cheesecake lovers alike, and it never fails to impress a crowd. I hope you have as much fun baking and sharing it as I do!
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Brownie Cheesecake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 cheesecake (about 8–10 servings) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate decadence with this Brownie Cheesecake recipe. A luscious fusion of rich, fudgy brownie and creamy cheesecake layers that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 oz dark chocolate
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup plain flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Cheesecake Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp plain flour
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the brownie layer: Melt butter and dark chocolate, then mix in eggs, sugars, flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Pour into a cake tin and bake for 15-20 minutes.
- Make the cheesecake layer: Beat cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, sour cream, flour, and heavy cream until smooth. Pour over the partially baked brownie layer.
- Bake the cheesecake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until set with moist crumbs on a toothpick.
- Chill: Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Slice and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: Brownie Cheesecake, Cheesecake Recipe, Fudgy Brownie, Decadent Dessert
