Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“Have you ever found yourself caught in the delightful dilemma of choosing between rich, fudgey brownies and silky-smooth cheesecake? That craving stops here with my Brownie Cheesecake, a heavenly hybrid that marries these two beloved desserts into one unforgettable treat. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly simple to whip up—all it takes is a little love, some kitchen staples, and about an hour of your time. The magical combination of a dense brownie base topped with creamy cheesecake will have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Ready to elevate your dessert game and impress your friends and family? Let’s dive in!” Why Is Brownie Cheesecake So Irresistible? Decadent mixture: This recipe combines two of your favorite desserts into one rich slice of heaven. Fudgy base: The dense brownie layer delivers a texture that beautifully contrasts with the creamy cheesecake. Easily customizable: Add a swirl of raspberry sauce for a pop of flavor, or top with a dollop of whipped cream to make it extra special. Time-saving: With just about an hour of prep and bake time, you can have this show-stopping dessert ready in no time! Crowd-pleasing delight: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, this Brownie Cheesecake is sure to impress your guests—just like my Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake or Chocolate Protein Brownie. Easy to store: Make it a day ahead to let flavors meld, or keep it chilled for satisfying snacking throughout the week! Brownie Cheesecake Ingredients • To create your luscious brownie cheesecake, gather these delightful essentials: For the Brownie Layer Unsalted Butter – adds moisture and richness; plant-based butter works for a dairy-free version. Dark Chocolate – provides deep chocolate flavor; semi-sweet chocolate is a tasty alternative. Eggs (2 large) – binds the ingredients while adding richness; use a flax egg for an egg-free version. Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup) – sweetens your brownie layer; adjust to your taste preference. Brown Sugar (1/4 cup) – contributes moisture and depth; either light or dark works well. Plain Flour (1/2 cup + 1 tbsp) – gives structure; gluten-free flour blends can be used. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (1/4 cup) – intensifies chocolate flavor; ensure it’s unsweetened for the best result. Salt (1/4 tsp) – balances out sweetness; essential for enhancing flavors in baked goods. For the Cheesecake Layer Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened) – the key component for creaminess; opt for dairy-free cream cheese for vegan options. Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – adds depth of flavor; while optional, it’s highly recommended. Sour Cream (1/4 cup) – adds tanginess and moisture; Greek yogurt is a great substitute. Heavy Cream (1/4 cup) – enriches the cheesecake layer; full-fat coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free option. This Brownie Cheesecake melds indulgence and simplicity that will have everyone dreaming of seconds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brownie Cheesecake Step 1: Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven is at the perfect temperature for baking once you’re ready. While it heats, gather all your ingredients for the Brownie Cheesecake, and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it generously with butter or cooking spray. Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter In a medium saucepan, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter and 4 oz. of dark chocolate together over low heat, stirring until smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and whisk in 2 large eggs and both ½ cup granulated sugar and ¼ cup brown sugar until the mixture is shiny. Sift in ½ cup plus 1 tablespoon of plain flour, ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt, then mix until just combined. Step 3: Bake the Brownie Layer Pour the brownie batter into your prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly using a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 20–25 minutes. The brownie layer should be set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center for that fudgy texture. After baking, let it cool for a few minutes while you prepare the cheesecake layer. Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer In a large mixing bowl, beat 8 oz. of softened cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Gradually add in ½ cup granulated sugar, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ¼ cup of sour cream, and ¼ cup of heavy cream. Mix thoroughly until your cheesecake batter is luscious and well combined, without any lumps. Step 5: Combine Layers and Bake Once the brownie layer has cooled slightly, pour the cheesecake batter over the top, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Bake the Brownie Cheesecake for 40–45 minutes. The edges should be set, but the center will have a slight jiggle. This ensures that the cheesecake remains creamy and delicious. Step 6: Cooling Process After baking, turn off the oven and leave the Brownie Cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for about 1 hour. This gradual cooling helps prevent cracks on the surface. After it cools, carefully remove it from the oven and transfer it to cool completely at room temperature. Step 7: Chill in the Refrigerator Once the cheesecake is at room temperature, cover it with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an incredibly rich and decadent Brownie Cheesecake that’s ready to delight your taste buds. Brownie Cheesecake Variations & Substitutions Get ready to unleash your creativity and make this Brownie Cheesecake truly your own! Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a high-quality dairy-free cream cheese and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a creamy texture that everyone can enjoy. Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of plain flour to make a deliciously inclusive dessert that everyone can indulge in without worries! Vegan: Replace eggs with a flax egg and use plant-based butter. With a little love and these simple switches, you’ll have a vegan-friendly delight! Flavor Boost: Incorporate a swirl of caramel or raspberry sauce into the cheesecake layer before baking. This swirls in an added flavor dimension that elevates your dessert to gourmet status. Candy Crush: Fold in some crushed Oreo cookies or your favorite chocolate candies into the cheesecake batter for a fun crunchy twist! Imagine each bite bursting with surprise! Additional Toppings: Top your finished cheesecake with whipped cream, chocolate ganache, or fresh berries for an elegant presentation and an extra yum factor, just like with my delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake. Chocolate Variants: Feel adventurous? Use white chocolate in the cheesecake for a richer, sweeter finish that can complement the fudgy brownie base beautifully. Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for an extra crunch and delightful earthy notes. It’s an easy way to integrate textures! Feel free to mix and match these ideas to suit your taste buds! Each variation offers a delightful twist that encourages flavor exploration and personalization! What to Serve with Brownie Cheesecake Pair your Brownie Cheesecake with these delightful accompaniments to create a truly memorable dessert experience. Fresh Berries: A handful of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries brings a burst of freshness, contrasting beautifully with rich cheesecake. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream adds an airy softness that complements the dense textures of the brownie and cheesecake layers. Chocolate Drizzle: A rich chocolate sauce enhances the dessert’s indulgence, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth craving. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over each slice for a sweet, buttery finish that elevates the chocolate flavors. Espresso or Coffee: The bitterness of a bold espresso or coffee balances the sweetness, making every bite even more enjoyable. Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves make for a vibrant, aromatic garnish that adds a refreshing touch to every slice. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream scooped alongside the cheesecake takes dessert to a whole new level of indulgence. Chocolate Milkshake: For a decadent pairing, a thick chocolate milkshake accentuates the chocolate notes in the Brownie Cheesecake. Vanilla Yogurt: A dollop of creamy vanilla yogurt provides a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness, making it even more enjoyable. Lemon Sorbet: This zesty, refreshing sorbet cleanses the palate and balances the sweetness of the dessert, making for a light finish. How to Store and Freeze Brownie Cheesecake Fridge: Store your Brownie Cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keeping it properly wrapped will help preserve its deliciously creamy texture. Freezer: If you’d like to keep it longer, freeze slices of the Brownie Cheesecake in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Make-Ahead: This dessert actually tastes even better the day after baking, so feel free to make it a day in advance to let the flavors meld. Reheating: For a warm treat, briefly microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying. Expert Tips for Brownie Cheesecake Cool Carefully: Allow the brownie layer to cool slightly before adding the cheesecake batter to prevent mixing and ensure distinct layers. Monitor Baking: Bake the cheesecake until the center is slightly jiggly; this avoids overbaking and creates a creamy texture that enhances the brownie cheesecake. Oven Cooling: Let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven with the door ajar to prevent temperature shock and cracking on the surface. Slice Smoothly: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices; this prevents the creamy cheesecake from sticking to the knife. Make Ahead: Consider making your brownie cheesecake a day in advance for maximum flavor as the ingredients meld together beautifully in the fridge. Make Ahead Options These Brownie Cheesecakes are perfect for meal prep and can save you time during busy occasions! You can prep the brownie layer up to 24 hours in advance by baking it and then refrigerating it once cooled. When you’re ready to assemble, simply blend the cheesecake ingredients and pour the batter over the chilled brownie layer. For the best results, let the assembled cheesecake chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld, ensuring it remains just as delicious. Remember, chill it properly to maintain creamy texture, and enjoy effortlessly decadent slices that are ready to impress! Brownie Cheesecake Recipe FAQs What type of chocolate should I use for the Brownie Cheesecake? Absolutely! I recommend using dark chocolate for a deeper chocolate flavor, but semi-sweet chocolate can also work beautifully if you prefer a milder sweetness. Just ensure it’s good quality chocolate for the best results! How long can I store Brownie Cheesecake in the fridge? Your Brownie Cheesecake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to use an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to maintain its creamy texture and flavor. Can I freeze Brownie Cheesecake? Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual slices of the Brownie Cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in airtight containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture. Why did my cheesecake crack on top? Very! Cracks can happen if the cheesecake is baked at too high a temperature or if it cools too quickly. To prevent this, make sure to bake it gently and allow it to cool gradually with the oven door slightly ajar. A water bath can also help maintain even heat during baking. Can I make the Brownie Cheesecake ahead of time? Definitely! Making it a day in advance not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Just ensure you cover it well and refrigerate it after baking. Are there any dietary substitutions I can make for allergies? Of course! If you need to avoid dairy, simply use vegan cream cheese and swap traditional butter for a plant-based option. For egg allergies, you can replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for each egg needed, creating a delightful dairy-free and egg-free treat. Divine Brownie Cheesecake for the Ultimate Chocolate Fix This Brownie Cheesecake is a heavenly hybrid of rich, fudgey brownies and silky-smooth cheesecake, perfect for any dessert lover. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrCooling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertsCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Brownie Layer1/2 cup Unsalted Butter adds moisture and richness4 oz Dark Chocolate provides deep chocolate flavor2 Eggs (large) binds ingredients and adds richness1/2 cup Granulated Sugar sweetens your brownie layer1/4 cup Brown Sugar contributes moisture and depth1/2 cup Plain Flour gives structure1 tbsp Plain Flour1/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder intensifies chocolate flavor1/4 tsp Salt balances out sweetnessCheesecake Layer8 oz Cream Cheese (softened) key component for creaminess1 tsp Vanilla Extract adds depth of flavor1/4 cup Sour Cream adds tanginess and moisture1/4 cup Heavy Cream enriches the cheesecake layer Equipment 9-inch springform pan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it.Melt ½ cup unsalted butter and 4 oz dark chocolate together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in 2 eggs, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ¼ cup brown sugar.Sift in ½ cup plus 1 tablespoon of plain flour, ¼ cup cocoa powder, and ¼ tsp salt. Mix until just combined.Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes.Let the brownie layer cool while preparing the cheesecake layer.Beat 8 oz softened cream cheese until smooth, then add ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, ¼ cup sour cream, and ¼ cup heavy cream. Mix until well combined.Pour the cheesecake batter over the brownie layer and bake for 40-45 minutes.Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 1 hour to cool.Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 30gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesAllow the brownie layer to cool slightly before adding the cheesecake batter to prevent mixing. Bake until the center is slightly jiggly for a creamy texture. Consider making it a day in advance for maximum flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
