Brownie Cheesecake

Brownie Cheesecake combines the richness of a chocolate brownie with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake. With two distinct layers that complement each other perfectly, this dessert is sure to impress!

Brownie Cheesecake: A Delicious Dessert Hybrid

Slices of Brownie Cheesecake with a creamy layer and fudgy brownie base.

Do you love both brownies and cheesecake? Why settle for one when you can enjoy both? Brownie Cheesecake combines the best elements of these two desserts into a decadent treat you won’t want to miss. Imagine a rich, chocolate brownie base topped with a creamy, tangy cheesecake layer. Every bite is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making this dessert a real showstopper. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just want to indulge, Brownie Cheesecake is the dessert that delivers both elegance and comfort.

How to make a Brownie Cheesecake

The Brownie Layer

The first thing we’re going to make is the brownie layer. We’ll bake this in the cake tin first, then add the cheesecake batter on top and bake it again.

DON’T WORRY, the brownie does not end up overbaked or dry – it stays fudgy and rich.

Ingredients for the Brownie Layer:

  • Unsalted butter – 1/2
  • cupDark chocolate – 4 oz
  • Eggs – 2
  • largeSugar – 1/2 cup granulated, 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • Plain flour – 1/2 cup
  • Cocoa powder – 1/4 cup unsweetened
  • Salt – 1/4 tsp

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the unsalted butter and dark chocolate together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave. Stir until smooth.

Step 2: Whisk in the sugars, followed by the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix well until the batter is smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir gently to combine. The batter should be thick and rich.

Step 4: Pour the brownie batter into a greased and lined 9-inch springform cake pan. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 5: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the brownie is just set but still soft in the center. You want it fudgy, not fully baked through.

Step 6: Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the cheesecake layer.

The Cheesecake Layer

For the cheesecake layer, we’re making a baked cheesecake. Baked cheesecakes traditionally include eggs, which give them their classic texture.

But here’s a little secret: I make a baked cheesecake without eggs! You might be wondering why I still bake it, but trust me, baking changes the texture completely – it makes the cheesecake layer smooth, creamy, and decadent.

Ingredients for the Cheesecake Layer:

  • Cream cheese – 8 oz, softened
  • Sugar – 1/2 cup granulated
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Sour cream – 1/4 cup
  • Plain flour – 1 tbsp
  • Heavy cream – 1/4 cup

Instructions

Step 1: Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Sift in the flour and mix gently until smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Pour the cheesecake batter over the slightly cooled brownie base. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

Step 5: Place the pan back in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for another 40-45 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 6: Once baked, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for an hour. This helps prevent cracking.

Step 7: Let the cheesecake cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to set and firm up.

Why Brownie Cheesecake is a Must Try

The combination of fudgy brownies and smooth cheesecake creates the ultimate texture contrast. The rich, dense brownie pairs perfectly with the creamy, slightly tangy cheesecake layer. Every bite is a dream!

Fudgy Brownie Layer: The brownie stays moist and dense, so you get that indulgent chocolate flavor.

Creamy Cheesecake: The cheesecake layer, while baked, remains creamy and smooth. It’s rich, not overly sweet, and adds the perfect balance to the brownie.

Tips for Success

Close-up of a Brownie Cheesecake, featuring a creamy cheesecake layer with a rich, fudgy brownie base.
  1. Don’t overbake the brownie layer: You want it to stay fudgy, so keep an eye on it in the oven. The toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, rather than being completely clean.
  2. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven: This step helps prevent cracks and keeps the texture smooth.
  3. Chill the cheesecake: Allow the cheesecake to set by refrigerating it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for the best results.

Final Thoughts

Brownie Cheesecake is the best of both worlds! It combines the deep, chocolatey richness of brownies with the smooth, creamy indulgence of cheesecake. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because, this dessert will be a showstopper. Give it a try, and you’ll be hooked after the first bite!

Key Takeaways

  • The brownie layer stays fudgy and rich.
  • The cheesecake layer is creamy and smooth.
  • It’s important to bake the brownie layer first and let the cheesecake cool in the oven to avoid cracking.
  • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours for the perfect texture.

For expert tips on creating the perfect cheesecake base, including how to avoid common pitfalls like cracking, check out The Spruce Eats.

Close-up of a Brownie Cheesecake, featuring a creamy cheesecake layer with a rich, fudgy brownie base.

Brownie Cheesecake

Chef Bella
This Brownie Cheesecake combines a fudgy brownie base with a creamy, smooth cheesecake layer. It's the perfect dessert for anyone craving both chocolate and cheesecake, with an easy-to-follow recipe that ensures a rich and indulgent treat.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10 servings

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 to 350°F (175°C).
  • Make the brownie layer: Melt butter and dark chocolate together, 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 for 30-35 minutes until set with moist crumbs on a toothpick.
  • Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  • Slice and enjoy!

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