Brownie Cheesecake
Brownie Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert mashup, combining two beloved treats into one decadent bite. With a rich, fudgy brownie base and a silky, tangy cheesecake layer on top, it’s a show-stopping dessert perfect for chocolate lovers and cheesecake fans alike. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just indulging your sweet tooth, this luxurious, layered treat delivers comfort and elegance in every forkful. Ideal for make-ahead prep and easy to customize, it’s a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any dessert table.
Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Hand or stand mixer
- Whisk and spatula
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Brownie Base:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make Brownie Layer
- In a bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla. Mix in cocoa powder, flour, and salt until just combined. Pour into the pan and smooth out. Bake for 12–15 minutes, then let cool slightly.
Step 3: Make Cheesecake Layer
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and mix. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla and sour cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Layer and Bake
- Pour cheesecake mixture over the slightly cooled brownie base. Tap pan gently to remove air bubbles. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until center is set but slightly jiggly.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
- Let cool at room temperature for 1 hour. Then chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove from pan, slice, and serve as-is or topped with ganache, whipped cream, or berries.
Notes
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Especially the cheesecake layer — overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cracks during baking.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the cream cheese, eggs, and sour cream are at room temp for the smoothest filling texture.
- Bake in a Water Bath (Optional): For an ultra-smooth top and even bake, wrap the springform pan in foil and place it in a water bath (bain-marie) in the oven.
- Chill Time is Key: Chilling for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) allows the layers to set properly and enhances flavor.
- Customize with Add-ins: You can stir chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the brownie layer for added texture.
- Clean Slicing Tip: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it between slices for clean cuts.
- Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also freezes well — wrap tightly and store for up to 1 month.